Misconceptions About Reusable Menstrual Pads
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions that surround menstruation even today. From the most healthy diet to the most suitable period products, menstruators find themselves surrounded by hundreds of dos and don’ts when it comes to periods. And one of the most popular period-related topics in recent times is reusable menstrual pads.
Disposable sanitary pads create an unmanageable heap of toxic and hazardous waste. They take hundreds of years to decompose. We all know that, right?
Enter reusable menstrual pads! An eco-friendly, more convenient, and economical alternative to disposable pads. However, like most menstruation-related things, reusable pads also have several misconceptions associated with them.
With so many different opinions about reusable pads, it's totally understandable to be concerned about their hygiene and safety. And that’s why we wrote this article for you!
Today, we will talk about eight common misconceptions about reusable menstrual pads so that you have all the right information and don’t end up believing in hearsay.
8 Common Reusable Menstrual Pads Myths Busted
Today, more and more people are gravitating towards a sustainable lifestyle. They are adopting eco-friendly products and changing their habits to ensure that the environment remains safe. Reusable sanitary pads ensure just that.
They are a great option if you are looking for a sustainable and comfortable period product. So, let's clear some misconceptions about them and present you with the truth.
1. Reusable menstrual pads are unhygienic.
This is the most common myth about cloth-based sanitary pads. Cloth-based period pads are very hygienic if you use them in the right way. In fact, the hygiene of a product has more to do with how you use, clean, and store it rather than the product itself.
So, make sure to change them every four to six hours and wash and dry them properly before reusing them. Try to sun dry your reusable sanitary pads and store them in a clean and safe place. If you do all this, there is no need to worry about their hygiene.
2. Reusable menstrual pads are not safe.
This couldn't be further from the truth! In fact, eco-friendly sanitary napkins are safer than synthetic pads. This is because cloth-based pads do not contain any harmful chemical substances like plastic-based disposable sanitary pads.
Reusable pads are usually made from cotton, so they won’t cause itching, infection, or any allergic reaction. Cotton-based pads feel super soft against your skin and will provide you with a pleasant experience.
3. Reusable menstrual pads do not absorb well.
No matter what people say, reusable menstrual pads are very absorbent. There is no risk of staining, and you won’t feel uncomfortable in them. Most companies that offer reusable sanitary pads use a waterproof layer at the bottom along with high-quality absorbent material.
Cloth pads are comparatively thicker than your regular, non-biodegradable pads. So, you won’t have to worry about the sides folding or the pad shifting from its place. They also come in a variety of sizes to suit different types of flows and body sizes.
4. Reusable menstrual pads leak.
Like we just said, reusable menstrual pads are made from superior quality and highly absorbent material. They also have a waterproof bottom layer. So, the chances of them causing any leakage are very less.
However, accidents can happen with any period product, be it plastic-based pads, menstrual cups, or tampons. No product is perfect and fool-proof. So, to avoid any leakage, make sure to change your pad every four to six hours, depending on your flow.
5. Reusable menstrual pads smell.
Non-biodegradable period pads contain different kinds of chemicals that can often produce a pungent smell when they come in contact with menstrual fluid. This is the reason why plastic-based pads are heavily scented.
Since cloth-based menstrual pads do not contain any kind of chemical or toxic material, this prevents any unwanted reaction and ensures that the pads do not produce any odor when they come in contact with blood. So, if you are worried about experiencing any foul odor, rest assured, that won’t happen!
6. Reusable menstrual pads are not breathable.
This is one of the biggest myths ever!
Reusable sanitary pads are made by using organic cotton. And cotton is one of the most breathable, soft, and comfortable fabrics you’ll ever find. It allows air and water vapor to pass through it easily, ensuring you feel comfortable and remain dry at all times. The gentle cotton fibers also ensure that your intimate area remains healthy and free from any rashes or allergies.
7. Reusable menstrual pads will make me feel wet.
Again, this is not at all true.
Cotton is a cool and absorbent material. And since almost all reusable menstrual pads are made from cotton, they rarely seep any liquid out (unless you try to put them on for more than six hours, which is definitely not recommended).
The water-resistant bottom layer provides an added layer of safety. Thus, the chances of you feeling wet or soaked are negligible.
8. Reusable menstrual pads are difficult to clean.
You may feel a little bit nervous when cleaning your reusable menstrual pad for the first time, and that is understandable. But trust us, these pads are not at all difficult to wash.
You can hand wash them or even put them in your daily laundry with the rest of your clothes (don’t worry, your other clothes won’t be stained, and it definitely won’t be a bloodbath!)
However, if you want to be extra cautious, you can pre-wash your used cloth pads. Just soak them in water for about half an hour and then simply toss them in the washing machine with the rest of your clothes. Ensure to dry your reusable menstrual pads under direct sunlight properly, and you’ll be good to go!
The Bottom Line
Switching to reusable menstrual pads from your regular, plastic-based ones can feel overwhelming. Changing your menstrual habits is tough, and it takes a leap of faith to do that. We get you!
Managing periods is not easy, and your comfort should always come first. So, if you feel comfortable switching to a greener period product, reusable pads are an excellent choice- both for yourself and the environment. They are safe, comfortable, sustainable, and very economical.
So, dear menstruators, you can go ahead and use reusable sanitary pads without a single worry!