#cloth pads

[friendly-pad]

One day, a man asked me: if cloth pads are so better in so many ways, why aren't they more diffused?

I hadn't the right answer straight away. I had to think about it and after few times (obviously when I wasn't still speaking with him) I made this hypothesis:

The first reaction to cloth pads, commonly, is thinking they're gross and unclean and unsafe. Since we are used to dispose every thing around period, we are used to think it's dirty and you don't bother wash it. The next logical step is thinking that it's unsafe to wash it and that period blood it's dangerous to have contact with, and that's the reason why we dispose everything.

That seems logical, in fact we only dispose things that are dangerous.

That is thought by so many people, but it's not true. Period blood it's not unsafe, it's not dirty. It's only blood

#period #menstrual pad #cloth pads #reusable pads #just blood

[aprillikesthings]

if you have period underwear

and/or re-usable fabric pads, a lot of people will tell you rinse them the moment you take them off, or soak them before washing. I have never managed to do this consistently??

(Also the times I rinsed them out I was like...okay but now I have soaking wet, still not-clean period undies. Now what.)

But if you just toss them (dried blood and all) into your normal cold-water wash they don't always get clean enough plus, I dunno, it feels Icky to me. (YMMV, if you're using them only for backup to tampons/cups it's not a big deal; but when I've worn just period undies on a heavier day....oof.)

But what DOES work for me:

First, I just wash them in a normal (low-water) cold water wash by themselves.

Then, when that cycle is over, I add the rest of my cold water load and run it normally. So the pads/undies get washed twice: once by themselves, and once with a normal load of clothes.

(And I always air-dry them.)

Obviously this isn't a great option if you pay for every load you wash--I have laundry hook-ups and own my washer.

ALSO I have ADHD if I'm not sitting in the living room where I can hear the washing machine sing its little "I'm done!" song, I set a timer to remind me to flip the laundry otherwise I would NEVER REMEMBER

#menstruation #periods #my posts #period underwear #cloth pads #(I used to use a cup but they all irritate my vagina now which SUCKS #I have no idea why/how it makes no sense??? I washed them I boiled them I tried buying a new one #but no matter what a few days into my cycle I'd feel like I was getting a Yeastie and I was not I was just irritated!! so I had to stop ;_; #and now it's just period underwear/cloth pads and sometimes a disposable pad and/or tampon) #My washing machine was a secondhand LG frontloader I got off craigslist for $200 #like six years ago?? #secondhand appliances ftw #so many new ones suck buy one just a couple of years old!! #as long as it works it's probably fine for years and years after that #I had a replace a valve on it once but I did it myself for $20 #bless people who upload repair videos to youtube okay

[daemonmatthias]

Apparently, there's a shortage of period products. :/

Here is a snippet from this Axios article, titled "Supply Chain Issues are Creating a Tampon Shortage".

[Image ID] a cropped screenshot from the named article. It reads-

Driving the news: popular retailers CVS and Walgreens, as well as major manufacturer Proctor & Gamble, acknowledged a shortage of tampons and other period products and said they are working to meet consumer demand as soon as possible, per CNN.

The big picture: supply chain issues and historically high inflation have affected all manner of goods. Tampon prices are up roughly 10% from a year ago, Bloomberg reports, while the cost of mensural pads has risen more than 8% during the same period.

Contributing to the rising prices is an uptick in the cost to make the products. Materials manufacturers need- cotton and plastic- have been in high demand for use in personal protective equipment since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine constrained the supply of fertilizer needed to grow cotton, CNN reports.

[end image ID]

Is now the time to switch to reusable period products?

If you've been considering a switch, now might be a good time! I know not everyone can afford the higher up-front cost of reusable products, but if you can afford it, then you'll actually save money in the long run. (I haven't bought disposable period products in about 2 years.) Also, you may be able to ask for reusable products as gifts or use gift money to buy them.

Of course, every body is different and everyone has different preferences. There are 3 main types of reusable period products:

Silicone cups (Diva cups, I believe were the original main brand?)

Period underwear (Thinx is a major brand)

Reusable cloth pads (there are MANY brands, but I personally recommend Tree Hugger Cloth Pads out of Canada because they have the widest range of fabric & size options plus have some of the easiest care instructions)

Please allow me to tell you a little about my own journey of switching. I wanted to switch in order to be more eco-friendly and to save money. My general approach was first to do some research on the different types of products to determine the right one for me. I knew silicone cups were not it for various personal reasons. Then, although intrigued by the concept, decided that period underwear were also not for me because of my work situation- I need to change quickly in a shared bathroom. Next, I started looking into brands of cloth pads. I looked pretty seriously into 3 different brands. I compared cost, shipping times/cost, care instructions, sizes, fabrics, etc. Although I have friends who are very happy with other brands and have seen a few recommendations here on Tumblr, I have been extremely happy with Tree Hugger (who, btw, apparently also sells period underwear now).

