3 Steps to Easy Cleaning: Keep Your Reusable Pads Germ-Free and Make Them Last
Created on 08.29
Switching to reusable sanitary pads is a great idea—it’s better for the planet, your body, and your wallet. But you might be wondering if cleaning them is a pain. We get it! People often ask how to keep them clean, germ-free, and in good shape, especially when thinking about killing bacteria.
At Family Cares, we think living eco-consciously should be simple. That’s why our reusable pads are comfy and tough. We’ve tested them to make sure they last through 50+ washes while staying absorbent. And the best part? Taking care of them is easier than you think. Here are three easy steps to keep your reusable pads clean, hygienic, and ready to use for years.
Step 1: How to Rinse and Wash
The first step is important but easy. Think of it as taking care of your favorite underwear—a little care now goes a long way.
Why Rinse First?
Rinse your pad right after using it with cold water. Hot water can set stains, making them harder to clean. Cold water helps wash away most of the blood. Gently squeeze the pad until the water runs clear. It's ok if you can't get every dropout. Doing this keeps stains from setting and makes washing easier.
Picking the Right Soap: Gentle Is Best
Your choice of soap is important for cleaning and keeping your pad in good shape. Strong chemicals, fabric softeners, and bleach might seem like they would make your pads super clean, but they can damage the layers that absorb liquid, make the pad less useful overall, and irritate your skin.
We suggest using a mild, unscented soap that doesn’t have enzymes. Look for soaps labeled "eco-friendly" or for sensitive skin. These usually don’t have dyes, perfumes, or brighteners that can damage fabrics and leave residue. Some customers have had good luck with baby laundry soaps or soaps made for delicate clothing.
- Washing by Hand: Hand washing is a fantastic option if you want to give your pads a little extra care or if you only have a few pads. After pre-rinsing, fill a basin with cool water, add a capful of mild detergent, and let your pads soak for 15-30 minutes. Then, gently rub them together or use a soft brush to remove any stains that are stuck on there. Rinse thoroughly under running water until all soap residue is gone.
- Washing Machine: If you don’t have the time to give your pad a hand wash, throwing it in the washing machine will work just fine! Place your pre-rinsed pads in a mesh laundry bag—this keeps them from snagging on other items and helps them keep their shape. Wash on a cold or warm cycle (never hot) with your chosen mild detergent. Opt for a gentle or delicate cycle setting. Avoid stuffing too many clothes into your washing machine, as pads need room to move around and rinse well.
Important Tip: Never use fabric softeners! They can leave a layer that stops liquids from absorbing, making your pad less useful over time. Bleach can also damage the fabric and cause it to wear out faster.
Step 2: How to Dry for Cleanliness and Long Life
After washing, how you dry your reusable pads is very important. Drying them right makes sure they’re ready to use again and helps kill bacteria while making them last longer.
Air Drying: The Best Way
We recommend air drying your reusable pads whenever you can. Sunlight is a natural cleaner that can help fade any stains that are left over.
- Drying Outside: Hang your pads in the sun. The sun’s rays are great at naturally killing bacteria and getting rid of odors. Use clothespins to hold them in place, making sure air can flow around each pad. This is energy-efficient and leaves your pads feeling very fresh.
- Drying Inside: If you can’t dry outside, hang your pads in a room that has good airflow. A clothes rack near a window works well. Don’t dry them in damp, dark places, as that can cause mold to grow. It might take longer to dry inside, but it’s worth it to have fresh, dry pads.
Using a Dryer: Be Careful
While air drying is the better option, we know you might need to use a machine dryer sometimes. If you have to use a dryer, here’s how to do it safely:
- Low Heat: Only use the lowest heat setting. High heat can damage the waterproof layer, melt the inside layers, and make your pads wear out faster. This is key to keeping them in good shape after many washes.
- Remove Quickly: Take them out of the dryer as soon as they’re dry. Drying them for too long can damage the fabric and make them less soft.
- No Dryer Sheets: Dryer sheets can leave a layer that affects how well the pad absorbs liquid. Use natural ways to keep them fresh instead.
By air-drying or using low heat, you’re not just drying your pads—you’re protecting them so they stay absorbent and last longer as part of your period routine.
Step 3: Extra Germ-Killing and Storage Tips
Besides washing and drying, there are a few extra things you can do to kill bacteria and store your reusable sanitary pads so they last longer.
Extra Antibacterial Help
Washing well and drying in the sun are great for killing bacteria, but here are a couple of extra steps you can take for extra reassurance.
- Vinegar Rinse (Optional): Once a month, after washing, you can rinse your pads with vinegar. Add about half a cup of white vinegar to a basin of cool water and soak your clean pads for 15-20 minutes. Vinegar is a mild cleaner and gets rid of odors. After soaking, rinse them well with clean water to get rid of any vinegar smell, then air dry as usual. This is useful if you live where it’s humid or notice any lingering odors.
- Tea Tree Oil (Very Diluted): You can use a very small amount of tea tree oil for killing microbes. Add 1-2 drops of pure tea tree oil to a cup of water, then add this to your wash water (either hand wash or machine). Tea tree oil is strong, so use only a little bit. Don’t put it directly on the pad, as it can irritate your skin.
- Replace Regularly: Even with good care, reusable pads don’t last forever. Our pads are tested for 50+ washes, but we recommend checking them regularly. If you see they’re getting thin, frayed, or not absorbing as well, it’s time to replace them. Think of it as a small investment to stay comfortable and hygienic in the long run.
Smart Storage
How you store your pads between uses is also key to keeping them in good condition and preventing bacteria from growing.
- Make Sure They’re Very Dry: Before storing, make sure your pads are completely dry. Storing even slightly damp pads can cause mold, odors, and fabric damage, wasting all your cleaning efforts.
- Breathable Storage: Store your pads in a container or drawer that’s clean, dry, and lets air in. Fabric bags, cotton pouches, or a drawer in your dresser are great. Don’t use airtight plastic containers, as they can trap moisture and prevent air from circulating.
- Organized: Keep your pads neatly folded or rolled. This makes them easy to find and helps them keep their shape. Our travel pouches are perfect for storing them on the go, keeping them clean and discreet in your bag.
By following these tips, you’re not just cleaning your reusable pads—you’re protecting them from damage, making sure they’re as hygienic as possible, and helping them last longer than you’d expect.
Join the Reusable Movement with Confidence!
We hope these steps have made cleaning your reusable sanitary pads seem less complicated. As you can see, taking care of them is easy and rewarding. By using gentle soaps, drying them properly, and storing them smartly, you’re taking care of your hygiene while also helping the environment.
At Family Cares, we’re proud of how durable and well-designed our reusable pads are. They’re made to be your reliable companion every cycle. You can trust that with these easy care tips, your pads will comfortably last through 50+ washes, giving you reliable protection and peace of mind.
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