From Disposable to Reusable: A Simple Guide to Cloth Pads
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If you’ve been using disposable pads for as long as you can remember, switching to cloth can feel like a big leap. You might wonder if they’re bulky, if they’ll leak, or if cleaning them will be a hassle.
Some people try reusable pads from Amazon, AliExpress, or Temu and walk away thinking cloth isn’t for them — but often, those mass-market pads are made with low-quality fabrics, thin cores, and designs that don’t fit well. The result? Leaks, bunching, staining, and an uncomfortable experience that doesn’t show what cloth pads can be.
Modern, high-quality reusable pads — like ours — are a completely different experience. They’re comfortable, discreet, easy to care for, and made to last for years, not months.
The Hidden Downsides of Disposables
Disposable pads seem quick and convenient, but there’s a lot going on under the surface:
Skin irritation and chafing – The plastics, adhesives, and synthetic fragrances in disposables can cause rashes, itching, or discomfort, especially during long wear.
Waste and landfill buildup – The average person will throw away 10,000+ pads or tampons in their lifetime. That’s a huge amount of single-use waste for something we only use a few hours at a time.
Constant spending – Every month, you’re buying more, and over a lifetime, that adds up to thousands of dollars.
Comfort trade-offs – Disposables can feel stiff, crinkly, or damp. Some don’t stay in place well, which can lead to leaks or that annoying shifting feeling.
Why Reusable Pads Feel Different
Reusable cloth pads can vary a lot in quality depending on where they come from and how they’re made.
Mass-produced imports often use:
Cheap core fabrics that don’t absorb well and tend to trap odors, so they smell worse over time and never feel truly fresh.
Waterproofing made from thin, slippery plastics that can shift around in underwear and lose effectiveness quickly.
Synthetic toppers that trap heat and don’t allow your skin to breathe, increasing discomfort.
One-size-fits-all shapes that are often too wide, causing them to slip, slide, or even rotate in underwear instead of staying in place.
At Alea Reusables, we take a completely different approach. Our pads are:
Made with premium fabrics chosen for softness, absorbency, and durability.
Built with Zorb cores in every absorbency (except liners) for superior performance.
Backed with soft shell fleece - the same durable, water-resistant fabric used in spring and summer jackets - for reliable protection that lasts for years.
Available in multiple lengths, shapes, and absorbencies so you can get the perfect fit.
Handmade in small batches to ensure quality - not rushed off an assembly line.
The result? A pad that’s comfortable, dependable, and built to last 100–200 washes without losing performance.
The Benefits You Notice Right Away
Here’s what most people tell us after their first month using cloth pads:
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No more sticky plastic edges – Soft fabric wings hold the pad in place without adhesives, so there’s no tugging on skin.
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Better breathability – Without plastic layers trapping heat and moisture, you stay fresher and drier.
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They’re always on hand – No last-minute trips to the store because you ran out.
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They’re kinder to your budget – A good set can last 5–15 years.
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They make periods feel less clinical – Choosing a cheerful print can make an annoying time of month feel a little more “you.”
How to Get Started Without Overwhelming Yourself
Switching to reusables doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. In fact, the easiest way to make the change stick is to start small and build your collection at your own pace.
Here’s a simple approach:
1. Pick just a few pads to start.
Instead of replacing every disposable right away, choose two or three cloth pads in different sizes or absorbencies. This way, you can test them out on different days of your cycle without a big upfront cost.
2. Choose sizes based on your flow and daily routine.
8” moderate – A versatile choice for most daytime wear, especially on lighter or medium flow days.
10” moderate or heavy – Offers extra coverage and absorbency for heavier flow or for days you’ll be out longer.
12” or longer – Perfect for overnight protection, postpartum recovery, or very heavy flow days when you want maximum security.
3. Try them in low-pressure situations first.
If you’re nervous about leaks, test your cloth pads at home or overnight before wearing them out. This builds confidence while you learn what works best for you.
4. Pay attention to your favourites.
After a cycle or two, you’ll notice which sizes and fabrics you reach for first. Those are the ones to stock up on as you grow your collection.
5. Expand slowly.
Adding one or two new pads each month lets you build a full cycle’s worth without feeling like you’re making a big investment all at once.
What If You Work Long Hours or Have a Heavier Flow?
If your job keeps you on your feet for hours at a time, or you can’t always take a bathroom break when you’d like, you’ll want pads that give you longer wear time and extra protection. The same goes for those with heavier flows or gush-style bleeding.
Here’s what works best:
Longer lengths for extended coverage – Pads that are 12" or longer give you more surface area, reducing the risk of leaks at the front or back.
Higher absorbency levels – All our pads (except liners) use Zorb, but heavier absorbencies have more layers of absorbent fabric for extra capacity.
Gusher pads for fast flows – Our Gusher pads combine multiple Zorb layers with absorbent slits that pull fluid in quickly, making them ideal for sudden, heavy releases.
Flared ends for extra security – Wider coverage at one or both ends can help keep leaks contained when you can’t change right away.
Pro tip: Pairing a high-absorbency pad with a comfortable backup (like period underwear) can give you extra peace of mind for long shifts or overnight wear.
Many people are surprised that a well-fitting, high-absorbency cloth pad can last as long, or longer, than their old disposables without leaks or discomfort.
The Bigger Picture - Why It’s Worth the Switch
Switching to cloth pads isn’t just about reducing waste or saving money - although both are huge benefits. It’s about:
Feeling comfortable and confident during your cycle.
Reducing irritation and letting your skin breathe.
Knowing you have a reliable, sustainable product ready at home.
Supporting small businesses that hand-make quality products with care.
Final Thought: Most people who switch wish they’d done it sooner. It’s not just an eco-friendly choice - it’s a comfort upgrade. You deserve period care that works with your body, not against it.