Cloth Pads: A helpful way to ease your postpartum experience
Pregnancy is not easy, and what comes after can also be tough for new mothers.
After giving birth, it might feel like the hardest part is over, but most women continue to experience discomfort and a range of symptoms during postpartum. One of the most common is vaginal bleeding, also known as "lochia." This is totally normal and temporary, and there are ways to safely manage it with comfort and dignity.
What is postpartum bleeding (lochia)?
According to WebMD, lochia is how your body gets rid of the extra blood and tissue in your uterus that helped your baby grow. Bleeding is heaviest right after birth and slows down as you recover.
How long does lochia last?
Whether you delivered vaginally or via C-section, lochia typically lasts four to six weeks after delivery. Every body is different, so postpartum bleeding may end sooner or last a little longer.
What should you NOT use during lochia?
Avoid tampons and menstrual cups in the early postpartum weeks. They can introduce bacteria into your still-healing uterus and genital tract. Your vagina is also sore and swollen during this time, and inserting anything before you're fully healed is not safe.
Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider before resuming tampons, menstrual cups, or sexual activity.
What should you use during lochia?
For the first six weeks, stick to pads, even ones as thick as diapers if needed. We highly recommend reusable cloth pads for postpartum because they are softer, more breathable, and gentler on healing skin than disposables.
Reusable vs. Disposable Pads for Postpartum
| Benefit | Disposable Pad | Reusable Pad |
| Comfort | Plastic texture can feel sticky, bunchy, and uncomfortable against sensitive postpartum skin. | Soft bamboo charcoal fabric, gentle against healing skin. Bonus Tip: Store your clean pads in your waterproof pouch in the fridge before use for instant cool relief. |
| Absorption | Clots are not easily absorbed, leaving you feeling damp and uncomfortable. | Effectively absorbs blood, clots, and urine. Stays dry against your skin. |
| Materials | Often contains added fragrances, dyes, and chemicals like dioxin, phthalates, and PFAS, which can cause skin irritation and rashes. | PFAS-free, fragrance-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic. Designed to reduce irritation and chafing. |
| Adhesive | Sticky adhesives can be painful, especially with stitches or sensitive skin. | Snap button secures to your underwear. No sticky adhesive against skin. |
| Convenience | You can run out of stock and be forced to make a store run while in pain. | Always ready. No mid-recovery store trips. |
| Washable | Thrown out after every use. | Hand or machine wash. Air dry or tumble dry low. |
| Eco-friendly | One disposable pad can take 500+ years to decompose. | Lasts up to 5 years with proper care, backed by our 5-Year Quality Promise. |
| Bonus | — | Continue using when your monthly cycle returns. |
Are reusable pads hygienic for postpartum?
Yes. Cariona pads are made with bamboo charcoal, a natural deodorizer, and are PFAS-free and hypoallergenic. As long as you rinse and wash your pads properly after each use, they are safe and hygienic for postpartum.
Which pads do we recommend for postpartum?
| Pad | XL Pad | Overnight | Heavy Flow Pack |
| Length | 14 inches | 13 inches | Mix of 13" and 14" |
| Layers | Five | Four with wider back coverage | Mix of layers |
| Best for | Heavy flow, first 10 to 14 days postpartum | Nighttime use, lighter postpartum days | Full postpartum recovery coverage |
We highly recommend our XL pads for the first 10 to 14 days of postpartum bleeding. As bleeding slows, transition to Overnight pads for daytime and nighttime use. The Heavy Flow Pack offers a complete bundle for your postpartum recovery.
Ready to switch?
Postpartum is hard enough. Comfortable, breathable pads can make a real difference in those first weeks of recovery. Browse our reusable pads or start with a Trial Pack to find your fit.
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