DIY Reusable Sanitary Pads Gain Popularity Amid Ecoconscious Shift

Imagine being able to replace expensive, environmentally damaging disposable menstrual products with homemade alternatives that cost virtually nothing. This revolutionary approach offers comfort, affordability, and sustainability in one simple solution.

Before exploring the homemade solution, it's important to recognize the key issues with conventional disposable sanitary products:

• Financial burden: The cumulative cost of disposable pads creates significant economic pressure, particularly for women with limited resources.
• Environmental impact: Composed primarily of plastic and synthetic fibers, disposable pads take centuries to decompose while occupying landfill space or releasing toxic fumes when incinerated.
• Health concerns: Some products contain harmful chemicals like bleach or adhesives that may cause skin irritation or gynecological issues, while poor breathability can promote bacterial growth.
• Discomfort: Many commercial pads use rough materials that cause chafing, particularly in warm weather when moisture buildup becomes problematic.

DIY sanitary pads offer compelling benefits compared to their disposable counterparts:

• Minimal cost: Created from repurposed fabrics or inexpensive materials, homemade pads dramatically reduce expenses.
• Environmental sustainability: Reusable pads eliminate waste while giving old textiles new purpose through upcycling.
• Health safety: Users control material selection, avoiding exposure to questionable chemicals while benefiting from natural fibers' breathability.
• Custom comfort: Adjustable thickness and soft fabric choices prevent irritation while accommodating personal preferences.
• Personalization: From colors to dimensions, each pad can be tailored to individual needs and aesthetic tastes.

This straightforward method requires minimal sewing skills and common household materials.

• Absorbent core: Repurposed cotton towels, T-shirts, or flannel fabric (medium thickness recommended)
• Leak-proof barrier: Fleece (breathable) or PUL fabric (more waterproof)
• Fasteners: Small safety pins or snaps
• Tools: Scissors, needle and thread (optional)

1. Cut materials: Size the pad to personal preference (typically 8-10" long × 2.5-3" wide). Layer 3-4 pieces of absorbent material, cutting the waterproof layer slightly larger for complete coverage.
2. Optional stitching: Secure absorbent layers with simple stitches to prevent shifting during use.
3. Encase the core: Center the absorbent stack on the waterproof backing, folding edges inward to enclose it completely. Secure with stitching or pinking shears for fleece.
4. Add fasteners: Attach safety pins or snaps at both ends. Pins offer simplicity while snaps provide greater security.

Secure pads in underwear using the chosen fasteners. Change regularly, rinsing immediately in cold water before washing with mild soap. Sun-drying provides natural disinfection. Maintain 5-7 pads for convenient rotation.

Performance depends on thoughtful fabric choices:

• Cotton: Soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic—ideal for sensitive skin (old T-shirts work well)
• Bamboo fiber: Naturally antimicrobial with superior absorption, though more costly
• Microfiber: Highly absorbent but less breathable—best combined with other materials

• Fleece: Comfortable with moderate water resistance—suits light-to-medium flow
• PUL fabric: Excellent protection for heavy flow situations, though slightly less breathable

• Increase absorbency by adding core layers
• Combine different fabrics (e.g., cotton with microfiber) for balanced performance
• Incorporate activated charcoal to neutralize odors

Proper cleaning extends pad lifespan while ensuring hygiene:

1. Rinse immediately in cold water (hot water sets stains)
2. Soak in cold water with mild detergent for ≤30 minutes
3. Gently hand-wash, using a soft brush for stubborn stains
4. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue
5. Sun-dry for natural sterilization or tumble-dry on low heat
6. Store in dry, ventilated areas to prevent mildew

Properly constructed pads with complete waterproof coverage prevent leaks when changed regularly.

Thorough cleaning and sun-drying eliminates smells. Activated charcoal provides additional odor control.

Most users tolerate them well, though those with extreme sensitivity should select ultra-soft natural fibers and fragrance-free cleansers.

With proper care, quality homemade pads remain functional for 1-2 years.

Homemade sanitary pads represent more than economic savings—they embody environmental responsibility and body awareness. This simple switch reduces dependence on disposable products while delivering customized comfort. The transition requires minimal effort but yields substantial benefits for both personal wellbeing and planetary health.