September 04, 2020 5 min read

"INFO: The team previously at hannahpad Canada launched their own new brand, illum! These blog posts have been written when we used to run hannahpad Canada. All information is still relevant and everything is the same! We simply changed the brand that we offer. :slightly_smiling_face: "

 

Innovation has come a long way through the years and reusable menstrual products are now a major competitor on the menstruation scene - each with their own set of benefits to offer. Still, there is a general lack of awareness around these reusable period products, giving rise to various misconceptions. 

Today, we’ll be focusing on reusable pads and the myths surrounding them. If you think about it, practically every person who has switched to usingquality reusable pads had to sort through these myths first. They were once in the same place as you are, as they did research to help them make the best choice for their health and well-being. To help, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide just for you! We’ll go through a few common washable pad myths - and together, we will debunk these myths one by one.

So sit back, relax, and let’s get started!

Closeup of a clean washable pad

Washable Pad Myth #1: They are Not Sanitary

Washable pads are just like other garments; they need to beproperly washed before being used again. But once that’s done, you have nothing else to worry about from a cleanliness standpoint. 

In fact,quality washable pads avoid the use of harmful chemicals that cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, infections, and other similar concerns. These types of pads also tend to be more breathable - meaning less dampness and fewer places for bacteria to accumulate. That’s a win in our books!

Washable Pad Myth #2: They Have the Same Chemicals as Disposable Pads

Disposable and reusable pads may look similar and have the same function, but when it comes to composition, it’s a whole other story. Reusable organic cotton pads do not have thetoxic components of most disposable pads and tampons.

Aside from plastic that hampers breathability and chokes the planet when thrown away, most disposable pads have harmful chemicals like styrene (a carcinogen), chloromethane (a reproductive toxicant), acetone (an irritant) and so on. 

Washable Pad Myth #3: They Cannot Be Used For Heavy Flows & Post-Partum Periods

People with heavier menstrual flows and those undergoing post-partum periods can feel absolutely safe with a quality reusable pad. Typically, large-sized disposable pads can hold up to10-15ml when fully soaked. It’s equivalent, the reusableOvernight cotton pad is able to hold a whopping45mlof blood. That is a difference of more than 200%! 

On top of the added absorbency, organic cotton pads tend to have more to offer in terms of coverage (or size). The length of reusable pads can be up to 2 inches more than their disposable counterparts - meaning there is added protection against front and back leaks. 

If you would like to learn more about how reusable pads compare to disposable pads in terms of absorbency and size, check outthis article of ours.

Washable Pad Myth #4: They Can’t Be Worn For Sleeping or Exercise Because They Are Prone to Clumping or Slipping

Quality reusable pads oftentimes have extra secure snaps as well as special grips on the bottom that ensure they do slip. The snaps and the grips tend to outlast the adhesive of disposable pads because such adhesives weaken when the disposable pad is repeatedly contorted. 

On the other hand, quality reusable pads do not disfigure, wrinkle, and clump like disposable pads, allowing them to maintain their proper placement. Reusable cotton pads are built to last with layers of 100% organic cotton. This means they are highly absorbent and flexible, easily adjustable to various sleeping or exercise positions.

Washable Pad Myth #5: They Come in Limited Sizes and Only Compatible With Certain Underwear

Washable pads come invarious sizes. This way, they are able to fit your needs in terms of how much absorbency you need, how much coverage you need, and what underwear you are wearing. Check out our available sizes and their absorbency:

  • Thongliner: 11 mL absorbency
  • Pantyliner: 15 mL absorbency
  • Longliner: 20 mL absorbency
  • Regular Pad: 35 mL absorbency
  • Large Pad: 45 mL absorbency
  • Overnight: 55 mL absorbency
  • Overnight Plus: 70 mL absorbency

Washable Pad Myth #6: Using Them Feels Uncomfortable & Damp

Reusable pads that are made of 100% organic cotton are known to be soft and comfortable. And because these pads do not have a sheet of plastic like disposable pads do, they are also more breathable - especially if they have aTPU coating (instead of a PUL fabric) as the outermost barrier like ours! 

TPU coated fabric is special because it is able to repel liquid for added security and keep any odours in, while still maintaining breathability. The breathability means there is less buildup of blood and sweat, leading to a more comfortable and drier menstruation experience. 

Washable Pad Myth #7: Changing Them in the Middle of the Day is Awkward and Smelly

Some people have apprehensions towards changing their reusable pads in public. What many don’t know is that these pads fold in such a way that the liquid-repellent TPU-coated layer is on the outside, locking in any blood. And once this bundle is placed in an opaque pouch with a zipper and then tucked into your bag or purse, you have absolutely nothing to worry about!

Washable Pad Myth #8: They Do Not Decompose Once Thrown Away

Washable pads decompose far faster than disposable pads. That may come as a surprise to some because washable pads are built to last while disposable pads aren’t - so why do disposable pads take longer? The simple answer to that isplastic. 

The extensive plastic component found in most disposable pads takes500 - 800 years to fully decompose. Meanwhile, washable pads made with 100% organic cotton only take around5 months to break down and become part of mother nature once more. 

If you want to know more about what to do with your reusable pad once it’s no longer usable, check outthis blog that breaks it all down.

Washable Pad Myth #9: They Don’t Last Very Long 

Au contraire! With proper care, washable menstrual pads can serve you for4-6 years. Just imagine how many comfortable, worry-free periods you’ll have and how much money you’ll save. Washable pads truly are a great investment. If you’re interested to learn more about how much you will save by making the switch, check out thisarticle of ours where we break down the costs.   

Washable Pad Myth #10: All Pads Are the Same

Not all brands are the same when it comes to their reusable menstrual pads, looking specifically at their materials and manufacturing processes. To get the most out of your investment, make sure to look for 100% unbleached organic cotton. Additionally, well-made washable menstrual pads would have about 4 - 5 internal layers for good absorbency and special grips on the bottom of the pad to help it stay in place.

Ready to Give Washable Pads a Try?

If you’re excited to start stocking up reusable pads for yourself, check out this article about how to knowhow many reusable pads you’ll need

You can also go ahead and see what we have available in our store - you’re sure to be delighted by thewide variety of pads we have to accommodate your specific needs!


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