I’m quite new to the phenomenon of using reusable sanitary pads but here is what I have learnt.
Periods are natural, why shouldn’t our sanitary products be too? Your period is a monthly reminder to take good care of yourself and one of the best ways to care for your body is to choose safer and more natural feminine care products like reusable cotton sanitary pads.
Some Eco-Credentials
Most disposable sanitary products contain plastics, chemical gels and fragrances. All of which should really not go near your delicate region. Although, there are now more natural and eco-friendly disposable cotton pads, using cloth sanitary pads, is one of the most eco-friendly alternatives for sustainable periods that is not as intrusive as the menstrual cups. Avoiding unnecessary exposure to the synthetic ingredients in disposable pads and tampons is an absolute must!
When we move on to the issue of waste created, it is believed that women use an average of 12,000 to 16,000 disposable panty liners, pads and tampons in their lifetime, all of which become waste!
Pause and think about that.
Think about the population of women and the amount of waste that will accumulate in your family alone. Not to mention the accumulation of packaging waste as well. Reusable cloth sanitary pads last for a number of years as they can be washed over and over again. This has a greater, more positive impact on the environment, and it can save you fewer trips to the store for that last-minute pad. This is also beneficial to our pockets!
The most important and beneficial reason to use cloth sanitary pads is not just because they are reusable but they are also very comfortable and absorbent. You can now say goodbye to that squashy feeling of disposable pads, sticking to pants or getting stuck. The ones we stock which have been used and certified by our lovely retail manager are very comfortable. No leaks, no accidents just a stress-free and natural menstrual cycle.
Most of them are made of biodegradable and environment-friendly materials that therefore create less waste than disposable alternatives. The Puchi treasure pads we have are made from cotton and organic bamboo charcoal that is very absorbent and causes no irritation. Using reusable cloth sanitary pads also means that you are less likely to develop Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a condition that occurs by wearing a tampon for a long period of time which then causes bacteria to enter the bloodstream and may cause death. Reusable cloth sanitary pads are safer and a much healthier alternative.
Usage, Care and Maintenance
Careful attention must be made to the correct and proper use of reusable sanitary pads though. They need proper and thorough washing, drying and caring in order to avoid vaginal infections caused by the growth of bacteria in your intimate region. You should also change these pads approximately every 6 hours to avoid irritation and infection due to wetness. After wash, you simply rinse it immediately under a running cold water tap and put in a wet bag ready for washing. To wash, it is advised to use powder detergents and wash at 60 degrees and they can be washed with your clothes but do not use fabric softeners or conditioners as this reduces it’s absorbency.
Now let’s talk more about leakage – the ultimate fear. Many women have the misconception that because of the cloth material leakage is bound to happen right? Not necessarily. Based on research, fortunately, most women find that cloth pads prevent leakage better than disposable ones. Reason being cloth pads do not twist or slightly come undone like adhesive pads can. Most cloth sanitary pads have an absorbent inner made from cotton to keep you leakage safe. To stay comfortable and leakage-free, you need to change your pad frequently and use the correct absorbance based on your flow.
Here at The Cleaning Cabinet, we are pleased to have the Puchi Treasures reusable cotton pads made with organic bamboo charcoal, sorb, PUL and cotton. These pads are super soft, absorbent and comfortable. They come in various sizes based on different levels of absorbances.
- For a light flow or a liner alternative, we recommend the 9inch pad.
- For a medium or regular flow, we recommend the 10inch pad.
- And for a heavier flow or ideal night-time protection, we recommend the 12inch pad.
Most people attest to reusable pads being as effective or even more than disposable pads. So what’s your thought? Have you tried reusable pads, what are your pros and cons? Are you unsure about trying them, why not? Let us know what you think in the comments below as we continue to journey towards sustainability in every area of our natural lives.