How to Wash Reusable Pads: Eco-Friendly Hand & Machine Techniques
Are you ready to make a splash in eco-friendly period care? Say hello to reusable pads! These sustainable superstars are not just kind to your wallet but also to Mother Earth.
This informative blog post will dive into "how to wash reusable pads" like a pro. From handwashing hacks to marvelous machine methods, we've got you covered.
We'll also share some fantastic tips for keeping your pads in tip-top shape and discuss why switching from disposable pads is a game-changer for our beautiful planet. So, buckle up and prepare for an adventure in eco-conscious period care!
How to Wash Reusable Pads By Hand?
- Hold the pad under cold running water until most blood has been removed. You can also soak it in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing.
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent, and work it into the pad with your hands or a soft brush. Pay special attention to any stained areas.
- Run cold water over the pad to remove detergent and any remaining blood.
- Press the pad between your hands or against a clean towel to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the pad, as this can damage the fabric.
- Hang the pad to air-dry or lay it flat, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading and material damage.
How to Wash Reusable Pads In The Washing Machine?
- Rinse the pads in cold water or run a pre-rinse cycle in your washing machine.
- Place the pads in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from damage. Wash with similar colors and avoid overloading the machine.
- Use a cold or warm water setting on a delicate cycle. Add a gentle, fragrance-free detergent without fabric softeners or bleach.
- Air-dry pads as you would when washing by hand.
Top Tips for Extending Your Reusable Pad's Lifespan
- Fold and secure them with a snap or button before placing them in a waterproof bag until you're ready to wash them.
- Address stains immediately by applying a stain remover, hydrogen peroxide, or lemon juice before washing.
- Using various pads ensures that they wear evenly, prolonging their lifespan.
- Always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for washing and drying to maintain the pads' quality.
What are reusable period pads?
Reusable period pads are washable, absorbent menstrual pads made from cotton, bamboo, or hemp. They come in various sizes and absorbency levels to cater to different needs and preferences. These pads reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and promote a more sustainable lifestyle by replacing disposable products.
Disposable pads significantly contribute to landfill waste, with an estimated 20 billion pads and tampons discarded yearly in the United States alone.
Most pads contain plastic components, such as the outer lining and adhesive strips, which take hundreds of years to decompose. The production process of disposable pads also consumes vast amounts of water and energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
Switching to reusable period pads reduces the number of disposable products in landfills, which take years to decompose.
Using washable pads lowers your carbon footprint and saves resources like water and energy in manufacturing disposable products. Many reusable pads are made from organic, sustainable materials, lessening their environmental impact.
By choosing reusable pads, you also support a circular economy that prioritizes reducing waste and conserving resources. Reusable pads are also really easy to use!
What's the major issue with conventional pads?
Many conventional sanitary pads contain potentially harmful chemicals that can impact human health and the environment. Here is a closer look at some of these toxic substances:
- Dioxins are highly toxic pollutants that can be produced as byproducts during the bleaching process of wood pulp used to create the absorbent core of disposable pads. Exposure to dioxins has been linked to hormone disruption, immune system impairment, and even cancer.
- Phthalates are chemical compounds often found in the plastic components of disposable pads, such as the outer lining and adhesive strips. Phthalates have been associated with endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and developmental problems.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature and can be released from disposable pads. Some VOCs have been linked to respiratory irritation, headaches, and liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage.
- Many pads are scented with synthetic fragrances, which can contain numerous undisclosed chemicals, some of which may cause allergies, skin irritation, and hormone disruption.
- Conventionally grown cotton used in some disposable pads can be treated with harmful pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals' residue may be present in the final product and can cause skin irritation, allergies, or other health issues.
A final word on caring for your reusable pads
Reusable period pads are a smart, eco-friendly choice for menstrual care. By learning how to wash and care for these pads correctly, you can enjoy their benefits while reducing your environmental impact.
Not only will you contribute to a healthier planet, but you'll also experience the comfort and cost savings of using sustainable menstrual products. So, take the first step towards a more eco-conscious period by choosing reusable pads and implementing proper washing techniques!
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