5 Reusable Period Pads You Can Throw In The Wash
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If you’re not a fan of cups or tampons, menstrual pads are an effective solution for your periods. But not all pads are made equal! Menstruators can spend thousands of dollars over their lifetimes when it comes to disposable pads, and the materials used can agitate our intimate parts. (You know what we mean!)
For a cost-effective alternative that’s gentle on your body (and the planet), check out these reusable pads that can be used over the long term. Cloth pads can save you money, time, and hassle—so that you can focus on self-care during that time of the month. Etsy is also a great one-stop shop for reusable pads from small businesses.
If you’re looking to make the switch away from period pads, (reusable menstrual pads are not for everyone!) check out these menstrual cups, natural and organic tampons, and PFAS-free period underwear! Feel supported all period long, however you prefer.
1. Rael
Made From | Certified organic cotton
Available Sizes | Petite to overnight
Price per pad | $34–$40 per pad; sold in packs of three
For menstrual pads you can use again and again (up to 120 times, in fact!), check out Rael. These pads are made with five ultra-absorbent layers of certified organic cotton and wrapped in recyclable packaging, sans the chemicals or carcinogens you might find in mainstream pads. Rael also donates menstrual products to those in need in Los Angeles via ongoing partnerships.
2. Ruby Love
Made From | Cotton & cashmere wool
Available Sizes | Medium flow
Price per pad | $20–$69; sold in packs of two or more
Avoid leaks, itches, and noticeable odors with Ruby Love’s double-sided pads. When one side gets full, the dri-tech mesh allows you to simply flip for hours of added protection. Because they’re made with natural materials, this plastic-free pad won’t irritate your nether-regions at all. Available in two- through 12-packs, these are some of the most affordable reusable pads out there.
3. Dame
Natural Materials | Cotton and bamboo
Available Sizes | Mini, liner, regular, night
Price per pad |$11 (three-pack mini)–$19 per pad; multi-packs available with discounts
Made with their patented technology, Dame reusable period pads have five layers of fast-wicking and odor-proof material to keep you safe and dry. With a super soft outer shell of organic cotton and lyocell to keep you comfy and a liner designed to absorb more than 10 times its weight in two seconds, these washable pads are bound to become a favorite. Add on a reusable dry bag to make these extra convenient for when you’re on the go!
4. Moon Pads
Natural Materials | 100% Cotton and polyester fleece
Available Sizes | Light
Price per pad | $12 for one; sold in packs of three
Small business Marley’s Monsters handmakes Moon Pads in Eugene, Oregon. The two layers of 100% cotton flannel come in a variety of cute prints like rainbow chevron or navy Shibori as well as solid black. These reusable pads are meant to be used on lighter days or as back up with your cup, and come with convenient snap wings to secure them in place.
5. Aisle
Natural Materials | Organic cotton & recycled polyester
Available Sizes | Mini, maxi, super
Price per pad | $16–$22 for one
Aisle is a certified B Corp that’s been revolutionizing menstrual hygiene for more than two decades. Blending sustainability and efficacy, Aisle’s reusable pads are ethically crafted in Vancouver using organic cotton and recycled polyester. The winged pads are available in a variety of sizes, patterns, and capacities for whatever your flow is. If you’re not sure where to start, you can try their matchmaker quiz to guide you.
The featured image is from Rael.
