Reusable menstrual pads are becoming increasingly popular as more women look for sustainable and cost-effective period care options. But a common question remains: is it really safe to wash and reuse menstrual pads? The answer is yes — as long as they’re made from the right materials and cleaned properly.

1. What Are Washable Menstrual Pads?

Washable or reusable pads are typically made from absorbent natural fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or hemp, often with a waterproof backing layer such as polyurethane laminate (PUL). Unlike disposable pads that end up in landfills after one use, reusable pads can be washed, dried, and reused for several years.

A 2019 study in Reproductive Health found that reusable menstrual products are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and safe when properly maintained. With increasing awareness of plastic waste and menstrual stigma, these products offer a sustainable alternative for menstruators worldwide.

2. Hygiene and Safety Considerations

The key to safely using washable pads lies in cleaning practices. Improper washing or drying can lead to bacterial growth, odor, or irritation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend that reusable menstrual products be washed thoroughly with soap and clean water, and dried completely under sunlight or in a well-ventilated area before reuse (UNICEF, 2019). Sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant due to its ultraviolet (UV) rays, which help kill bacteria and fungi.

If sunlight isn’t available, using a hot iron or tumble dryer on low heat can help ensure pads are fully dry. Pads should never be stored damp, as moisture encourages microbial contamination.

Studies in India and Kenya found that users of reusable pads who practiced proper washing and drying techniques experienced no higher risk of infections compared to users of disposable products.

3. Environmental and Economic Benefits

Each disposable pad can take 500–800 years to decompose in a landfill due to its plastic content. On the other hand, reusable pads can last 2–5 years, drastically reducing waste.

Economically, the savings are significant. A single reusable pad may cost more upfront, but over time it can replace dozens of disposable pads each cycle, making it a more sustainable investment for individuals and families.

Environmental researchers have also highlighted that switching to reusable menstrual products could reduce global plastic waste by over 200,000 tons annually if adopted widely.

4. When to Replace Reusable Pads

Even with proper care, reusable pads do wear out. Replace them when the fabric becomes thin, stained, or loses absorbency. Most brands recommend replacement every 2–3 years, depending on frequency of use and washing conditions.

5. The Bottom Line

Yes — you can absolutely wash and reuse menstrual pads safely. The most important steps are using clean water, soap, thorough drying, and proper storage. When cared for properly, reusable pads are a hygienic, sustainable, and empowering choice that benefits both your body and the planet.

References:

• Kaur, R., Kaur, K., & Kaur, R. (2019). Menstrual hygiene, management, and waste disposal: Practices and challenges faced by girls/women of developing countries. Reproductive Health, 16(1), 1–9.

• Phillips-Howard, P. A., Nyothach, E., Ter Kuile, F. O., et al. (2016). Menstrual cups and sanitary pads to reduce school attrition, and sexually transmitted and reproductive tract infections: A cluster randomised controlled feasibility study in rural western Kenya. BMJ Open, 6(11), e013229.

• UNICEF. (2019). Guidance on Menstrual Health and Hygiene. United Nations Children’s Fund.

• United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2021). Single-use menstrual products and the environment.Retrieved from www.unep.org

• Van Eijk, A. M., Zulaika, G., Lenchner, M., et al. (2018). Menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open, 8(6), e019276.