After using disposable pads for years and following the birth of my oldest son and its tough recovery, I knew I had to made a change. I began my search for eco-friendly alternatives that would be better for both my son and I. Cloth pads and reusable menstrual cups being one of the considerations for myself. So when I found out I was expecting, I knew that postpartum cloth pads were one way I was going to treat myself this time for a better postpartum experience.
Up to now, I had quite a stash of Pink Lemonade Shop cloth pads. So the addition of a few postpartum cloth pads just seemed right to round out my stash. There are many different types of cloth pad fabric in my stash. So I had plenty of opportunity to try different ones and pick my favorites. Just how many I would need was new territory I hadn’t crossed before, though.
How many postpartum cloth pads will I need?
There’s really no right answer on just how many you will need. This depends on how often you’d like to wash. When there’s a new baby to snuggle, I know I’m not keen on doing laundry! You’ll need about 12-24 cloth pads depending on how often you’d like to wash. 12 cloth pads, a mix of 12 inch Ultimate Overnight and 13 inch Postpartum, will get you through by washing daily. If you’re looking to wash less often or stretch it to wash with cloth diapers, you’ll want closer to a dozen of each, 12 inch and 13 inch cloth pads. This amount will give you plenty of a rotation so you have what you need while still washing less frequently. Many women find that they are able to use the 12 inch and 11 inch cloth pads already in their stash for their regular cycle so these count toward the total needed. In between wash days simply store your used cloth pads in a reusable wetbag. Some women, depending on your fabric, will do a cold rinse in the sink before tossing them in the wetbag and wash when ready.
But what about washing and the stains?
I was already use to handling cloth diapers, cloth pads and menstrual cups. The thought of using cloth pads postpartum didn’t bother me. But postpartum cloth pads are sometimes the first time women are learning about the option. So I can understand it being a bit nerve-wracking. It’s easy - trust me! Just rinse your soiled pad under cold water and place them in a reusable wetbag. When you’re ready, cloth pads can be washed in cool or warm water and tumble dried in your dryer. They can be washed alone or with other laundry to limit loads.
If stains have you worried, you have options in tackling them. Don’t let it keep you from making the switch. Just by rinsing your pads after use, you greatly reduce the possibility of staining. We also have Natural Stain Removers to pretreat any worry spots before washing. Also, the sun is your best friend when tackling stains. Just place a clean, wet cloth pad in the sunlight and let it work its magic!
What else do I need to know?
Relax! It’s easy - I promise! Don’t over think it. Cloth pads are durable and easy to care for. They’re a great investment and far more comfortable than disposable products. Your lady parts will thank you. Especially following one of your most sensitive times!