Frequently Asked Questions: Explore Our Cloth Pads and Get Answers
1. What are cloth pads?
Cloth pads are reusable menstrual hygiene products made from fabric, designed to replace disposable pads. Typically composed of absorbent layers and a waterproof or water-resistant backing, they offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to single-use products.
2. How do cloth pads work?
Cloth pads function similarly to disposable pads by absorbing menstrual flow, but they’re washable and reusable. Designed to be gentle on the skin, they feature wings and snaps that secure them to your underwear, ensuring they stay in place during wear. Cloth pads are comfortable and breathable offering both comfort and protection.
3. Are cloth pads comfortable to wear?
Yes! Cloth pads are known for their comfort. Many users find them more breathable and less irritating than disposables. Their fabric construction allows for better airflow, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
4. How do I clean cloth pads?
For a more detailed guide, visit our Care page. After use, store the pad dry, then rinse in cold water than wash with your regular laundry. Avoid using fabric softeners or harsh detergents. Line dry or use a low-heat setting in the dryer. If a product is safe for washing your underwear, it’s generally safe for your cloth pads. If handwashing, make sure to rinse out all the soap thoroughly.
5. Do cloth pads leak?
Cloth pads, when properly fitted and changed as needed, are leak-resistant. They feature multiple absorbent layers and are designed to outperform disposables of equal length and absorbency. Ensure the printed side faces your body for best results. The backing is designed for grip, not absorption.
Cloth pads are designed to be leak-resistant, as they do not leak through the materials. However, they may leak from the sides, front, or back if the pad's shape, absorbency, or length does not match your individual flow or needs. If you can use a disposable pad for your period, a reusable will work just as well, if not better. Unlike disposable pads, reusable options can be customized to suit most situations. We can assist in finding solutions for any issues you may be having. Please reach out to us on Instagram at @aleareusables, by email at aleareusables@gmail.com, or through our website.
6. How long do cloth pads last?
When trying reusable pads for the first time, if you choose a pad with the same absorbency and length as a disposable pad you have used, you can expect it to last at least as long as that disposable pad. For example, if you typically change your disposable pad every three hours, you should expect the same for your reusable pad. Over time, however, you will become more comfortable and better able to gauge how long you can wear your pads. Due to the differences in how reusable and disposable pads absorb, you may find that reusable pads can last much longer than you are used to.
With proper care, cloth pads can last 5 to 15 years or more. Handmade reusable cloth pads made from custom fabric offer a long lifespan. The care of the pads is the biggest indicator of how long they will last. Processes such as bleach and high heat can cause the fabric to break down faster than necessary. It’s best to avoid the use of bleach unless it’s needed after an infection(ensure it is diluted as per bottle recommendations). To prolong the life of your pads, reduce water temperatures and dryer heat or hang them to dry. Reusable cloth pads need to be washed thoroughly; they do not need to be disinfected or sanitized unless you are giving them to another person to use.
7. Are cloth pads cost-effective?
Absolutely! While cloth pads have a higher upfront cost compared to disposables, their reusable nature means you won’t have to keep buying them. Over time, they offer substantial savings.
8. Can I use cloth pads during sports or physical activities?
Yes, cloth pads are suitable for most sports and physical activities. They stay in place and provide reliable protection. However, they aren’t suitable for swimming and may not work well for activities that involve prolonged pressure on the pubic bone, such as cycling or horseback riding. We recommend testing them during your activities before committing to a large collection for use during such activities.
9. Are cloth pads eco-friendly?
Yes, cloth pads offer a much more sustainable alternative to disposables by significantly reducing menstrual waste. While some may contain polyester fibers, their long-term use (5-15+ years) makes them more eco-friendly. These fibers enhance stain resistance, absorption, and leak protection, ensuring durability without sacrificing performance.
10. Are cloth pads suitable for heavy flow?
Yes! We offer a variety of absorbency levels, including options specifically designed for heavy flows. Our 16" Super Plus/Postpartum and Gusher pads provide maximum absorbency and extensive coverage. You can also customize your order for shorter pads with higher absorbency to meet your specific needs.
11. How many layers are in your pads?
- 8"-12" Moderate: 1 layer of Zorb
- 12"-14" Heavy: 2 layers of Zorb
- 16" Super Plus/Postpartum: 3 layers of Zorb
- 10”-14” Heavy Gusher: 4 layers of flannel and 1 layer of Zorb
- 16” Gusher: 4 layers of flannel and 2 layers of Zorb
12. Do cloth pads cause odor?
No, cloth pads generally do not cause odors. While a metallic smell may occur due to blood, they lack the "period funk" often associated with disposables, which can be caused by the chemicals and the lack of breathability of single-use products. Cloth pads are breathable and free of irritating substances, which helps prevent odor.
13. What materials are used in your cloth pads?
Our cloth pads consist of three main components: the topper, the absorbent core, and the backing. While the Zorb core (for absorbency) and soft-shell fleece backing (94% polyester, 6% spandex for water resistance) stay consistent across all pads (except liners), the topper varies. Below are the compositions of the different toppers:
- Cotton Spandex : 95% cotton, 5% spandex. Soft and breathable.
