Cloth Menstrual Pads - Introduction
The benefits of reusable cloth menstrual pads/sanitary towels are numerous. A pad can last for years and will become softer and more absorbent over time. They are comfortable to wear, less wasteful than disposables, will save money over the long term and are largely biodegradable once their useful life has ended. If made from natural fibres, cloth pads are unlikely to irritate delicate skin. They don't stick to your body. They are less likely to leak or develop odour if you're 'caught short' without a change, and won't make plasticy crinkling sounds if you're shy about changing in a public bathroom. On top of all that, they can be beautifully handcrafted luxury items - and fun!
There's an amazing choice of washable pads available today, from the plain and functional to designer fabrics and trendy brands. The choice of sizes and styles more than rivals that of the disposable brands, with everything from discreet pantyliners up to extra-long or extra-wide pads for heavy flow. Best of all, if none of the available pads suit your needs, you can make your own or easily find someone who will be happy to customise a set to your requirements.
Cloth converts have paid particular attention to solving common problems such as flooding/heavy bleeding and night leaks. Natural fibres such as hemp, bamboo and cotton are capable of holding a great deal of fluid, so pads do not need to be bulky or to have a waterproof layer in order to be effective. Many women like the extra feeling of security from using a leakproof barrier layer. Because preferences vary, many pad makers offer this as an optional extra. PUL, Fabrite, Procare and Naprap are some of the barrier fabrics you may see mentioned.
Once worn, a pad is simply rinsed in cold water, and then soaked in cold water or stored until laundry time. If you're on the move, a used pad can be stored in a plastic bag or other waterproof pouch - many pad makers also sell these. A stain treatment can be applied before laundering, if necessary, and it need not be a harsh chemical one to be effective. Pads can be air dried or often tumble dried - individual pad makers will tell you if their pads need special care. Fabric softener/conditioner should not be used as it reduces the absorbency of the fibres, so if the pad seems less soft or flexible after drying, a brisk rub - fabric against fabric - will restore softness.
Types of Reusable Menstrual Pad
All-in-One - These are the cloth equivalent of the modern high street disposable. Winged or wingless, worn inside close-fitting underwear, this type of pad is used and laundered in one piece. This makes them familiar and convenient.
Pocket-and-liner/Base-and-liner/All-in-Two - This can consist of a pocket with liners that slip inside, or a base or holder where liners are worn on top. Generally winged and fastened around underwear. Not nearly as fiddly to use as it sounds, and allows absorbency to be layered up and combined as needed. Faster to dry than all-in-one pads.
Folding - Flat pad folds up to give the required level of absorbency. Ideal for situations where fast drying is important. This can be something as simple as a flannel/washcloth folded into three then laid into underwear, or can be winged and have a hidden waterproof layer.
Belted - Instead of being secured inside underwear, this style is worn attached to a soft belt that can be worn as high or low on the hips as the wearer finds comfortable. Loops or tabs on the end of the pad secure it to the belt. The absorbent pad can be either a pocket-and-liner or a single piece.
Pantyliner/Liner - This type of pad is used for very light flow, as backup to internally-worn protection, and to deal comfortably with everyday vaginal moisture or perspiration. There's an enormous choice of cloth liners available, including ones suitable for thong-style underwear.
Interlabial - Halfway between a pantyliner and a tampon, an interlabial pad is worn between the labia, outside the vaginal opening. Useful for light flow or everyday discharge, or as backup to internally-worn protection.
Menstrual Panties/Customised Underwear - Various systems are available where the underwear itself has the absorbency built in, or has a facility to fasten in layers of absorbency. These systems can be extremely comfortable and convenient to use, particularly if you dislike winged pads, but are not as easy to find ready made as some of the other kinds.
Useful Links
The Cloth Pads Wiki - User-edited resource with lots of information on choosing, buying, using and caring for cloth pads.
Cloth Menstrual Pad - Wikipedia - Wikipedia article dealing with cloth menstrual pads. Description, use, perceived advantages and disadvantages, history.
Cloth Pads - Community on Livejournal discussing all aspects of washable menstrual pads.