Victor Okafor

Economical & Eco-Friendly: Embrace the Revolution of Reusable Sanitary Pads! Reusable sanitary pads are cheaper, safer, more environmentally friendly and more comfortable than synthetic disposable pads. This article explores how to use reusable pads, the available ones in Nigeria, and their pros and cons. What are reusable sanitary pads? Reusable sanitary or cloth pads are alternative feminine hygiene products to disposable menstrual pads. Unlike disposable menstrual pads, cloth pads are rinsed, washed, and reused instead of throwing them away. Depending on personal preference, reusable pads are used based on the following; Better comfort than disposable pads or To reduce environmental waste. According to Global Citizen, a woman would go through 5000 to 15,000 pads in their lifetime on average, using reusable pad cuts down waste exponentially. How to use reusable sanitary pads Reusable pads are made of cotton and absorb menstrual blood externally. They are easier to use and work the same way as disposable pads, containing an absorbent material that prevents blood leakage. To use them correctly: 1. Attach the cloth pad to the crotch of your underwear like a disposable pad. 2. When it's full or soaked, remove and rinse under running water. If you're outdoors and can't do this immediately, wrap it in a nylon bag and wait till you get home. 3. Each reusable pad comes with the manufacturer's instructions; ensure to wash them according to instructions. 4. Hang to dry under the sun. How to make reusable sanitary pads at home Reusable pads face the challenge of having a high upfront cost. However, you can skip this challenge by making your own pads at home. Materials needed to make reusable pads at home: 1. Cotton Fabric 2. Disposable Pad 3. Marker or Pen/Pencil 4. Sewing machine or needle 5. Sewing pins 6. Scissors 7. Thick Paper Steps: 1. Prepare the materials: Gather the required materials, including cotton fabric for the top and bottom layers, waterproof fabric (PUL) for the waterproof layer, and additional cotton fabric for the absorbent core. 2. Trace the template: Place the reusable pad template onto the cotton fabric. Secure the template in place to prevent any movement. Using a pen or tailor's chalk, carefully trace the outline of the template onto the fabric. This will serve as a guide for cutting the necessary pieces. 3. Cut the cotton fabric: Using sharp scissors, cut along the traced lines on the cotton fabric. You will need two pieces of cotton fabric—one for the top layer and one for the bottom layer. These pieces will form the outermost layers of the reusable pad. 4. Cut the waterproof fabric: Next, cut a piece of waterproof fabric (PUL) based on the template shape. This fabric will act as a protective barrier to prevent leaks and ensure the pad remains waterproof. 5. Prepare the absorbent core: Depending on the desired absorbency level, cut two or three pieces of cotton fabric in the shape of the pad template. These pieces will serve as the absorbent core of the reusable pad, providing the necessary absorption and comfort. 6. Turn the pad inside through the gap and press and smooth the edges with a steam iron. To complete the pad, sew a stitching line around the edges to close the gap and give it a finished look. 7. To secure the cotton sanitary pad, add a button, plastic snaps, or metal poppers. This will keep the pad in place during use. Best reusable sanitary pads There are several reusable pads available for use in Nigeria. Some include: 1. Pad-Up Creations: Pad-Up Creations offers reusable pads made from high-quality, absorbent materials. They provide various sizes and absorbency levels to suit different flow needs. 2. Ngozi Pad: Ngozi Pad provides reusable pads that are eco-friendly and designed to be leak-proof. Their pads are made from soft, natural materials, making them comfortable for everyday use. 3. Wemy Cloth Pads: Wemy Cloth Pads offers reusable pads made from organic cotton. They provide different sizes and designs, allowing women to choose according to their preferences. 4. BeGirl Reusable Pads: BeGirl is a global brand that offers reusable pads designed for easy use and portability. Their pads are made from quick-drying materials, making them suitable for travel or outdoor activities. Note: Since cloth pads come in different sizes, choosing cloth pads that suit your menstrual flow type is best. Pros and cons of using reusable sanitary pad There are several pros and cons attached to reusable sanitary pads. They include: PROS Comfortability: Cloth pads are more comfortable to wear as they are made from cotton and are kinder to the skin. Also, they reduce exposure to harmful substances than disposable pads. Saves Money: With reusable pads, you can kiss goodbye to frequent pad purchases. Since they last a long time, you save more money and effort to get pads every month. Eco-friendly Option: Reusable pads are the way to reduce the amount of waste you produce monthly. They are environmentally friendly as they reduce waste and contribute towards achieving a greener planet. CONS Upfront cost: Unlike their disposable counterparts, cloth pads are expensive to purchase upfront. This is a disadvantage of cloth pads that reduces their adoption for use. Maintenance: Reusable pads require extra care and maintenance to last longer. They must be properly washed and dried to reduce the risk of carrying bacteria. Stigma: Women who use reusable pads are usually uncomfortable talking about them, as cloth pads sound disgusting to some women. When maintained and properly cared for, reusable sanitary pads are a huge advantage as they save costs and reduce the environmental impacts of waste. Conclusion In conclusion, reusable sanitary pads provide an eco-friendly and economical alternative to disposable pads. They offer increased comfort, cost savings, and a reduced environmental impact. By using reusable pads, women can embrace a more sustainable approach to feminine hygiene while enjoying the benefits of a comfortable and long-lasting solution. Whether purchasing from reputable brands or making them at home, reusable pads offer a viable option for individuals looking to minimize waste and prioritize their well-being. Frequently Asked Questions Are reusable sanitary pads as effective as disposable pads? Yes, reusable sanitary pads are designed to be just as effective as disposable pads. They have absorbent layers that prevent leakage and can be adjusted to suit individual needs. How do I clean and maintain reusable pads? After use, rinse the pad under running water to remove excess blood. Then, wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically by hand or machine. Proper drying is essential to prevent bacteria growth. How many reusable pads do I need? The number of reusable pads needed depends on personal preference and the length of your menstrual cycle. Experts recommend having around 6-10 pads to ensure you have enough for a full cycle. How long do reusable pads last? Reusable pads can last for several years with proper care and maintenance. Regularly inspect the pads for any signs of wear and tear, and replace them as needed. Can reusable pads cause infections? When properly cleaned and maintained, reusable pads do not pose a higher risk of infection than disposable pads. It's crucial to follow proper hygiene practices and wash the pads thoroughly.