Pros and Cons of Cloth Pads: A Rundown of the Good and the Bad

So, you’re thinking about trying reusable menstrual pads—welcome! If you’re here, you're probably weighing the pros and cons and wondering if cloth pads are really worth the hype.

At Lil Helper, we’re big fans of eco-friendly swaps that actually work. But we’re not here to guilt-trip you into going zero-waste overnight or pretend that cloth pads are perfect for everyone. Just like any period product, they come with trade-offs—and your decision should fit your lifestyle, your comfort, and your needs.

To help you make an informed choice, we’re laying it all out: the good, the great, and the real. Here's everything you need to know about reusable menstrual pads.

Pros of Cloth Pads

Better for the Planet

Let’s start with the obvious: cloth pads dramatically cut down on waste. Unlike disposables, which pile up in landfills and contain a ton of plastic, cloth pads are reusable for years and are often made using more sustainable materials and production methods. If reducing your carbon footprint is a priority, this is an easy and effective step.

Budget-Friendly in the Long Run

We get it—reusable pads can seem pricey at first. But think of it as an upfront investment. When you compare the cost of a few sets of cloth pads with buying boxes of disposables every month for years, the savings are real. Plus, by supporting companies like Lil Helper, you're helping small businesses, not faceless corporations.

Comfortable (Like, Really Comfortable)

Disposable pads can feel like plastic sandpaper. Cloth pads? Not so much. They’re breathable, gentle on your skin, and often free from the synthetic chemicals found in conventional products. Our HyPs pads feature a moisture-wicking stay-dry layer that keeps you feeling fresh—no stickiness, no irritation, no weird crinkly sounds.

Surprisingly Convenient

No more late-night pharmacy runs or emergency TP-pad hacks. Once you have a stash of cloth pads, you're always stocked. They come in different sizes and absorbencies (just like disposables), and many brands—ours included—offer waterproof layers and leak protection. You can even get travel-friendly options for clean and used pads, making on-the-go changes simple.

Bonus Perks

We can’t promise a magical period experience, but many users report less irritation, reduced cramping, and even lighter flows after switching to cloth. Plus, they don’t hold on to odor like disposables often do. Fewer stinks? Yes, please.

Cons of Cloth Pads

Washing & Care

This is the biggest hurdle for most people. Cloth pads do require rinsing and regular washing, which adds a step to your routine. Luckily, it’s not rocket science—our HyPs are designed to be easy-care and can go in your regular laundry. Still, it’s something to factor in, especially if you're short on time, space, or access to laundry.

The “Ick” Factor

Let’s be honest: rinsing out a used pad might not sound appealing. For some, it’s no big deal. For others, it’s a hard pass. You’ll also need to carry clean and used pads when out and about, which takes a little planning. Cloth pads are completely hygienic when used properly—but if the idea just doesn’t sit right with you, that’s totally valid.

Upfront Cost

Cloth pads pay for themselves over time, but that initial cost can be a barrier. The good news is you can build your collection slowly or start with a trial kit to test the waters.

Laundry Access

If you don’t have consistent access to a washer (say, if you use shared laundry facilities or are traveling), cloth pads may not be the most practical option. You’ll want to make sure your routine supports regular washing and drying.

Bulkiness

Cloth pads can feel a bit bulkier than some ultra-thin disposables, depending on the brand. That said, designs have come a long way—our HyPs are impressively trim while still offering serious absorbency. If minimalism is a must, shop around for styles that suit your preferences.

So… Are Cloth Pads Worth It?

If you're looking for a more sustainable, skin-friendly, and cost-effective way to manage your period, cloth pads are definitely worth considering. Yes, they take a bit of effort—but for many, the benefits far outweigh the downsides.

At Lil Helper, we’ve designed our HyPs pads to make the switch as easy (and comfortable) as possible. If you’re curious but not quite ready to commit, our HyPs Trial is a great low-pressure way to test things out. For those looking to fully stock up, the HyPs Bundle offers everything you need to get through your cycle with ease. Pair it with our Lifesaver Mat Bundle for extra peace of mind on heavy days or overnight, and grab our Bags Bundle to keep things discreet and mess-free when you’re out and about. Whether you’re dipping a toe in or going all in, we’ve got you covered—literally.

Still have questions? Wondering if cloth pads are right for you? Let us know in the comments—we love helping folks find what works best for their bodies and their routines.