PADS Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I change my pad? You should change your cloth pad as often as you would a disposable. Every couple hours or so depending on flow. It really is woman-specific. Once you have spent a cycle or two using the cloth pads, you will soon know when is the right time to change for you.
2. How do I change pads when I am on the go? Easy. Just take along a couple extra pads with you and slip the soiled pad into a mini-wet bag carrying case such as those made by Sorella Luna. Many of the wet bags have two separate compartments, one for fresh clean pads and another for soiled used pads.
3. How do I wash my cloth pads? There are two basic methods for washing cloth menstrual pads. The soaking method and the Rinsing method.
Soaking Method
- Identify a container in which you will soak your pads. A pot, bowl or whatever works for you.
- Place the used pad in the container and fill with cold water
- Continue to place new soiled pads in the container as your cycle continues replacing the cold water each time
- At the end of your cycle empty the container and place the pads in the wash with your other clothes.
- Depending on your pad and your personal preference, either toss in the dryer or hang to dry
Rinsing Method
- After each use, rinse the pad in cool water and hang to dry
- At the end of your cycle, toss all the rinsed pads into the wash with your other clothes
- Depending on your pad and your personal preference, either toss in the dryer or hang to dry
4. Do pads stain? Your pad should not stain if it is rinsed or soaked properly after use. Most pads come in robust colors which do not show stains anyway.
5. Should I use bleach? We are reluctant to suggest bleach on any cloth pads. The strong chemicals in the bleach are horrible for the environment and can corrode the snaps and grommets on the pads decreasing your pads usefulness.
6. How many do I need to get started? There is no one universal answer to this question. The number of pads and the different sizes of the pads depend on each woman, her cycle and whether she is using pads exclusively or in tandem with a cup or sponge. It also depends on how often you wish to do laundry each cycle. To start out, we suggest two pantyliners, 4 regulars and 2 overnight pads. Then, once you know how your cycles goes, you can supplement with more of whatever you need.
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