Washing reusable cloth pads is a straightforward process that helps maintain their hygiene and longevity, making them a sustainable choice for menstrual care. The key is to address bloodstains promptly and follow a simple washing routine.
Pre-Washing Steps for Cloth Pads
Proper pre-treatment is crucial to prevent stains and ensure your pads are thoroughly cleaned.
1. Initial Rinse and Soak in Cold Water
As soon as you remove a used pad, it's best to rinse or soak it.
- Immediate Action: Rinse the pad under cold running water or place it in a basin of cold water as soon as possible. This step is vital to prevent bloodstains from setting into the fabric.
- Why Cold Water? Hot water can cause blood proteins to coagulate and permanently set stains, making them much harder to remove. Always use cold water for the initial rinse.
2. Rinse Until the Water Runs Clear
Continue rinsing or soaking the pad until the water running from it is clear.
- Thorough Rinse: Gently squeeze the pad while rinsing to help release the blood. You can change the soaking water a few times if necessary until the water is completely clear, indicating most of the blood has been removed.
- Temporary Storage: If you're not washing immediately, after the initial rinse, you can store damp (but not dripping wet) pads in a wet bag or a breathable laundry hamper until laundry day. Avoid airtight containers for too long, as this can encourage mildew growth.
Washing Cloth Sanitary Pads
Once the initial rinse is complete, your pads are ready for a thorough wash. You have options for both machine and hand washing.
Machine Washing
Most reusable cloth pads are designed to be machine washable, offering a convenient cleaning method.
- Load the Washer: Add your rinsed cloth pads to your washing machine along with other laundry, such as towels or intimates. Avoid washing with heavily soiled items or those that might snag the pads (like items with zippers or hooks).
- Detergent: Use your preferred regular laundry detergent. Avoid detergents with harsh chemicals, fabric softeners, or bleach, as these can reduce the absorbency of the pads and irritate sensitive skin. Opt for eco-friendly or mild detergents if possible.
- Water Temperature: Wash on a cold or warm cycle. While the initial rinse should be cold, a warm wash can be effective for a deeper clean without setting stains, especially after the pads have been thoroughly rinsed of blood.
- Cycle: A regular or delicate cycle is usually sufficient.
Hand Washing
Hand washing is an excellent option if you prefer a gentler approach or don't have enough pads for a full machine load.
- Prepare a Basin: Fill a clean basin or sink with cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild laundry detergent.
- Agitate and Scrub: Submerge the rinsed pads and gently agitate them. You can rub the pads against themselves or use a soft brush to remove any lingering stains.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After washing, rinse each pad thoroughly under cold running water until all soap residue is gone and the water runs clear. Soap residue can reduce absorbency and potentially cause skin irritation.
Drying Your Pads
Proper drying is crucial for hygiene and to maintain the shape and absorbency of your cloth pads.
1. Pull the Wet Pad into Shape
Before drying, gently pull the wet pad into its original shape.
- Maintain Integrity: This helps the pad dry evenly and prevents it from shrinking or deforming, ensuring a comfortable fit for future uses.
2. Dry on a Clothesline or Use the Tumble Dryer
You have two main options for drying your pads:
- Air Drying (Clothesline/Drying Rack):
- Best Option: Air drying, especially outdoors on a clothesline, is highly recommended. Sunlight acts as a natural sanitizer and can help to bleach out any minor residual stains without the need for chemicals.
- Benefits: It's gentle on the fabric, extends the life of your pads, saves energy, and naturally freshens them.
- Placement: Clip them to a line or lay them flat on a drying rack. Ensure good air circulation for faster drying.
- Tumble Drying:
- Low Heat Setting: If you need to use a tumble dryer, always choose a low heat setting. High heat can damage the absorbent layers, break down waterproofing materials, and potentially shorten the lifespan of your pads.
- Avoid Fabric Softeners: Do not use dryer sheets or fabric softeners, as they can coat the fibers and reduce the pad's absorbency.
Summary of Cloth Pad Washing Steps
For a quick reference, here’s a summary of the essential steps for washing your reusable cloth pads:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Initial Rinse/Soak | Immediately after use, rinse the pad under cold water or soak it in a basin of cold water. This prevents bloodstains from setting. |
| 2. Rinse Until Clear | Continue rinsing and squeezing the pad until the water running off it is completely clear. |
| 3. Main Wash | Machine Wash: Place rinsed pads in the washing machine with other laundry. Use a mild detergent and a cold or warm cycle. Hand Wash: Use a basin with cold/lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent, gently scrubbing, then rinse thoroughly. |
| 4. Reshape | Gently pull the wet pad back into its original shape to help it dry evenly and maintain its integrity. |
| 5. Dry | Air dry on a clothesline or drying rack for best results (sunlight is a natural sanitizer). Alternatively, tumble dry on a low heat setting. Avoid high heat and fabric softeners. |
By following these simple steps, you can keep your reusable cloth pads clean, hygienic, and in excellent condition for many cycles to come, contributing to a more sustainable period routine. Learn more about sustainable menstrual products here.