After I switched, I was delighted to discover that I stopped getting rashes along my bikini line. I had assumed they were from friction and it didn't occur to me that fabric wouldn't cause the same problems. A couple months after I switched, I read a post on here of others experiencing the same thing. It turns out, most of these rashes are not caused by friction; they're also caused by chemical irritants and moisture build-up. Cloth pads do not contain these chemicals and are made from softer, more breathable fabrics, so almost everyone who switches no longer get these rashes.

Again, though, every body is different. A friend of mine stopped using her cloth pads because she started getting yeast infections. I recommended that she try a different fabric. The brand she was using had only one "style", just in different sizes. I suggested she try Tree Hugger's athletic, extra-wicking fabric or a silicone cup instead. (Unfortunately, her financial situation had changed and she has been unable to afford to try them so far.)

Even if you can't switch over completely yet, starting to build up a "stash" of period underwear or cloth pads might be a good move. I initially switched during the first lockdowns and was home, able to wash and reuse my first cloth pads during the same cycle. This allowed me to try out different fabrics and sizes and then order more of what I liked in the sizes I needed most. If you work from home and are able to do the same, I recommend it! If you aren't able to do that, it is still a good idea to order what you can afford to and use them alongside disposable products until you can afford more. Unlike what the US education system teaches- any progress is good progress! In fact, many people permanently pair the cloth pads or period underwear with a silicone cup or disposable tampons.

More than any snappy little call to action I could put here, I really just hope/pray that you are able to find a product or combination of products that make your periods more comfortable and less stressful like the cloth pads have done for me. I was intimidated by the research I thought would be required in switching, and that's why I didn't do it until lockdowns gave me the time. I hope this post gives you enough of a head start on the research that you are able to find what will work for you faster and more easily.

#menstrual health #ecofriendly #reusable #period underwear #cloth pads #diva cup #personal

[whispers-into-the-void]

8 months of using cloth pads and i entered a chemist's shop recently, saw an entire shelf of disposable sanitary napkins and got reminded that some people still do use disposable pads like

i genuinely completely forgot whisper stayfree sofy et al. existed???

#cloth pads #menstruation #menstrual cycle #sanitary napkins #sanitary pads #disposable sanitary napkins #periods #people who menstruate #period products

[blackwoolncrown]

Okay this is up on Patreon now! It’s for Patron’s only if you misseed the live- become a Patron >here< if you’re not already- I post relaxational/healing media as well as lots of recipes and rituals.

https://www.patreon.com/ThatWhich?fan_landing=true

#cloth pads #menstrual cups #menstrual disc #period care #menstruation

[solarpunkandtea]

I haven’t had a period in almost a year but I think I’m gonna switch over to reusable pads. I’ve muddled through cloth diapering 90% of the time, maybe this will work out as well.

#tea speaks #period #menstrual #cloth diaper #cloth pads #I’m mildly crunchy I guess

[superbottomsblog]

Cloth Pads: A Sustainable Alternative for Menstrual Care

Switching to reusable cloth pads for menstrual care is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice that benefits the environment and contributes to your overall health and well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about cloth pads, from their numerous benefits to their proper usage, and even where to find cloth pads online. Whether you're new to the concept or looking to enhance your eco-conscious lifestyle, this SuperBottoms guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources to make informed choices about your menstrual care routine.

What Are Cloth Pads?

Cloth pads, known as period cloth pads, are washable and reusable alternatives to disposable menstrual products. They are typically made from layers of absorbent fabric, such as cotton or bamboo, and come in various sizes and styles to suit different flow levels and preferences. Unlike disposable pads, which are often made with plastic and synthetic materials, cloth pads are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, making them a gentle and eco-friendly option for menstrual care. By choosing cloth pads, individuals can reduce waste and lessen the environmental impact of their period care routine while enjoying comfort and cost-effectiveness.

Benefits of Using Cloth Pads:

Environmentally Friendly: Cloth pads reduce waste and lessen the environmental impact of disposable menstrual products. By switching to reusable options like SuperBottoms Flow Lock Cloth Pads, you can significantly decrease the amount of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials ending up in landfills and oceans.

Cost-Effective: While the initial investment in period cloth pads may be higher than disposable options, they are more cost-effective in the long run. With proper care, reusable cloth pads can last several years, saving you money on monthly menstrual product expenses.

Healthier Option: Cloth pads are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes often found in disposable pads. They are gentle on the skin and reduce the risk of irritation, allergic reactions, and discomfort during menstruation.

