The Truth About Eco-Friendly Menstrual Pads: Are They Worth It?
As sustainability and
eco-conscious living continue to rise in popularity, many people are opting for
reusable menstrual products as an alternative to disposable options. Among
these, cloth pads have gained widespread attention for their comfort, eco-friendliness,
and long-term cost savings. Whether you're interested in a DIY project or
trying to find the best cloth pads available on the market, this comprehensive
guide will provide all the information you need. From making your own cloth
pads to selecting the right ones for your unique needs, you’ll discover how
cloth pads can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Cloth pads are an excellent
alternative to traditional single-use menstrual products like disposable pads
and tampons. There are numerous reasons why more people are making the switch.
One of the primary benefits is that cloth pads are eco-friendly. Disposable
pads contribute significantly to landfill waste and can take hundreds of years
to decompose. In contrast, cloth pads are reusable for several years, which
drastically reduces their environmental impact. As part of the zero-waste
movement, using cloth pads eliminates the need for plastic packaging and
non-biodegradable materials commonly found in disposable products.
Cloth pads also offer significant
cost savings. While the initial investment in reusable cloth pads might seem
higher than buying disposables, the pads quickly pay for themselves over time
because they can be reused for years. Users also report that cloth pads tend to
be more comfortable than their plastic counterparts, providing greater
breathability and reducing irritation or rashes. Moreover, if you choose to
make your own cloth pads, you can completely customise the absorbency, shape,
and fabric to suit your specific preferences.
One of the best aspects of cloth
pads is the ability to make them yourself, especially if you enjoy DIY
projects. Crafting your own cloth pads can be a rewarding and cost-effective
solution. To get started, you’ll need several materials, including a soft,
absorbent top layer made from fabrics like cotton flannel, bamboo, or jersey
knit. The absorbent core can be constructed using layers of cotton terry, hemp,
or even old towels or fleece. For the backing layer, a waterproof fabric like
PUL (Polyurethane Laminate) or fleece is essential to prevent leaks. Fleece is
breathable, while PUL provides a waterproof barrier but is less breathable. You
will also need plastic snaps or buttons to secure the pad around your
underwear, as well as basic sewing tools such as scissors, pins, fabric
markers, thread, and a sewing machine.
To make cloth pads, you can start
by finding or creating a sewing pattern. Many free patterns are available
online, or, if you’re confident in your sewing skills, you can create your own
based on your desired size and shape. Once you have your pattern, use it to cut
out the top layer, absorbent core, and backing layer. Assemble the layers by
placing the absorbent core between the top and backing fabrics and pinning them
together. Sew around the edges, leaving a small gap to turn the fabric right
side out. After turning the pad right side out, topstitch around the entire pad
to close the gap and secure the layers. Finally, add plastic snaps to the wings
so the pad can be fastened securely around your underwear.
If DIY projects aren’t your
style, or if you’re looking to buy cloth pads, the market offers a wide variety
of options. Several factors should be considered when choosing the best cloth
pads for your needs, such as absorbency, fabrics, size, shape, and fastenings.
Cloth pads, like disposables, come in different absorbency levels. Liners are
ideal for light flow or spotting, while regular pads work well for medium flow
during the day. Heavy-flow pads are designed for overnight use or for those who
experience heavier periods.
When it comes to fabric choices,
many options are available. Flannel is a popular choice for the top layer
because it is soft and absorbent. Bamboo is known for its softness,
antibacterial properties, and excellent absorbency, making it an ideal fabric for
cloth pads. Hemp is another highly absorbent material that is often used for
heavy-flow pads, while cotton jersey is smooth and breathable, making it
perfect for those with sensitive skin. The backing layer, which helps prevent
leaks, is often made from PUL or fleece.