- Pique : 100% polyester. A textured, stay dry and breathable fabric that wicks moisture away, great for active days.
- Minky : 100% polyester. A plush, soft fabric with a velvet-like texture, offering a cozy feel. Great for cooler weather and winters.
- Cotton Velour : 90% organic cotton, 10% polyester. This topper is soft, plush (textured), organic, hypoallergenic, breathable, and absorbent, providing a luxurious and comfortable experience.
Each fabric is selected for comfort, durability, and stain resistance, ensuring your pads feel great and last a long time.
14. What size cloth pad should I choose?
Our reusable cloth pads are sold in inches from front to back, starting at 8" and increasing every 2 inches up to 16". Selecting the right size depends on your flow, activity level, and personal preferences. For heavier flows or nighttime use, longer pads like our 16" Super Plus/Postpartum or Gusher pads provide better coverage. A moderate flow might find a 12" Heavy or 14" Heavy pad ideal for overnight coverage, while lighter days may require a smaller pad, such as the 8" or 10" Moderate.
To find the perfect fit for you, consider trying a selection of sizes and absorbencies. Measuring your body from the pubic bone to the buttocks or using the length of your disposable pads as a reference can be helpful. Rounding up to the nearest even inch is a great starting point. Additionally, tampon absorbencies can serve as a good indication of where to begin. If you experience leaks with disposables, consider trying a longer size.
15. How many cloth pads will I need?
The number of pads needed per cycle varies widely between individuals. It’s best to keep a journal or record the number of changes you require during your cycle. You can also make a rough estimate of how many times you normally need to change in a day and start with that many pads. For example, if you change your moderate pad every 3 hours because you like the clean feeling, you might need about 4 pads during a 12-hour period. If you're awake for 15 hours a day, you'll need more, plus an overnight pad. If you tend to wake up at night and prefer a fresh pad, consider that in your calculations as well. Having longer overnight pads allows you to wash your pads at the end of each day, helping you stretch the cost over time and ensuring that the size, shape, and absorbency truly meet your needs before investing in your entire stash for your cycle. This approach enables you to find the most comfortable options that suit your unique flow. If you have a lighter flow but need to go longer stretches between changes—such as during work—consider using longer, more absorbent pads during those times.
16. Can I wear cloth pads overnight?
Absolutely! Our cloth pads are excellent for overnight use. For heavier flows, we recommend our 16" Super Plus/Postpartum or Gusher pads, which are designed for maximum absorbency and coverage. They will keep you protected and comfortable throughout the night. If you have a moderate flow, consider using a 12" Heavy or 14" Heavy pad, which also offers reliable coverage while allowing for comfort during sleep.
Many people first try cloth pads at night to see how they suit them in the comfort of their own homes, where they can take precautions if they're unsure how well cloth pads will work for them. It’s important to choose a pad that meets your individual absorbency needs to ensure you stay dry, comfortable, and leak-free throughout the night.
17. How do I store used cloth pads when I’m on the go?
When you’re out and about, you can store used pads in a small waterproof bag or "wet bag" until you can wash them. We offer two waterproof and breathable options for managing used pads away from home. Our waterproof pouches, called pad wrappers, are great for keeping clean pads clean in purses, pockets, or backpacks and for discreetly storing soiled pads when you need to change. Additionally, we have zippered wet bags that are larger and suitable for storing multiple pads, making them ideal for use at the office or school. Breathability is essential, as it allows the pads to dry out, reducing the risk of bacteria growth that can occur in disposed disposable products. Once home, add used products to your household storage until wash day. Our pads fold up discreetly, and the waterproof bags make it easy to carry them while you're away from home.
18. What’s the environmental impact of using cloth pads?
By switching to cloth pads, you significantly reduce menstrual waste. Each cloth pad can last up to 5-15 years with proper care, preventing hundreds of disposable pads from ending up in landfills. Just one pad replacing a disposable a month removes 12 disposables from landfills per year. Now think about using 5 or 10 reusables a month—how quickly the good adds up! Even if you only use cloth pads at home and never use them away from home, you can still make a substantial difference in your local community's waste systems. We use high-quality, long-lasting fabrics that can withstand hundreds of uses. While our pads contain some synthetic fibers for durability, their long lifespan makes them an eco-friendly choice over time.
19. Can cloth pads be used for incontinence?
Yes! Cloth pads can also be used for light incontinence. Our pads, especially the heavier absorbency options like the 12"-16" Heavy and Gusher pads, offer reliable protection for bladder leaks and incontinence issues, providing comfort and absorbency. However, it's important to note that bladder fluids are very different from menstrual fluids. Our cloth pads may not be able to handle full bladder empties, so trial and error is necessary to determine if the amount can be managed by our pads. For "mom bladders" that leak during laughs, sneezes, or jumping, our 8"-12" Moderate pads can work wonderfully. Even slightly larger leaks could be managed with our 12" and 14" Heavy pads.
20. Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we offer international shipping! Shipping times and costs vary depending on your location. Please note that international customers are responsible for any customs fees or duties upon delivery.