Quick answer
Rinse your reusable pad with cold water immediately after use, then machine wash with mild detergent and air dry to keep it absorbent and leakproof.
Why proper care matters for your reusable pad
Reusable pads are an eco-friendly period care choice, but their performance depends on how you clean them. If you skip rinsing or use fabric softener, the absorbent layers can lose efficiency, leading to leaks. Proper cloth pad maintenance also prevents odors and staining, keeping your pad comfortable for months.
Step-by-step cleaning process
- Cold rinse immediately after use: Hold the pad under cold running water to remove blood. Avoid hot water as it can set stains. Gently squeeze — do not wring — the fabric to release the absorbed fluid. A quick rinse prevents stains and odors from setting in.
- Pre-soak if needed: For heavier stains or if you can't wash right away, soak the pad in cold water with a splash of white vinegar or oxygen-based stain remover for 15–30 minutes. Do not use bleach, which can break down the absorbent fibers. Soaking helps lift stains without damaging the fabric.
- Machine wash with mild detergent: Place the rinsed pad in a mesh laundry bag and wash on a cold or warm cycle with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets — they coat the fibers and reduce absorbency. Tumble dry on low or line dry completely before storing. Never use fabric softener; it ruins the pad's leakproof performance.
Product spotlight
-
Hello Period | Reusable Pad: The Hello Period Reusable Pad can hold the equivalent of five regular pads or tampons. This high absorbency means you don't need to change as often, but proper cleaning is essential to maintain that capacity over time.
Hello Period | Reusable Pad
