Cloth Menstrual Pads. Go Green!

Reusable cloth menstrual pads will aide in lessening your contribution to the landfill. They also avoid the perils of plastic production associated with disposable pads and stop your contribution of wasted plastic packaging that will not biodegrade. Go one step farther by choosing organic cloth pads and save the environment from chemical pesticide pollution too. Also, each cloth pad last about 5-6 years!

* They reduce solid waste associated with disposable tampons and pads.
* They avoid the production of plastics and other chemicals found in conventional pads and tampons.

Cloth pads reduce the scent of menstrual blood on the cloth pad. As they are more breathable than the average disposable sanitary pads, they carry less odor. The cloth fabric allows for more air flow and inhibits fungal and bacteria growth that cause irritation and infection. And since cloth pads are not made from any synthetic material, women have reported that they experience less irritation while using them. They are less likely to cause rashes, contact dermatitis, as well as helping women afflicted with certain types of vaginitis. Women with sensitive skin and allergies may find cloth pads to be more comfortable against their skin.Also, there are some women who have reported that since using cloth pads they have experienced shortened periods and their PMS symptoms have reduced.

The average women goes through about $150 - $200 worth of menstrual products a year. And the average woman tosses between 10,000 and 15,000 tampons, pads, and applicators in her lifetime. Cloth menstrual pads can be reused for around 5-6 years. And even longer if you take care of them!

Most women need a minimum of 4-6 pads for their monthly cycle. Depending on how often you want to do wash. A combination of pads will be needed for different times throughout your cycle; for instance, you may wear a medium pad during the day, then a large at night and then a small one at the end of your cycle. As women can be so different there is a range of pads designed to perform for every size, shape and menstrual flow rate. Along with many fabric and colour choices to nurture your womanhood. Indulge yourself!

The easiest way to clean your pads is to use a container with a tight fitting lid and put a few inches of cold water in it. Drop your used pads in as needed. Drain and refill the container with fresh water twice a day. Then, on wash day, just pour out the water and put the wet pads into the washer with the days laundry. That's it!

Washing Don'ts:
*Never used chlorine bleach! It weakens the fabric and may ruin your pads.
*Never wash your pads in hot water! It will set the iron from your blood, making a permanent stain.
*Never use fabric softener. It will make the fabric less absorbent and can lead to leaks.
*If you develop a yeast infection while using your pads it can contaminate the pads. Either tea tree oil or vinegar in some soaking water can help remove any potential stowaways.

If you find yourself away from home you can use the rinse method to clean your pads. Simply rinse out your pads as they are used or at the end of the day and place them in a waterproof cloth wet bag. You can find wet bags with zippered, drawstring, or hook and loop style closures to keep any odors in. Also, some wet bags have separate storage compartments for wet and clean pads.