Reusable Menstrual Pads: A Good Idea or Just Plain Yucky?
Posted on 22. Jun, 2009 by Sarah Valek in Shopping
Does the idea of a reusable menstrual pad gross you out? If you’re used to using disposable pads or tampons, you probably think washable pads and cloth liners are pretty disgusting. I was the same way, that is, before I made the switch.
The idea of cloth pads initially seemed so revolutionary to me-in a hardcore, to-each-her-own type of way. I admired the environmental benefits of reusable pads but I wasn’t about to give up my convenient so-called sterile disposables. I mean, I could live in a tree to be more eco-friendly, but I’m not going to do it. There are some things that are just too extreme, right?
Then I saw them in a store: organic flannel cloth menstrual pads. I had to admit they looked supremely soft and comfortable. Plus, they were super cute and came with a handmade beaded carrying case. I tried them out and, needless to say, they won me over. I’m now a cloth pad mama and not ashamed to admit it. In fact, I’m more than happy to sing the praises of using cloth pads.
Did you know that you’ll use about 1300 disposable pads and tampons in just five years? You can keep those out of the landfill by switching to cloth. Plus, cloth pads save you money-about $265 in over five years.
Cloth pads are not just for the hardcore hippie-they’re for every type of woman, literally. You can find reusable pads in many styles, sizes, patterns and fabrics. You can buy them online from large companies or have them custom-made by a work-at-home mom.
If you want to get started, purchase six to 12 day pads, two or three night pads and a few pantyliners. Cloth pads are easy to care for-simply pre-soak in cold water, then machine wash and dry. To avoid staining, soak a used pad immediately in cold water.
If you’re curious but not completely sold on the idea of reusable menstrual cloth, some companies offer special low-risk trials and guarantees.
Give it a try. Chances are, you’ll be surprisingly un-grossed out.
