So you are ready to wash your pads, but don't know where to start.
If you're new to cloth menstrual pads, you may be wondering: How do I wash them? Do they smell? Do I need to soak them?
The good news is that caring for cloth pads is surprisingly simple. In fact, many users find their cloth pad routine easier than expected after just one cycle.
In this guide, we'll walk you through exactly how to wash, store, and care for your reusable menstrual pads so they stay soft, absorbent, and beautiful for years to come.
Why Proper Care Matters
High-quality cloth pads are designed to last for hundreds of uses. With proper washing and drying, many #paddicts enjoy the same pads for several years.
Benefits of proper care include:
- Better absorbency
- Longer lifespan
- Reduced staining
- Fresher-smelling pads
- Softer fabrics against your skin
The best part? No special equipment is required.
Step 1: Change Your Pad as Needed
Just like a disposable product, cloth pads should be changed based on your flow.
Some people may wear a pad for a few hours, while others can wear one longer depending on absorbency and flow level.
Once you're ready for a fresh pad:
- Unsnap the used pad.
- Fold it in thirds.
- Snap the wings around the folded pad.
This keeps everything neat and discreet until wash day.
Step 2: Store Until Wash Day
One of the biggest myths about cloth pads is that they must be soaked immediately.
In reality, many users simply store them in a wet bag, Péri Bag, or designated laundry basket until wash day.
Choose whichever method works best for your lifestyle:
Option A: Dry Storage
Place used pads in:
This is the most popular method.
Option B: Quick Rinse
Some users prefer to rinse pads under cool water before storing.
This can help remove excess blood but is completely optional.
Step 3: Prepare for Washing
You can wait until your period is over to wash all of your pads together at the same time. When wash day arrives:
- Unsnap all folded pads.
- Empty your wet bag.
- Place pads directly into the washing machine.
We suggest to wash them separately on their own and not with other items.
However if time/space is a concern you can wash them with towels, rags, etc.
Step 4: Choose Your Wash Cycle
Do a cold rinse cycle first. Then your hot wash cycle with detergent.
Recommended Settings
- Warm water
- Normal wash cycle
- SoCo Studio pad detergent
Warm water helps break down body oils and residue while keeping fabrics in excellent condition.
Avoid using excessive detergent, as buildup can affect absorbency over time. See our recommended detergent list HERE to stay away from or that is safe for cloth pad washing.
The zorb inside of cloth pads can easily breakdown quickly with harsher chemicals.
Step 5: Run an Extra Rinse (Optional)
If you have sensitive skin or use a heavily scented detergent, an extra rinse cycle can help remove any remaining detergent residue.
Many users find this especially helpful during the summer months or for sensitive skin conditions.
Step 6: Dry Your Pads
After washing, you have two easy options:
Tumble Dry Low
Most cloth pads can be dried on a low-heat setting. Use wool dryer balls to help dry your pads faster and keep them from sticking to the sides of the dryer.
Hang Dry
Many users enjoy air drying because it helps preserve fabrics and decorative prints.
You can use our snap drying hook to hang multiple pads at once and take up less space.
Do not lay your pads flat to dry. Moisture will remain on the bottom side and can cause issues with your pads.
Both methods work beautifully.
What About Stains?
Stains happen, and they do not mean your pads are dirty. Staining is normal.
Because menstrual blood contains natural pigments, some discoloration may occur over time especially with natural fiber fabrics.
To reduce staining:
- Rinse sooner if desired
- Dry in natural sunlight occasionally
- Wash regularly without letting pads sit for extended periods
- Use our stain stick remover bar to easily erase stains
Remember: a stained pad can still be completely clean and sanitary.
Common Questions
Do Cloth Pads Smell?
When washed regularly, cloth pads generally do not develop odor.
Many users actually report less odor than they experienced with disposable products.
Do I Need Gloves?
No. Menstrual blood can be handled just like any other laundry item in your home.
Simply wash your hands afterward if desired.
Can I Wash Them With Other Clothes?
We don't recommend it.
Do I Need to Soak Them?
No. Soaking is optional and not required for successful cloth pad care. However, if you prefer to hand wash cloth pads, we have an article that explains how which includes a soak.
How Long Do Cloth Pads Last?
With proper care, quality cloth pads can last for years and hundreds of wash cycles.
Storage
Make sure store your clean pads in a dry, ventilated area such as our pad pod. Use a sachet to keep them fresh until you need them again.
Switching to cloth menstrual pads doesn't have to mean complicated laundry routines.
The process is simple:
Wear → Fold →Bag → Wash → Dry → Store and reuse
That's it.
With a quality stash and a simple wash routine, cloth pads can provide comfortable, reliable protection cycle after cycle while helping reduce waste and saving money over time.
At SoCo Studio, we believe period care should fit seamlessly into your life—and caring for your cloth pads is easier than most people imagine.