Comfortable and Breathable: Unlike some disposable pads, cloth pads are breathable and comfortable. They allow for airflow, reducing the likelihood of sweat and moisture buildup, which can contribute to odour and discomfort.

Customizable and Stylish: Reusable cloth pads come in various colours, patterns, and designs, allowing you to express your personality and style. They are available in different sizes and thicknesses to accommodate varying flow levels and preferences.

How to Use Cloth Pads?

Cloth pads are easy and eco-friendly, offering a comfortable and sustainable alternative to disposable menstrual products. Here's a simple guide on how to use cloth pads:

Preparation: Before your period starts, wash your cloth pads with water and a mild detergent like SuperBottoms Laundry Detergent Sheets to ensure they are clean and ready for use. Store clean pads in a designated container or pouch for easy access when needed.

Choosing the Right Pad: Select a cloth pad that matches your flow level and preferences. Cloth pads come in various sizes, shapes, and absorbances to accommodate different needs.

Placement: When your period begins, place the period cloth pads inside your underwear, ensuring it is positioned correctly to cover the vaginal area. Some cloth pads have snaps or adhesive strips to secure them in place, while others may be tucked into the underwear.

Changing: Depending on your flow, change your cloth pad every few hours or as needed. Regular pad replacement is essential for maintaining freshness and hygiene. Carry a spare cloth pad with you when out and about to ensure you can change it as needed.

Rinsing and Washing: Rinse the cloth pad with cold water to remove blood and prevent staining. Avoid using hot water, as it can set stains. Launder the cloth pad with your regular laundry using cold water and mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric and reduce absorbency. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat to preserve the fabric's integrity and extend the cloth pad's lifespan.

Storage: Between uses, store clean and dry cloth pads in a breathable container or pouch. Avoid storing them in airtight containers, which can lead to mould or mildew growth. You can also use a SuperBottoms Waterproof Travel Bag.

Maintenance: Periodically inspect your cloth pads for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or thinning fabric. Replace any worn-out pads to ensure optimal performance and comfort.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively use cloth pads as part of your menstrual care routine, enjoying the benefits of sustainability, comfort, and eco-friendliness with every use.

Key Takeaways:

Switching to reusable cloth pads is a simple yet impactful step towards a more sustainable, eco-friendly menstrual care routine. 

Choosing cloth pads reduces waste, saves money, and prioritises your health and comfort during menstruation. 

With a wide range of cloth pads online options, switching to cloth pads has never been easier or more accessible. Join the movement towards sustainable menstruation and experience the benefits of reusable cloth pads today!

FAQs:

What are cloth pads?

Ans. Cloth pads, also known as reusable or period cloth pads, are washable and reusable alternatives to disposable menstrual products. They are typically made from layers of absorbent fabric, such as cotton or bamboo, and come in various sizes and styles to suit different flow levels and preferences.

How do I use cloth pads?

Ans. Using cloth pads is easy. Place the pad inside your underwear, ensuring it covers the vaginal area. Change the pad every few hours or as needed, rinse it with cold water after use, and launder it with your regular laundry using mild detergent.

Are cloth pads comfortable to wear?

Ans. Yes, cloth pads are comfortable to wear. Unlike some disposable pads, cloth pads are breathable and soft against the skin, reducing the likelihood of irritation and discomfort during menstruation.

#cloth pads #period cloth pads #reusable cloth pads #cloth pads online

[upuptahquamenon]

“Eww why do you use reusable pads, wearing a stained piece of cloth is gross/doesn't sound healthy.” Lol, well you obviously don’t know what I wear the other 24 days of the month. *pssst: If you don’t care about stains cloth pads dont require nearly as much time/labor/scrubbing/soaking as most brands would have you believe.*

#as long as you rinse them out well you can wash them with the rest of your clothes #this works for ME #cloth pads #reusable pads #period

[friendly-pad]

Cloth pads review: Pupus

They are some of my favourite, my go to very often.

They have a waterproof layer on the back with different design to choose from, and on the front they are red, in cotton jearsey with two hearts embroidered for each side (you bleed on the red side).

They come in different sizes, from small to overnight, and I like them all, they are thin but very absorbent. Also the overnight pad is very long, around 13inch-33cm, and I totally feel safe with them on.

Also they are very easy to clean, they don't stain at all, so they are very handy for beginner.

I consider them in a medium price rage, so aroud 5-6€ a piece. So, even if they are perfect for beginner, I can understand that they require a medium budget to start.

