So you are fed up of using the plastic crinkly disposable pads. You are looking for a comfy, sustainable alternative or a backup to tampons or cups. You have probably come across reusable pads and reusable period pants.

But how do you pick between the two?

Well today, I am going to give you a rapid overview of both. Hopefully this will help you make a more informed decision or will convince you to try one for the first time.

Reusable products

Reusable products can be a great way to cut down on plastic waste. Disposable products can contain up to 90% plastic and with the average person using over 11000 over their lifetime that is a lot of waste. Think of all the time you will save not having to empty the bathroom bin or having to go to the shops every month. Reusable products are always there which can be a great way to save time and money. Reusable underwear and pads are worn then removed, washed and reused. This means you may need more than one to get you through. Most reusables can be washed with your regular washing so no extra washing is needed.

So let’s start with period pants…

Reusable period pants entered period world pretty recently and has been rapidly growing. Period pants are what they says on the tin. Rather than adding products to your underwear you buy underwear with absorbent material built in. Pretty cool! Reusable period underwear can be great for wearing as a backup or alone. However the absorption will vary for different products and brands to make sure to check.Period underwear can be a great way to try a new product. There are lots of companies selling reusable underwear including Thinx, WUKA and Modibodi. Find out more on their websites to learn more.

Now let’s chat about reusable pads

So reusable pads are probably more recognisable. Reusable period pads are period pads made from textile absorbent materials. They are attached to your underwear using wings which fasten using poppers or buttons. Reusable period pads can be made of a variety of different materials depending on the brand but generally they have a soft material for the outside top layer, an absorbent material for the middle layer and a waterproof bottom layer. This ensures that the pads can absorb liquid but feel soft and comfortable.Reusable pads can be another easy swap. Either to back up an internal product or to use alone. They differ to reusable underwear as they are worn as well as your normal underwear.

But what one for you?

For some, reusable period pads may be easier or more accessible. Reusable pads tend to be cheaper than underwear allowing you to buy more pads. Pads may also be easier to change throughout the day compared to underwear however this is a personal preference. For others who do not want to use pads, underwear may work better. Other than slight differences, both products are great ways to cut down your plastic waste. They can be an ideal additional product or a product to be used alone.

Fancy trying reusable pads? Lilypads are super soft and absorbent and are available in packs as small as 2 to start you off with. Shop now.