Many women are devoted to using cloth diapers, recycle conscientiously, and insist on buying organic. Yet many continue to use disposable menstrual pads as well. Conventional menstrual pads are made out of wood fiber, which means that trees need to be cut down to make these products. They are then bleached using chlorine bleach, which adds additional chemicals to the environment. Finally, paper pads are thrown away after a single use. Choosing reusable cloth pads is a sensible environmental choice, and it’s not that hard!
Cloth Menstrual Pads Come in Organic Cotton, Bamboo, Hemp and Other Fabrics
While using pads is not something that women always look forward to, using cloth menstrual pads can make it more fun! They come in funky leopard prints, florals, and patterns to suit any woman. These cloth pads are breathable and easy to wash. Those who are sensitive to chemicals may also find that using an organic cotton, bamboo, or hemp pad reduces reactions to pads, because conventional pads contain chemical residues.
Pre-Soaking Reusable Cloth Menstrual Pads
Some people choose to pre-soak cloth menstrual pads to avoid stains. Soak pads in a ceramic pot overnight, then throw them into the wash. It’s possible to avoid pre-soaking if laundry is something that is done every day. Try not to bleach the pads, since this can cause cloth to degrade over time. Those concerned about stains might want to use a darker pattern of menstrual pad.
Cloth Menstrual Pads Come in Different Sizes and Thicknesses
Just like conventional pads, cloth menstrual pads come in different sizes and thicknesses. Choose longer pads for nighttime or heavy flow. Add liners for the first few days, then choose a shorter, unlined pad for the last few days. Most cloth pads snap or Velcro on to the underwear, making them simple to change.
Pair Cloth Menstrual Pads With A Menstrual Cup For Greater Protection
For those who have a heavy flow or for those who would prefer to use cloth pads as backup, using a menstrual cup with pads is an excellent option. A menstrual cup is inserted into the body while folded, then it unfolds and catches menstrual blood. It can be removed, washed, and reinserted at any time. Reusable cloth pads and menstrual cups make an excellent complement. Use cloth pads at night and a cup during the day time, or use a pad as a backup product for a cup.
Buy Cloth Pads Online
Many work-at-home moms who are handy with a sewing machine create cloth pads and sell them on their own sites and through craft sites like Etsy. Reusable menstrual products are also available at online retailers like Lunapads and Gladrags. Considering that the average woman will spend four dollars a month on menstrual products, a selection of pads will pay for itself within the year.
Reusable cloth menstrual products are an environmentally-friendly alternative to disposable conventional pads and tampons. They’re cost-effective and remarkably easy to use and clean.
Tricia Edgar - Tricia Edgar is a gardener, environmental educator, and science writer from the Pacific Northwest.