#cloth pads #reusable pads #cloth pads review #pupus

[plebeiangoth]

I really want either to be good at embroidery or get a machine so I can make cloth menstrual pads embroidered with sigils and incantations. Seems like a really simple way to utilize blood magic

#cloth pads #cloth menstrual pads #reusable menstrual pads #crafting #blood magic

[risestarkiss]

On His Own Terms

Rise Ramblings #2

In my post, “This Whole Situation,” I discuss how Donnie doesn’t see himself or his mutation as something that needs to be hidden away. He wears clothes when he's out and about, and that’s about it. However, as turtlemen in the middle of NYC, sometimes they need to actually wear disguises. So, what does Donnie do in those cases?

Old ladies? Well, that’s a choice. And the way Leo phrased the question is interesting as well.

“Why do you always make us dress up as old ladies.”

This means that every time it’s up to Donnie to choose the disguise, it’s not up for discussion. They’re going to be old ladies. Period.

But the most interesting part of this scene is Donatello's answer to Leo's question.

You would think that blending in would be the main goal, but no. Donnie’s main goal with his chosen disguise is: comfort. He’s not willing to sacrifice his own comfort just to make other people comfortable with his presence.

He’ll wear a disguise if he must, but only on his own terms.

And I’m happy that he can set his boundary and stick to it.

Never change, Donnie, never change…

○○○○

…Does anyone else see Leo’s old lady drip?! Where did he get those pearls from? Forget the pearls, where did he get the pantyhose? Did he style his own wig? How long did it take for him to put on his makeup? What color eyeshadow is that? Look at those lashes! Look at those bazongas! He put so much work into his fit, no wonder he received a compliment.

#I can't with these two #this is a donnie centric post I promise #but I couldn't resist the leo drip #but honestly donnie's little hair bun is so cute #also when the turtles are wearing clothes around town they tend to stand out not blend in #has to do with the outfits they choose to wear #someone likes to wear massive shoulder pads #and someone likes to wear massive boots #starkiss ramblings #rise analysis #rottmnt analysis #character analysis #rise disaster twins #Donatello Ramblings #rise don #rise donnie #rise donatello #donatello hamato #rottmnt donatello #donatello #rise leo #rise leonardo #leonardo #rottmnt leonardo #leonardo hamato #rottmnt #tmnt #teenage mutant ninja turtles #rise of the teenage mutant ninja turtles #rise of the tmnt

[saralib]

Found out about reusable cloth pads/pantylines and is considering switching to them :D

I have made researches by reading online and watching YouTube from how to wash them and picking the right cloth pad for the past two nights, and I’ll make a new post to link them in another day (I also dive into cloth diapers videos since it’s particularly the same).

I posted this because I thought it would be a good idea to write about my experience with it so I can try on different types and make a good decision.

#cloth pads #eco friendly

[cherrych4]

wish there was posts abt cloth pads that werent written to be as scammy and "free money for surveys" esque as possible so everytime i see them on my dash i dont have the urge to nuke myself

#cloth pads #i know it would be much more helpful to write it myself but ive never used them #if i used them i would write it myself

[puppyeared]

hello every nyan

fan character for Laika's Comet, by @catmask (go check it out!!)

#made the colors a lil more vibrant #his thing as a travelling magician to revive the arts is kind of inspired by the troupe in station eleven which is coincidentally a #post-apocalypse novel.. they go between towns performing shakespearean plays and i thought it was really interesting #especially in the context of the rest of the book. im rambling #his clothes are supposed to be an old magicians costume.. i like to think he lives in an abandoned theater when he isnt on the road #want to get around to designing his bunny assistant but im still padding out the details #i put way too much thought into this and im probably already attached lol #my art #myart #my oc #fan character #fc #sleight #furry #fur #furth #furthling...??? #eyestrain #bright colors #Laika’s Comet

[friendly-pad]

A thing that surprised me the first time I wore a cloth pads was the feeling of wearing it. And that feeling is the reason I always claim them to be more comfortable than disposable pads.

A cloth pad is made of cloth (yeah, surprise!) and that means that they feel very similar to an underwear. So you kinda don't feel them at all.

Obviously you can feel the thickness of some (thickness is often a choice, to have more absorbency), but with the most of cloth pads you just feel cloth on your skin, just as you feel with underwear on.

So they ARE more comfortable, because you don't feel them, you don't feel any sticky or sweaty thing on you. You just feel cloth, often soft cloth, it's like sitting on a cloud

#cloth pads #menstrual pad #reusable pads #happy pads

[l3irdl3rain]

my mom got me two cloth cat diapers to put over Valentine’s actual diapers to help keep them from falling down. They are his hot pink pants

#the other pair is purple #I’m just using baby diapers I cut a tail hole into and they work amazing. no leakage so far 🤞🏻 #but I am always worried they’re going to fall off #also I don’t get these cloth ones? they’re SO thin there’s no way they’d do any good #I guess maybe if you put a pad inside them? #my post #Valentine