Cloth pad care

Cloth Pad User Guide & Care Instructions

Cloth Pads are comfortable and easy to use, and simple cloth pad care will help keep them in great condition. Follow these care instructions to extend the life of your reusable cloth pads. 

 

Before your period

Pre-wash your pad by hand or machine wash, as per the instructions below, before using for the first time.

 

Washing cloth pads: cloth pad care essentials

Your reusable pads require washing after each use and may require stain removal treatment from time to time. Here are some tips for caring for your cloth pads so that they last you many years.

Pre-rinse your pad in cold water until the water runs clear or leave it to soak overnight.

You can machine or hand-wash your cloth pads.

Hand wash: Hand wash with detergent in warm water
Machine wash: Add to your next machine wash on a gentle, warm wash cycle.
Line dry, in the sun if possible. Cloth pads may take a little longer to dry than other garments due to the absorbent layers.
Do not use fabric softeners. Softeners coat the cotton fibres, reducing the pad's absorbency.
Do not bleach.
Do not tumble dry. Tumble dryer temperatures may destroy the waterproof layer on pads.
Do not iron.

It is normal for cotton cloth pads to shrink a little after the first wash, as they are cotton.

 

Fitting your pad

Place the pad inside the gusset of your underwear, with the label facing down and forward.
Fold the wings around the underwear gusset. Our cloth pads have 2 snaps or press studs on one wing to adjust the pad to suit the width of your gusset.
Snap the press studs together. You may need to adjust the pad to sit more toward the front or back of your underwear, depending on your bleed pattern.

 

After your period

Wash your pads as per the care instructions above.

To remove stains:
Some staining is completely normal due to the absorbent nature of natural cotton fibres. It is nothing to worry about. To minimise staining, rinse your pad in cold water soon after use. For heavier stains, gently rub a small amount of bicarb soda mixed with water into the area before washing. See our detailed guide on How to Prevent and Remove Stains on Your Cloth Pad.

To keep your pads fresh and hygienic:
A thorough wash with a good quality detergent is all that’s needed to keep your pads clean. For an occasional refresh, you can add a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. This helps remove odours and maintain freshness. Always rinse well and line dry in the sun where possible. Sunlight is a natural antibacterial agent.

 

Folding cloth pads

This method of folding a pad can be used to carry used pads or store clean pads.

Lay the cloth pad flat with the inside facing upward.
Fold the back of the pad toward the centre.
Fold the front of the pad toward the centre.
Snap the wings of the pads together.
Place used pads in a small wet bag or zip-lock bag to take home for washing.

Once your pads are clean, the same folding method can be used to store pads.

Always ensure pads are completely dry before folding and storing. 

author

Brenda Tootell is the founder of Period Shop and a menstrual health educator with more than 15 years’ experience in the reusable period care products space. She is passionate about helping people understand their bodies and find menstrual products that suit their anatomy, lifestyle and flow. Through Period Shop, Brenda has helped thousands of customers choose and use menstrual cups, discs, sponges and other reusable products with confidence. Her focus areas include body literacy, sustainable menstrual care and practical education that helps people feel more comfortable and informed about their cycles. Her goal is to make menstrual health information clear, accessible and empowering so people can make informed choices.