Cloth pads come in various sizes
and shapes, typically measured by length. Shorter pads are suitable for light
flow, while longer pads provide more coverage and protection for heavy flow or
overnight use. Some cloth pads are designed with extra wings or contoured
shapes to ensure a better fit and to prevent leaks. Additionally, most cloth
pads use snaps to secure them around the underwear, as snaps tend to be more
durable and comfortable than Velcro, which can wear out over time and irritate
the skin. Pads with wings offer extra protection against leaks and shifting,
whereas wingless designs may feel less secure.
Several well-known brands produce
eco-friendly cloth pads, each offering unique features in terms of comfort,
absorbency, and design. GladRags, for instance, is one of the most well-known
cloth pad brands. They offer pads in various sizes and absorbency levels, with
fun patterns and kits for beginners. Lunapads, now rebranded as Aisle, is
another popular brand offering a range of organic cotton pads with
leak-resistant layers. These pads are particularly great for heavy flow and
overnight use. Tree Hugger Cloth Pads are renowned for their soft bamboo velour
top layer and their commitment to eco-conscious initiatives, such as planting
trees. Party In My Pants is a brand known for its quirky designs and slim,
lightweight pads that still provide excellent absorbency.
If you're new to cloth pads,
transitioning can seem overwhelming at first. There are a few tips that can
make the process easier. Pre-washing new pads a few times before use can
increase their absorbency. When you're out and about, store used pads in a waterproof
wet bag until you're ready to wash them. On heavier flow days, you can layer
two pads together or use an extra insert for added absorbency. Choosing darker
or patterned fabrics for the top layer of your pads can also help to hide
stains more easily.
Proper care is essential to keep
your cloth pads clean, fresh, and stain-free. After use, rinse the pad in cold
water to prevent stains from setting. You can then soak the used pads in cold
water or a mixture of water and baking soda until you're ready to wash them.
Machine washing your pads with mild detergent is recommended, but avoid using
fabric softeners, as they can reduce the absorbency of the pads. While air
drying is ideal for prolonging the life of your pads, you can also tumble dry
them on low heat if necessary. For stain removal, applying lemon juice and
leaving the pad in the sun can naturally bleach out any discolouration, while
soaking pads in diluted hydrogen peroxide is an effective method for tougher
stains. To prevent odour, adding baking soda to the soaking water or using a
vinegar rinse during the wash can help keep your pads fresh.
If you experience heavy flow or
need reliable overnight protection, there are several features to consider when
choosing the right cloth pads. Look for pads that are longer and wider,
typically around 12 to 15 inches, to provide full coverage while lying down.
Heavy-flow pads often include an extra absorbent core made from materials like
hemp or bamboo, which helps increase their absorbency. Additionally, a
waterproof backing made from PUL or fleece will provide leak protection during
heavier flow days or overnight use.
For beginners, starting with
cloth pads can feel intimidating, but it’s a good idea to ease into the
transition gradually. Many brands offer starter kits that include different
sizes and absorbencies so you can try them out and determine what works best for
you. Experimenting with different fabrics such as bamboo, cotton, or flannel will
also help you figure out what feels most comfortable against your skin.
Beginning with cloth liners on lighter days or using them as a backup can help
you get accustomed to the feel of cloth pads before making a full switch.
Occasionally, some issues like
rashes, leaks, or stains may arise when using cloth pads. If you experience a
rash or irritation, it may be due to the detergent you’re using. Switching to a
hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent can help. Also, make sure that the
pads you’re using are made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Leaks
can occur when the pad doesn’t absorb enough for your flow, so switching to
pads with heavier absorbency or changing them more frequently may solve this
issue. While stains are natural, pre-rinsing and proper washing can minimise
them, and choosing dark or patterned fabrics can help hide any discolouration.
Switching to cloth pads is a
sustainable and eco-friendly decision that offers comfort, customization, and
long-term cost savings. Whether you decide to make your own cloth pads or
choose from trusted brands, there are plenty of options available to ensure you
find the perfect fit for your menstrual needs. With the right care and
selection, cloth pads can become a key part of your zero-waste, healthy, and
natural period routine.
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