The cloth pad is placed in the panties, just like the disposable pads. After use, it must be washed and when dry, it can be reused.
Who has ever heard those grandma stories that talked about a “cloth” to use when you were menstruating? Well, this “cloth” is nothing less than a cloth absorbent, also known as a reusable or ecological absorbent.
However, nowadays, cloth pads are not the same as they used to be. Currently they are made with different fabrics, are breathable, waterproof and even have a dry touch option.
It is used in panties, just like the pads that women are used to using. However, there are two differences: after use, it must be washed and when it dries, it can be reused. Furthermore, its production process is different from the traditional absorbent, which tends to be harmful to the ecological environment. In other words, a great option for those who care about environmental sustainability.
Therefore, in today’s article you will answer all your possible doubts about this ecological absorbent. So pay attention and let’s go!
How is cloth pad made?
Currently, the cloth absorbent consists of three parts: the external part, which is in contact with the panties, completely waterproof; the internal part, which is in contact with the skin; and between the two, a “filling” with absorbent layers. Furthermore, these parts are made from 100% cotton fabric.
It is also possible to find options similar to the traditional absorbent. Korui cloth pads, for example, have options for internal parts with a dry touch, leaving the skin dry, and a natural touch, for those with sensitive skin.
Furthermore, generally all ecological absorbents have flaps with buttons, so that they stay fixed to the panties.
How to use the cloth absorbent?
As seen previously, the use of tampons is very similar to traditional absorbents. See the step by step below:
- Preferably, choose tighter panties. This way, the possibility of it moving is less;
- Take the cloth absorbent and wrap it in the panties, taking its flaps and using the buttons to keep it secure;
- Unlike traditional absorbents, the cloth absorbent does not have glue on the outside. Therefore, if it is uncomfortable, you can adjust it by pulling it forward or backward, without the need to stick and take it off, like disposable pads.
Therefore, you can see how simple and practical this step by step is. But there is a very common question among women: do reusable pads leak? In this regard, you can rest assured, as it is very resistant. Therefore, it does not tear and can last for many years.
How to wash?
In the past, cloth pads were not waterproof and had a low absorption capacity. Therefore, they needed to be changed every hour, and when they ran out of alternative layers of absorbent, they had to be washed by hand, thus requiring a little work.
However, as nowadays the material is different, it does not need to be changed from time to time. And best of all, when washing time, it can be placed in the machine. Therefore, check out this step-by-step guide for better understanding:
Pre-wash
There are three ways to wash cloth absorbents: soaking, in the washing machine or washing by hand. But first of all, the ideal is that after use, it should be left in a clean place until it is time to take it. Therefore, it is recommended to leave them in waterproof bags, as they make washing easier by keeping the absorbent moist.
But remember, the sooner the pad is washed or left to soak, the easier it will be to clean. Therefore, whenever possible, remove excess from the absorbent and prepare it for cleaning. Also, to avoid stains, put a little hydrogen peroxide on it and let it act for a few minutes. Once this is done, you will now learn how to wash according to the three ways seen above.
Sauce
If you chose the option to put it in the sauce, then pay attention:
- After removing the excess, leave your pad to soak for 30 minutes in cold water, with or without soap;
- It must be in cold water, as hot water helps to impregnate stains;
- You can leave it to soak for longer, but if you choose to do so, you need to change the water every 12 hours.
Wash
As seen previously, it is possible to wash by hand or in the machine. On the machine it is very practical. After removing the excess, just place the absorbent cloth with your other clothes and wash normally. Now if you wash it by hand, it’s still very practical! This is because you can even wash it while you are taking a shower.
Additionally, tea tree oil or eucalyptus can help disinfect the pad. Therefore, after using any option, the absorbent must be placed to dry. It can be dried in the sun or even at low temperatures in the dryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 – Do cloth pads get stained?
No. An example is Korui absorbents, which have resistant layers and a brown color, that is, it is difficult to see any stains. But if in doubt, apply hydrogen peroxide to it before washing, thus avoiding stains.
2 – Do cloth pads leave an odor?
No. What many people don’t know is the odor we smell when we have those days, it doesn’t come from menstruation. This bad smell comes from the reaction of the blood with the chemicals present in disposable pads. Therefore, cloth absorbents are odor-free, due to the fact that they are free of chemicals in their composition.
3 – Do cloth pads come in different sizes?
Yes. Just like traditional pads, cloth pads have several options for you. There are pads with flaps and without flaps, mini, normal, intense and night pads.
Advantages and Disadvantages of cloth absorbent
Just like the traditional tampon and menstrual cup, the ecological pad also has its advantages and disadvantages. Because it is reusable, the cloth pad is sustainable. Therefore, it avoids the production of non-degradable waste that has such an impact on the ecological environment. Furthermore, it has no odor and is super comfortable to use, unlike disposable pads.
However, its only disadvantage is the same as the methods found in the pharmacy: the concern about leaks. But if your insertion occurs correctly, you can be worry-free that this won’t happen.
So, did you like the article? Therefore, also check out the use of tampons.
Sources: Korui, Personare, Moça Criada
Images: Veja São Paulo, Inciclo, Korui, Mundo Poo, Personare, Mercado Livre
