Reusable Pad FAQs

Aside from the obvious fact that you do not throw reusable pads away, there are a few real differences. Cloth pads have wings that snap into place, so there is no adhesive like with disposables. Every Topsy Daisy pad and liner has wing snaps. Bamboo terry breathes far better than plastic disposables, which makes it more comfortable to wear. And you can choose colours and prints to match your style.

It is a personal choice, but there are a few good reasons to switch. You keep thousands of disposable products out of landfill, you stop buying pads every single month, you wear soft bamboo terry instead of synthetic fabrics against your body, you cut your exposure to the chemicals in some disposables, and you never again deal with an adhesive wing stuck in the wrong place.

Each Topsy Daisy pad lasts 5+ years with proper care, and many last longer. That estimate assumes a rotation of about ten pads so no single one is in heavy use all the time.

Many people picture wood when they hear bamboo and wonder how that becomes a comfortable pad. Bamboo is spun into a soft, silky terry fabric. It grows fast, which makes it highly renewable, and it is not a target for pests, so it does not need the chemical treatment that conventional cotton crops often get.

Good news: cloth pads tend to stay fresher than disposables. The bamboo terry breathes, so moisture evaporates instead of sitting against you, and less moisture means fewer of the bacteria that cause odour. If you ever notice an unusual smell during use, a common bacterial imbalance could be the cause, which is worth checking with a doctor. For fixing wash-day odour yourself, see our guide on how to get smell out of reusable pads.

Most women deal with around 35 years of menstruation in a lifetime, which adds up to thousands of dollars in disposable products. Switching to cloth means you spend far less on period care over the years. Everyone is different, so the exact saving depends on your flow and when you start.

Yes. Cloth pads work well for light to heavy bladder leaks, and many people who need daily protection find them far kinder to skin. Disposable plastic-based products worn every day can raise the risk of yeast and bacterial infections, plus ordinary irritation and chafing. The comfort and breathability of bamboo terry can be a real relief. See our reusable incontinence pads.

Most people who switch talk about how much more comfortable they are than disposables, which can feel clammy. Reusable pads are soft and breathable, so air moves through and you stay drier, with less chafing and irritation. Many say they feel cooler to wear than disposables and their heat-trapping plastic.

It depends on the pad and your flow. Some pads get their leak protection from thicker layers, while ours pair absorbent bamboo terry with a thin waterproof backing, so they hold plenty without much bulk. Thickness also varies by the flow level a pad is built for, from slim liners up to Super Pads.

They sure can. It often helps to start with a panty liner or a smaller pad to see how they like it. Starting early with cloth can help young people feel in control of their cycle, and the range of colours and prints is a big draw.

Absorbency is the main thing to match. Go lighter if you have a light flow or just need backup, and heavier for a heavy flow. A liner holds about two tampons' worth, a Maxi Pad about three, and a Super Pad about four. One simple trick is to measure a disposable you already like and pick a cloth pad of a similar size. Browse the full range to compare.

Most people like a small stash that covers the whole cycle. The right number depends on how long your period lasts and how heavy it is, but about a dozen is a good guide. For example: three to six liners, six to twelve day pads, and one to three overnight pads.

Cloth pads are made to be very absorbent and use wings that snap around your underwear to keep the sides dry. Topsy Daisy pads include a waterproof backing, though depending on your flow you may not always need it. As with any pad, change it before it is fully saturated. After a short while you will know exactly how often that is for you.

Usually one to six times a day. You will know it is time when the pad starts to feel wet against your skin. The heavier your flow, the more often you change, and the lighter your flow, the longer you can go between changes.

Thanks to the wing snaps, our pads fold up into neat little squares that tuck into a purse. Carry a small bag for used ones, a plain zip bag works fine, or use one of the waterproof carry pouches that come with our sets and bundles.

Yes. Cloth pads can be extremely absorbent. If you have a favourite overnight disposable, measure it and choose one of our pads that is the same length or longer. See our reusable pads for heavy flow.

No. Just like disposable pads, cloth pads soak up water and stop working, so they are not suited to swimming. For protection in the water you would want an internal option instead.

Yes. Give new pads one wash before first use. This removes any fabric sizing and brings the bamboo terry up to full absorbency. One wash is enough.

Not really. Washing reusable pads is about as simple as washing any other clothing. It can feel a little odd the first time, but after a couple of rounds it becomes routine. Our wash and care guide walks through the whole thing in about 45 seconds of effort.

Whenever suits you. You can wash as you go through your stash during your cycle, or launder them all once your period ends. There is no wrong time.

Most pads can be tumble dried on low or medium, or air dried. Air-dried pads may feel a little stiff at first, which softens with use. Keep them out of long spells of direct sunlight, since strong sun can fade the colours over time.