9 Reusable Period Pads You Can Throw In The Wash
The Best Reusable Cloth Menstrual Pads For A Zero Waste Period
If you’re not a fan of cups or tampons, menstrual pads are an effective solution for your periods. But not all pads are made equal! Menstruators can spend thousands of dollars over their lifetimes when it comes to disposable pads, and the materials used can agitate our intimate parts. (You know what we mean!)
For a cost-effective alternative that’s gentle on your body (and the planet), check out these reusable pads that can be used over the long term. Cloth pads can save you money, time, and hassle—so that you can focus on self-care during that time of the month.
If you’re looking to make the switch away from period pads, (reusable menstrual pads are not for everyone!) check out these menstrual cups, natural and organic tampons, and PFAS-free period underwear! Feel supported all period long, however you prefer.
1. Aisle
Natural Materials | Organic cotton & recycled polyester
Available Sizes | Mini, maxi, super
Price per pad | $16–$22 for one
Aisle is a certified B Corp that’s been revolutionizing menstrual hygiene for more than two decades. Blending sustainability and efficacy, Aisle’s reusable pads are ethically crafted in Vancouver using organic cotton and recycled polyester. The winged pads are available in a variety of sizes, patterns, and capacities for whatever your flow is. If you’re not sure where to start, you can try their matchmaker quiz to guide you.
SHOP AISLE
2. Rael
Made From | Certified organic cotton
Available Sizes | Petite to overnight
Price per pad | $12–$15 per pad; sold in a three-pack
For menstrual pads you can use again and again (up to 120 times, in fact!), check out Rael. These pads are made with five ultra-absorbent layers of certified organic cotton and wrapped in recyclable packaging, sans the chemicals or carcinogens you might find in mainstream pads. Rael also donates menstrual products to those in need in Los Angeles via ongoing partnerships.
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3. Ruby Love
Made From | Cotton & cashmere wool
Available Sizes | Medium flow
Price per pad | Less than $10 per pad; sold in packs of two or more
Avoid leaks, itches, and noticeable odors with Ruby Love’s double-sided pads. When one side gets full, the dri-tech mesh allows you to simply flip for hours of added protection. Because they’re made with natural materials, this plastic-free pad won’t irritate your nether-regions at all. Available in two- through 12-packs, these are some of the most affordable reusable pads out there.
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4. hannah
Made From | Certified organic cotton
Available Sizes | Pantyliners to overnight
Price per pad | $8–$27 for one; multi-packs available
Originally from Canada, hannah wants to make both periods and the planet happier with their certified organic pads. From “thongliners” to “super ultra overnights”, these will keep you (literally) covered throughout your entire cycle and they last for up to five years at a time. That’s our kind of sustainability!
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5. Marley’s Monsters
Natural Materials | 100% Cotton and polyester fleece
Available Sizes | Light
Price per pad | $12 for one; sold in packs of three
Etsy seller Marley’s Monsters handmakes Moon Pads in Eugene, Oregon. The two layers of 100% cotton flannel come in a variety of cute prints like rainbow chevron or navy Shibori as well as solid black. These reusable pads are meant to be used on lighter days or as back up with your cup, and come with convenient snap wings to secure them in place.
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6. Dame
Natural Materials | Cotton and bamboo
Available Sizes | Liner, regular, night
Price per pad |$14–$16 per pad; multi-packs available with discounts
Made with their patented technology, Dame reusable period pads have five layers of fast-wicking and odor-proof material to keep you safe and dry. With a super soft outer shell of organic cotton and lyocell to keep you comfy and a liner designed to absorb more than 10 times its weight in two seconds, these washable pads are bound to become a favorite. Add on a reusable dry bag to make these extra convenient for when you’re on the go!
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7. Homestead Emporium
Made From | Bamboo and/or cotton
Available Sizes | Light to heavy flow
Price per pad | $8–$32 for one; multi-packs available
Homestead Emporium is a family business from Saskatchewan in Canada offering everyday reusable products, including scrunchies, pads, and tissues. Each pair is one-of-a-kind handsewn from bamboo and/or cotton; there are also dozens of sizes and absorbencies to choose from. Inclusively designed and sustainably made—we love how plush and thoughtful these reusable pads are.
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8. GladRags
Made From | Organic cotton
Available Sizes | Pantyliners to overnight
Price per pad | $13–$26 for one; multi-packs available
GladRags’ cloth pads are the perfect alternative to disposables, holding the same amount of blood as regular pads. Designed with wings and refillable inserts, GladRags are handmade in Oregon using natural and organic cotton. With regular care, you can hold on to these maxi pads for five years. If you’re brand new to cloth pads, you can take their survey to get a tailored recommendation for your perfect reusable period product.
Shop GladRags
9. Bamboo House
Made From | Cotton and bamboo
Available Sizes | Light through abundant
Price per pad | £10–£13 for one; multi-packs available
UK readers, Bamboo House is a wonderful one-stop shop for zero waste goods for your everyday needs, including sanitary pads! These odor-free pads are made with natural cotton and biodegradable bamboo, so they’re better for you and the environment. Take your pick from a dozen colorful designs or up to 20 pads at once, depending on your needs. You can also grab a mini-storage bag for when you’re on-the-go.
