How to Wash Reusable Menstrual Pads

Cloth pads are comfortable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective — and with the right care, they can last for years. Below is a simple guide on how to wash and maintain reusable menstrual pads to keep them clean, fresh, and long-lasting.

 

1. If you can, rinse after use

After removing your pad, rinse it under cold water to remove as much blood as possible. Avoid hot water at this stage — hot water can set stains and make them harder to remove later.

If you’re not washing right away, you can store them in a wet bag.

 

2. Soaking (Optional)

If you did not rinse your pads after use, soaking them before washing can make cleaning easier and help prevent stains.

Let your pads soak in cold water for a few hours or overnight. Change the water every day if soaking for longer than a few hours to prevent odor or bacterial growth.

You can add a small amount of mild detergent, soap or baking soda to help remove stains.

 

3. Washing

You can wash your cloth pads with your regular laundry. Use cold water and avoid fabric softeners or bleach — they can reduce absorbency and damage the waterproof backing.

 

4. Drying

Air drying is best. Hang your pads on the during rack or outside in a sunny spot.

If using a dryer, choose a low heat setting to protect the waterproof layers and snaps.

Avoid ironing or placing pads on heaters, as high heat can damage their structure.

 

Reusable menstrual pads are an empowering, sustainable choice — and caring for them is easy once it becomes part of your routine. Treat them gently, and they’ll support you comfortably for years while helping you reduce your environmental footprint.