Disposable pads contain plastics, which block airflow to the vagina and are uncomfortable and crinkly. They also contain synthetic fibres like rayon which are bleached to give it a clean and white appearance. The bleaching process creates dioxin, a highly toxic pollutant that may lead to various forms of cancer and endometriosis. On the other hand, cloth pads are made of breathable fabrics that keep you comfortable throughout the day.

Although cloth pads cost more upfront, they last for years with proper care. Using reusables also helps to minimize the waste created by disposables. A disposable pad takes 500-800 years to completely decompose while a cloth pads lasts for 3 to 4 years and can be easy disposed at the end of their lifetime. 

Everyone’s cycle is different. To determine how many cloth pads you need, consider the factors below:

• How often will you be able to wash the pad? If you are able to wash your pads about every second day, you can cut down greatly on the amount of pads you’ll need.
• What size of pads do you normally use? If you use liners, day pads and night pads on different days, you may want to get a good combination of sizes for your cloth pads.
• How many pads do you normally use? Keep track of the number of pads you use during a cycle so you can determine how many times you need to change your pad every day.

Many cloth pad users have reported that there is very little or no smell at all. Cloth pads allow moisture to evaporate, and less moisture means fewer bacteria to produce unwanted smells. If you do notice an odd smell, common bacterial imbalances could be to blame; you may wish to consult a doctor.

Cloth pads can be hand washed or machine washed. Soaking or rinsing soiled pads in cold water before hand/machine washing helps to remove as much blood as possible and prevent stains. After soaking the pads can be washed with any detergent or soap. We do not recommend using hard scrubs to get the stain out as it reduces absorbency of the pads.

The lifespan of a cloth pad varies greatly according to how they are cared for and how often they are used. Cloth liners for daily use tend to last about 18 months to 2 years, depending on how often they are used. Washing is hard on any cloth — pads or clothing — so if you have a small stash of just 3 liners, they’ll be washed a lot more than if you’ve got a larger stash that you’re able to rotate more often.

Menstrual pads that are used just once a month typically last longer —  anywhere from 3 to 5 years, depending on how often each individual pad is being used and washed. Again, a larger stash with pads that are only being used 2-4 times per cycle will last longer than a small stash with pads needing to be washed daily and reused several times within a cycle. 

A menstrual cup is a bell-shaped, flexible device, which is designed for use inside the vagina during period. It is a reusable sanitary pad & tampon alternative worn inside the vagina that collects flow rather than absorbing it. Cups come in all sizes and shapes to fit the wearer best and are most often made from medical grade silicone. They are a safer, healthier, and more comfortable way to manage your period.

STEP 1 – STERILIZE: Disinfect the cup before every use by washing and keeping it in boiling water for 5 minutes.

STEP 2- FOLD: Take the cup with clean hands and fold its rim. There are many ways of folding it, like the punch down fold, the C-fold or the 7-fold. Try whichever fold suits you best.

STEP 3 – INSERT: Gently separate the opening of the vagina with other hand and push the folded side in. Ensure that the cup is inserted completely inside the vagina. The stem may or may not stay: outside the vaginal opening depending upon the depth of your cervix. To facilitate smoother insertion, raise your one leg to an elevated position or squat down with your legs apart.

STEP 4 – PLACEMENT: Once properly inserted, ensure that the cup pops open fully inside. Run a finger around the side of the cup. It should feel smooth, comfortable and unobtrusive. If you feel folds on the cup. it implies that it hasn’t opened properly. Pinch the base of the cup (not the stem) and rotate it in the same position to let it unfold, thus creating a vacuum seal which ensures zero leakage.

STEP 5 USE: Due to its design, the menstrual cup is most suitable for an active lifestyle. Including sports like swimming, dance, hiking, running, travel etc. Depending upon individual flow, it can be used for up to 12 hours at a stretch. You do not have to remove your cup to urinate. Sometimes when you defecate, the position of the cup may change or it may fall out. Thus, you have to remove and reinsert it.

STEP 6- REMOVAL: Wash your hands thoroughly. Sit on the toilet/squat down with your legs apart. Insert two fingers and a thumb to hold the stem. Pull the stem until you can touch the bottom of the cup. Pinch at the bottom of the cup to release the suction and pull the cup out gently.

STEP 7 – EMPTY: Empty the cup in the toilet pot and rinse it with water thoroughly for reuse. Make sure the holes near the rim of the cup are cleaned and not clogged. Depending upon the flow, empty the cup 2-5 times daily.

STEP 8- STERILIZE: Before keeping it away for use in the next cycle, sterilize and clean the cup thoroughly.

REMOVAL: Wash your hands thoroughly. Sit on the toilet/squat down with your legs apart. Insert two fingers and a thumb to hold the stem. Pull the stem until you can touch the bottom of the cup. Pinch at the bottom of the cup to release the suction and pull the cup out gently.

EMPTY: Empty the cup in the toilet pot and rinse it with water thoroughly for reuse. Make sure the holes near the rim of the cup are cleaned and not clogged. Depending upon the flow, empty the cup 2-5 times daily.

The general size guidelines state three sizes in an order. The small one is used by first timers and teens. The medium one is used by women who are above 18 years and have given birth via C-section. And the large one is for the women who are above 30 years of age and have given birth vaginally.

These guidelines are helpful but it’s important to note that you know your body best. We do believe that knowing your cervical height is the most important aspect of picking the size of the cup (one based on length) since the vagina can stretch but cannot create more length.