If you're considering making the switch to reusable cloth pads, one of the questions you might have is how many pads you actually need. The answer depends on a few factors, such as the length of your period and your willingness to wash them part way through your cycle.
Understanding Your Flow
Before we dive into the number of pads you'll need, it's important to understand your menstrual flow. Lil Helper offers a range absorbency options in our reusable Hypatia Menstrual Pads, including:
Choosing the right absorbency level for your flow is essential in ensuring comfort and leak protection.
Average Cycle Length
The first factor to consider is the average length of your period.
If your period typically lasts for about 4-5 days, you'll likely need a different number of pads compared to someone whose period lasts for 7-8 days. It's important to take this into account when determining how many reusable cloth pads you should have in your stash.
Daily Pad Usage
On average, most individuals who use Lil Helper's Hypatia Menstrual Pads report using up to 4 pads per day during their cycle. This number can vary depending on individual preferences and needs. Some people may find that they only need 2 or 3 pads per day. Very few of our customers report needing more than 4 a day, even on their heaviest days.
Washing Frequency
Another consideration is whether you are willing to wash your reusable pads part way through your cycle or not. If you prefer not to wash them until the end of your period, you will need more pads in order to have enough for each day.
Finding Your Perfect Number
To determine how many reusable pads you personally need, it's helpful to do a bit of math based on the information above. Start by calculating the average length of your menstrual cycle. Then consider how often you would like to wash your pads during that time. Multiply the number of days in your cycle by the maximum number of pads you expect to use per day (Our standard recommendation is 4, based on customer feedback). This will give you a rough estimate of how many pads you should have on hand.
Remember, it's always better to have a few extra pads than not enough. Having a sufficient supply ensures that you can comfortably manage your period without worrying about running out.
Making the switch to reusable cloth pads is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your comfort and well-being. By finding the right number of pads that suits your needs, you can make this transition with ease and confidence.
So, how many reusable pads do you need? It ultimately depends on factors such as your average cycle length, flow intensity, and washing preferences. Take some time to assess these factors and find the perfect number of reusable cloth pads for yourself.
Want more help? You can always reach out to delight@lilhelper.ca for more advice. Or simply start with our trial offer to help you determine your reusable pad preferences.
Caitlin
Blog Content & Delight Customer Services Manager
From registered social worker and early childhood educator to Lil Helper guest blogger to our blog content and Delight Customer Services Manager—and that’s all on top of being a proud mama to three. Caitlin fell in love with Lil Helper after using cloth diapers for her first child and quickly combined her longtime love of writing with her new passion for parenting and cloth diapering. She enjoys writing about marriage, mental health, family, postpartum reality, and early childhood development. Besides writing and connecting Lil Helper and customers together for meaningful solutions, Caitlin loves thrifting, gardening, and momming.
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Comments
Hi D & L!
Thank you so much for your kind feedback! It brings a big smile to our faces here at Lil Helper knowing that we can help make menstruation a little brighter for folks – it is a delight to read your daughter’s review!
I hope you have many excellent belly laughs today!
Cheers,
Caitlin @ Lil Helper
Caitlin @ Lil Helper on
Hi There! We just purchased some menstrual products for my 11 year old. She loves them. She says they are better for the environment (D’uh!), they’re soft, AND you don’t get an unexpected waxing if the pad shifts!!!
She also LOVES the sense of humour of your website and your letter that was included in her first package.
Keep up the awesome-possum good work!!!
D & L on