This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s spring editorial intern Asa Conroy. Find them on Instagram at @asakayconroy. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
Finding the right menstrual product can be difficult. There are so many different things to consider, such as comfort, affordability, and even what is good for your health. I tried for years to make disposable pads and tampons work for me, but they never made me, or my wallet, feel good. About two years ago, I made the decision to switch over to reusable menstrual pads and I haven’t looked back.
I’ve seen them recommended hundreds of times, but I was never sure until I got a pack for myself. A lot of people seemed to hold reservations. Everyone has the same questions: Are reusable pads safe? What’s it like wearing them? How easy are they to clean? Are they the right choice for me? Let’s work through these questions together and you can decide!
Safety of Reusable Pads
Many consider properly maintained reusable pads to be safer than disposable pads. The biggest possible health hazard is bacteria growing from the blood. This hazard can easily be avoided by routinely cleaning and sanitizing your pads. Regular laundry detergent combats blood, amongst other bodily fluids, so you don’t have to worry about it. Some pads are even made with antibacterial fabric Follow whatever cleaning instructions come with your pad, and you and your underwear should be as good as gold.
Cloth/flannel pads, like all reusable period products, usually do not contain the chemicals found in disposable pads and tampons. They are made with biodegradable and sustainable fabrics. So, they’re good for the Earth too. Reusable pads avoid the potential risks of toxic shock syndrome, endometriosis, or even cancer. Dioxin, pesticides, and even added fragrances are dangerous to routinely put on or in your body.
If you cut toxic people from your life, your period products should be no different.
What’s it like wearing them?
Reusable pads are often made with soft, absorbent, and breathable materials. Cotton and flannel are the most commonly used fabrics. So, it avoids the potential chafing and irritation that can be caused by plastic, especially for anyone with sensitive skin.
When I switched for the first time, I immediately felt a difference. My starter pack from Cariona arrived about halfway through my period. Not really perfectly timed, but I’m glad I got to test them out right away. I ran to my bathroom with the package and ripped off the one I was already wearing. A mistake because I did not wash them before hand, and I also ripped my underwear. But I clipped the cloth pad in with ease. It did not get stuck on my skin or clothes. It didn’t crinkle. It did not get stuck in an awkward position that would end up with me throwing away a new pad.
This was the pattern for the next couple of days. There were times where I forgot it was even there. Something that used to scare me, but that feeling went away too quickly. Cloth pads are not fully immune to moving and accidentally staining. I had a small issue, but on a positive note I noticed it pretty quickly. The cotton pad is thicker than the plastic ones, so when it moved, I felt it. Something that I often unnoticed when wearing disposable pads until the sticky part contacted my skin.
What Changed for you?
The most noticeable change came over the next couple of months. I started experiencing less cramps and all irritation disappeared. The first was one of the things that I heard with every recommendation. Apparently, many people have a negative reaction to the chemicals used in making disposable pads and tampons that make cramps worse. Fortunately, I’ve never had terrible cramps, but I didn’t realize the change until after it was gone. Sometimes you don’t realize you miss things until they’re gone, but I didn’t miss those.
The second most noticeable change was that I was saving tons of money each month. Admittedly, my health class left me with some paranoia about how often I needed to change my pad. I probably blew through more than I needed to. But with reusable pads, my paranoia only cost me a single payment for several years of use.
It can’t all be perfect
Full honesty, the first drawback I experienced was during the summer. Cotton pads can be very warm. Living in through warm Georgia summers, I knew sweat was unavoidable. That proved true before May was even over. However, I was in for an oddly welcome surprise. I, personally, did not experience additional irritation from the sweat. Skin irritation to be exact, it was plenty annoying to have such a hard time cooling down when switching a pad didn’t help. Relying on reusable pads also meant I couldn’t swim, so laying under my ceiling fan was the best option.
The second was washing the pads. The instructions are simple but, balancing a wash schedule can be difficult. When I only had the starter pack, I had six pads to balance between. There can be over 50 in a large disposable pack. That’s a big difference. I found myself running washes (in either the washing machine or under a faucet) constantly. Then, it took so long to dry if I did not use the dryer. It’s not recommended for all pads but preferred to staining your underwear. It wasn’t until I got an additional set of pads before I found a good schedule.
How easy are they to clean?
Most reusable pads are machine washable. However, most brands recommend rinsing it through in either your sink, shower, or bath before doing so. Each brand has its own washing instructions so make sure you follow those, and your pads will last you a long time. Plus, once they are rinsed, you can throw them in with your regular wash!
In my experience, and what I’ve heard from others, the most annoying part is wringing out the pad. While handwashing the pad, it will absorb water (ideally), so the blood will not fully drain out until you wring it. This is process can range anywhere from irritating to painful. Not everyone can easily perform that hand motion without assistance. Some users choose to avoid it by going straight to a specialized wash. Although depending on the wash cycle, that may not get the same clean.
Some detergents may also be too harsh on the fabric. However, most home-remedies (such as hydrogen peroxide, distilled white vinegar, or baking soda) are usually safe. Again, this depends on the pad makers. I recommend checking before DIY-ing your laundry.
Admittedly, the idea of ripping off a disposable pad sounds a lot easier. It’s a two-step process (sometimes three if you ruin your underwear). However, all it takes is getting into a routine and the extra bit of work seems worth it.
Are they the right choice for me?
Well that all still depends on you. As much as I can say that reusable pads are safe, comfortable, affordable, sustainable, easy to use and clean, it’s your decision. Okay, I had to use all the good words there because I personally believe this is a choice you should consider. If you already use disposable pads, the transition will be easier. They’re also less intimidating than a cup.
If you are considering buying reusable pads, check out some of the different brands and think about which one might suit you best.
I use Cariona pads. They have a variety of packs based on your cycle and flow. Many different sizes and shapes, all in fun patterns. They are a little bit on the expensive side. So, if you go with these, make sure you can splurge for your period.
GladRags, have a wider variety of options with an additional monthly subscription for a new pad each month. Their reusable pads have a three-part design that allows you to adjust your pad for your needs and comfort. They are firmly on the expensive side, but for understandable reasons.
Wegreeco pads are like Cariona, but much more affordable. There are several packs to choose from, $30 and under across the board. Even for those who need an X-Large. So, you won’t be punished for what mother nature brings to you each month. Although you cannot get a variety of sizes in one pack, so the overall cost will change if you need multiple sizes.
Eco Lovely Stuff provides a starter pack with a good selection of sizes. Unfortunately, they are a bit on the expensive side. You get to choose your own set, so even with the high price, you can find some that work for you. They also come in different fabrics. Lots of variety for this family-owned business.
Not all pads are perfect, but any of these pads can be perfect for you. If not there are plenty more to choose from. I’m happy with the switch I made two years ago. I found a reusable period product that suits me. Hopefully, these could suit you as well. Reusable pads have a ton of benefits. So, keep those in mind, and compare them with your availability and comfort. I wish you luck on your monthly journey, and find whatever methods help you with it.
How do you feel about reusable pads? Are you thinking about trying them out? Do you already use them? Let us know in the comment section below!
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