Switching to reusable pads is a very important decision and lifestyle change, but it's well worth it!
Yes, it will be a bit more hassle than simply throwing away a disposable pad after use and opening a new one (that takes about 5 seconds…), but it will have numerous positive effects on you and the environment!!!
Because it breathes and contains no chemicals, it provides a much more natural and comfortable feeling than its disposable plastic counterparts.
Numerous studies have already shown how much waste we generate with disposable menstrual products during our lives.
Therefore, it's time for a change, not only for environmental reasons but also for health factors!
However, before making the switch, it's worth exploring a few questions, which I will now try to answer for you.
How many should I start with?
I always recommend that the transition be gradual, and that you first try out just a few reusable pads. It's worth experimenting to see which size works best on which days, and then expanding your collection accordingly.
Even replacing a portion of your disposable products during your period is a huge achievement. With a gradual transition and positive experiences, you can quickly achieve a waste-free period.
It's worth trying the first pieces at home. The sense of security that home comfort provides is important. This way, you can calmly figure out how it works, how much liquid it absorbs, how often you need to change it, how to wash it, etc. This is just another new habit that needs to be incorporated into your daily routine.
What size do I need?
Everyone's bleeding is different in strength and intensity, so I can't give you a precise answer. However, when choosing a size, it's worth considering a few factors.
Would you use it on its own or as a supplement to a tampon/cup? Do you have heavy bleeding or rather light? How many days does it last? On which days would you like to use a reusable pad instead of a disposable one?
Basically, you'll find four sizes here:
Washable panty liner:
Available in two styles, thong (a panty liner that can be converted into a thong style) and regular S size.
Both types have a thin absorbent and waterproof layer. I recommend them for supplementing tampons/cups and for very light spotting days. You can also use them for ovulation or other discharges that occur in the middle of your cycle.
If you want to see what kind of panty liners I make, click here.
Washable intimate pad:
S size: for lighter days, or as a supplement to a cup/tampon
M size: for medium and heavy days, or as a supplement to a cup/tampon
L size: for medium and heavy days, and for nighttime use
If you want to see what kind of washable pads I make, click here.
How do I change it during the day if I'm on the go?If you're on the go, the easiest way is to get a "wetbag", which is essentially a toiletry bag lined with waterproof PUL fabric. After use, simply fold and snap the pad together (with the used side inwards), then you can safely carry it home in this bag, where you can soak it in cold water and wash it.
How do I clean it?
After use, soak it in cold water for 1-2 hours, as needed. During this time, the absorbed liquid will dissolve from it. Then, squeeze it in a little lukewarm soapy water, perhaps soap any remaining stains, and then wash it with your underwear at a maximum of 30 degrees Celsius. It is only recommended to wash at higher temperatures rarely, as this significantly shortens the lifespan of the waterproof PUL layer and cotton materials.
(Photo by caringpanda.com)
It is important to soak the used pad in cold water as soon as possible. This causes the blood to automatically dissolve from it, leaving no trace on the fabric and making it easy to clean.
You can add a little vinegar or tea tree oil to the water to disinfect it.
If it has dried out, proceed in the same way, but soak it for a longer period. For stain removal, use ox gall soap or stain remover salt.
I hope I've managed to answer your questions! My goal is for as many people as possible to learn about the possibilities offered by sustainable menstruation!
If you are still unsure about anything before trying it, feel free to contact me, and I'll be happy to help!
Orsi
-Hoopla Sewing-