Introduction
A very important question about reusable pads is how to wash reusable pads. To get the most out of your reusable sanitary pads, it is important to take proper care of them. This includes knowing how to wash them properly to maintain hygiene, prevent stains, and extend their lifespan. So, how can we ensure that we wash our reusable sanitary pads thoroughly? In this guide, we will walk you through the basic steps to wash your reusable pads so that they stay clean and ready to use.
How to Wash Reusable Pads?
Many people ask us how to wash reusable pads. It is a simple thing. Below I have shared step-by-step washing procedures. Even if you are already using reusable pads, you may find these steps useful.
1. Rinse Immediately After Use
To prevent stains from setting and ensure your pad is as clean as possible, it’s best to rinse it in cold water as soon as possible after use, as cold water helps prevent blood from seeping into the fabric. Simply hold the pad under cold water and gently rinse until the water runs clear. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause stains to set.
If you’re in an office or somewhere else where it’s not convenient to rinse your pad right away, you can store your used pads in a wet bag, but be sure to wash them within 24 hours to prevent bacteria from growing.
2. Pre-treat Stains
On heavy days, you may find stains that you cannot remove by rinsing. At this time, you can try using soap, baking soda, or a stain remover specifically for fabrics, gently applying it to the stained area.
Be careful not to scrub too hard, which may damage the fabric or affect its absorbency. Gentle treatment methods are ideal for removing stains without compromising pad integrity.
3. Hand Wash or Machine Wash
Hand Wash: If you prefer to hand wash a reusable pad, simply soak the reusable pad in water with a stain remover for a few hours, preferably with the stained side facing the water. After soaking, gently rub the stained area of the mat with your hands, then rinse thoroughly to ensure no soap or detergent remains.
Machine Wash: If you choose to machine wash, use a mild detergent and set the machine to the gentle cycle, using cold water. Avoid using fabric softener or bleach, as these may irritate the skin. Make sure to wash the pad separately from soiled clothes to avoid cross-contamination.
4. Squeeze Out the Moisture from Your Pads
After rinsing or washing your reusable pad, it’s important to gently squeeze out any excess water. This helps prevent the mat from becoming too heavy and allows it to dry faster.
To do this, fold the pad in half and press gently with both hands, starting in the middle and moving outwards. Be careful not to twist or distort the mat, as this may cause damage to the stitching or absorbent layer.
5. Drying the Reusable Pads
Drying your reusable mats properly is just as important as washing them. Before hanging them out to dry, stretch the damp cloth mat in the opposite direction to restore the mat’s original shape to prevent the cotton from shrinking. Avoid using a dryer, as the high temperatures can damage the fabric and elastic material, shortening the life of the mat.
You can hang them on a clothesline or lay them flat in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Alternatively, you can choose to air dry them in the sun, which is a great natural disinfectant.
★Additional Tips for Washing Reusable Pads
- How often to wash: Wash your reusable pads after every use. If you use pads throughout the day, it’s important to wash them at the end of the day to maintain hygiene.
- Keep your pads smelling fresh: If you’re concerned about odor, add a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, to the wet bag to keep your pads smelling fresh. However, be sure to only use a few drops, as too much can irritate sensitive skin.
- Rotate: Rotating a few reusable pads ensures that you always have a clean pad on hand while you wash others. It’s best to have at least 4-6 pads on hand, depending on your flow and how often you wash them.
How to Fold a Reusable Pad?
Folding the reusable pad is simple and creates a compact package that protects the clean side and is easy to store or carry. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start with the clean side up: Lay the reusable pad flat with the absorbent side facing up.
2. Fold the ends inward: Fold the top and bottom ends of the reusable pad toward the center so they overlap slightly.
3. Fold the wings: Wrap the wings around the folded reusable pad, making sure the wings hold the mat firmly in place.
4. Snap the wings together: Use the snaps or fasteners on the wings to secure the mat in the folded position.
How to Store Reusable Pads？
Once the reusable pads are clean and dry, you should store the clean pads in a dry, cool place away from moisture. Here are the proper ways to store clean reusable pads:
1. Make sure the pad is completely dry: Before storing, make sure the pad is completely dry to prevent mold.
2. Use breathable bags or containers: Store pads in cotton bags, mesh bags, or any breathable fabric container to allow air circulation and prevent odors. Avoid using sealed plastic bags or containers that can absorb moisture.
3. Choose a cool and dry place: Store pads in a cool and dry place away from moisture or direct sunlight.
4. Organize by size or type: For convenience, sort pads by size or absorbency in separate compartments or bags.
FAQ
What temperature do you use to wash your reusable pads?
To effectively wash your reusable pads, always rinse and wash the pads in cold water to prevent stains from setting and protect the pads. Warm water is suitable for machine washing, but avoid using hot water, as it can damage the pad and cause stains to set.
Can the cloth pad be washed with other clothes?
Cloth pads can be washed with other clothing, but rinse the pad thoroughly in cold water before washing to prevent staining other clothing. Place the cloth pad in a mesh laundry bag to protect the pad while washing. Avoid washing with heavily soiled clothing to prevent cross-contamination.
Can you soak reusable pads overnight?
You can soak reusable pads in cold water overnight, but wash them as soon as possible the next day because they can develop odors if they are soaked for too long.
How do I get rid of odors from reusable pads?
To remove odors from cloth pads, wash them thoroughly with a mild detergent and add a tablespoon of white vinegar or baking soda to the wash. Once you are done, it is best to dry them in the sun, as sunlight is a natural deodorizer and disinfectant.
How do I remove stains from reusable pads?
Pre-treat stains with baking soda, vinegar, or a natural stain remover, then wash as usual.
Conclusion
Properly washing and caring for your reusable sanitary pads will ensure they stay clean and extend their lifespan. As a leading manufacturer of health textiles, Oulin suggests that you learn these tips about how to wash reusable pads so that you can keep them in tip-top condition and ready for every period. With these cleaning tips, you can protect your pads and your body.
