For many menstruating people, disposable pads remain the most commonly used menstrual product due to their accessibility and convenience. However, a growing number of users have begun questioning whether disposable pads should be washed before disposal — particularly in households where hygiene, odor, or privacy concerns are important. While the intention behind washing disposable pads is understandable, medical and environmental experts generally do not recommend it.

1. What Are Disposable Pads Made Of?

Disposable sanitary pads are typically made from superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), plastic layers, adhesives, and bleached cellulose fibers. These materials are designed to lock in menstrual fluid and prevent leakage. Once blood has been absorbed, the pad’s structure is meant to contain it safely until disposal. When washed, however, these layers can break down, release microplastics, and contaminate water systems.

Unlike reusable pads, disposable pads are not engineered for washing. The absorbent core can swell, tear, and release synthetic particles into the water supply, which poses an environmental hazard.

2. Hygiene and Health Considerations

Many people think washing used pads makes disposal “cleaner,” but doing so can increase health risks rather than reduce them. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend that used disposable pads be wrapped securely and placed in a covered bin, not rinsed or flushed.

Washing used pads can expose the handler to bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, especially if there are open cuts on the hands. In addition, wet pads become heavier and can attract flies or mold if not immediately disposed of.

3. Environmental Impact of Washing

From an environmental standpoint, washing disposable pads before disposal doesn’t provide benefits — in fact, it may cause harm. When rinsed, the synthetic fibers and plastic fragments from pads can enter wastewater systems and contribute to microplastic pollution.

Research published in Environmental Science & Technology estimates that sanitary waste contributes significantly to microplastic release, particularly when disposed of or processed incorrectly. Washing disposable pads before discarding them only accelerates this release into water sources.

Instead of washing, experts recommend wrapping pads in biodegradable paper or a separate waste bag before disposal to minimize exposure and odor. Some communities are also introducing menstrual waste incineration systems, which safely reduce volume without adding to landfill waste.

4. Best Practices for Disposal

If you use disposable pads, the best disposal methods are:

1. Wrap securely in toilet paper, newspaper, or biodegradable wrap.

2. Dispose of in a designated bin (ideally with a lid).

3. Never flush pads or wash them before disposal.

4. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

For those seeking more sustainable options, switching to reusable cloth pads, menstrual cups, or period underwear can significantly reduce waste while remaining hygienic when cleaned properly.

5. Conclusion

While washing disposable pads before throwing them away may seem like a cleaner or more polite habit, it is neither necessary nor environmentally safe. The most responsible way to manage menstrual waste is through secure wrapping and proper disposal, not rinsing or washing. Adopting safer and more sustainable menstrual products can help both personal hygiene 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.

• Muralidharan, S., & Patil, V. R. (2018). Awareness and practices regarding menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in rural areas. International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, 5(10), 4564–4568.

• Prata, J. C., da Costa, J. P., Lopes, I., Duarte, A. C., & Rocha-Santos, T. (2020). Environmental exposure to microplastics: An overview on possible human health effects. Environmental Science & Technology, 54(15), 8746–8764.

• Sommer, M., Chandraratna, S., Cavill, S., Mahon, T., & Phillips-Howard, P. (2016). Managing menstruation in the workplace: An overlooked issue in low- and middle-income countries. International Journal for Equity in Health, 15(1), 86.

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

• World Health Organization (WHO) & UNICEF. (2018). Guidance on menstrual health and hygiene. United Nations Children’s Fund.