Washing Instructions (more in depth)

Important Care Instructions for Your Reusable Cloth Pads

Please wash and dry all pads before first use to ensure optimal performance and softness.

Important Care Tips:

• Avoid bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets. Bleach can damage the fabric, causing fiber breaks, holes, and fading. Fabric softener and dryer sheets leave residues that create a build-up on the fibers, reducing absorbency and performance.

Storage After Use: After use, it's recommended to store your pads in a dry, ventilated environment to avoid any unpleasant odors caused by moisture. You can rinse the pad immediately after use, but dry storage is preferred. Dry storage involves storing your used pads in a wet bag, net bag, or bin with airflow, which allows the pads to dry out completely until you're ready to wash them. This method prevents the development of bad smells due to moist, air-tight conditions.

Washing Your Pads: Once you’re ready to wash, here are three options for cleaning your pads effectively:

1. Option 1: Soak and Wash

   • Fill a pail with cool water and add some oxi-clean powder to pre-soak your pads for a few hours (or overnight). This helps to loosen up the blood before washing.
   • After soaking, dump out the water and add the pads to the washing machine. Bulk it up to a regular-sized load. Use your regular laundry detergent, plus any other laundry boosters you'd like, except fabric softener.

2. Option 2: Quick Wash in the Machine

   • Add your soiled pads to the washing machine and run a quick wash with cold water, oxi-clean, and your laundry detergent.
   • After the quick wash, bulk up to a regular-sized load and wash with your usual detergent and any additional laundry boosters, except fabric softener.

3. Option 3: Handwashing

   • Follow the pre-soak method from Option 1.
   • To handwash, apply a small amount of liquid or powdered laundry soap to the pad and rub the fabric together to work it in.
   • Once clean, rinse the pad in fresh water until all detergent is removed, and the water runs clear. Avoid twisting the pad, but gently squeeze out excess water.
   • Flatten the pad and hang to dry.

Drying Your Pads: You can either use a dryer (set to medium heat) or hang your pads to air dry.

• If using a dryer, avoid dryer sheets to prevent build-up.
• Alternatively, use a drying strap to chain your pads together and hang them from a towel bar or shower curtain rod for efficient drying.

Longevity of Your Pads: With proper care, your cloth pads can last 5-10 years or more, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for years to come. Minor staining or discoloration can occur over time, but this does not mean your pad is not clean.

Dealing with Stains: To keep your pads looking fresh, try these methods for removing stains:

1. Hydrogen Peroxide: Apply directly to the stain and let it sit. You’ll notice bubbles as it works. Be cautious with natural fibers, as undiluted hydrogen peroxide should not be left on for more than 30 minutes to avoid breaking down the fibers. Once the stain starts to fade, wash as normal.

2. Sunning: Dampen the pad with water and place it in direct sunlight. Rewet as needed until the stain is gone, then wash as usual.

3. Stain Stick or Laundry Bar: Dampen the pad, rub the stain stick on the affected area, and then rub the fabric together to work it in. Once the stain has lightened or disappeared, wash the pad normally.

Tip for Long-Lasting Prints: If you're prone to fading or staining, try fabrics like Pique or Minky, which are made from polyester and are known for their long-lasting, vibrant prints.

Using Diluted Bleach: Diluted bleach can be used when extra sanitization is needed, such as after an illness or if you are donating or giving away used pads. However, diluted bleach is not necessary for regular use and should be used sparingly to avoid damaging the fabric.

With these care instructions, you can ensure your reusable pads stay in top condition, offering long-lasting comfort, protection, and sustainability.