How To Wash Reusable Menstrual Pads
How to Wash Reusable Cloth Pads
Washing reusable cloth pads is simple. The goal is to rinse in cold water, wash with a gentle detergent, and dry fully. With consistent care, your Cariona pads will stay fresh and last up to 5 years or longer, backed by our 5-Year Quality Promise.
Quick rule: Cold rinse, cold wash, air dry or low heat. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
Step-by-Step Washing Routine
- Rinse in cold water. Rinse until the water runs mostly clear. Cold water helps prevent stains from setting.
- Store until wash day. Place pads in a wet bag or waterproof pouch. A quick cold rinse first helps keep things fresher.
- Machine wash cold. Use a mild detergent on a cold cycle. Wash with similar colors if your pads have patterns.
- Skip fabric softener and bleach. These reduce absorbency and damage fabrics over time.
- Dry fully. Air dry is ideal. Tumble dry on low heat works if you need faster drying.
Best Practices for Freshness and Longevity
Prevent Odors
Rinse in cold water after use and avoid letting pads sit sealed while damp. A waterproof pouch helps store them safely until laundry day.
Reduce Stains
Cold rinse immediately when possible. For stubborn stains, sun drying can naturally lighten them over time.
Protect Absorbency
Avoid fabric softener and dryer sheets. These can coat fabric and reduce how well your pads absorb. Use a gentle detergent instead.
How to Store Used Pads When You're Not Home
- Fold the pad and snap it closed.
- Place it in a waterproof pouch or wet bag.
- Rinse when you get home, then wash on laundry day.
What to Avoid
- Bleach — weakens fabrics and can cause irritation.
- Fabric softener or dryer sheets — reduce absorbency.
- High heat drying — shortens pad lifespan.
- Hot water rinses — can set stains permanently.
- Iron or "sanitize cycle" — damages the TPU leak-resistant backing.
- Soaps with essential oils — can coat fabric and reduce absorbency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do reusable pads smell?
When rinsed and washed regularly, Cariona reusable pads should not retain odor. Our bamboo charcoal top layer is naturally deodorizing.
How do I remove stains from reusable pads?
Cold rinse quickly after use. For stubborn stains, add a little salt to cold or warm water and soak. Sun drying also naturally lightens stains over time. Light staining doesn't mean the pad is unsafe.
Can I machine wash reusable pads with other laundry?
Yes. Many people wash pads with towels or dark clothing on a cold cycle. A quick cold rinse first helps if your flow is heavier.
Can I put reusable pads in the dryer?
Air drying is ideal. If you use a dryer, choose low heat to protect the fabric and snap closures.
Is it hygienic to reuse menstrual pads?
Yes. When rinsed, washed, and dried properly, reusable cloth pads are safe and hygienic. Cariona pads are also PFAS-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic, designed to be gentle on sensitive skin.
How long do Cariona pads last?
With proper care, Cariona reusable pads last up to 5 years or longer. Every pad is backed by our 5-Year Quality Promise.
Not sure which pads to buy?
Use our Flow Type Guide to pick the right sizes for your cycle. To plan your quantity, read How Many Reusable Pads Do I Need?
