How Many Reusable Pads Do I Need?
It's the first question almost everyone asks when they decide to make the switch. The good news: there's no complicated math here.
This guide walks you through estimating how many reusable pads you need based on your flow, which styles make sense for different days, and how to build your collection without overbuying.
For a quick, personalized assessment of what pads may work best for your click the button below to take out quiz!
Step 1: Count Your Disposables
The simplest starting point is to count how many disposable products you use in a typical cycle. Then replace them one-for-one.
Example: A moderate flow that lasts about a week might look like:
- 10 disposable pads → 10 Day Pads
- 4 pantyliners → 4 Pantyliners
That's it. If you know your flow varies — heavier in the middle, lighter at the start and end — make a note of which days you reach for a bigger size. That'll help you figure out the right mix of styles.
Step 2: Know Your Flow
Light Flow
Common at the beginning or end of a cycle — or throughout, for some people.
- Changing a pad or liner every 4–6 hours feels like plenty
- A pantyliner covers you comfortably all day
- Spotting (small amounts of blood that don't need full coverage) falls here too
Moderate Flow
What most people experience during the middle days of their period.
- Changing every 3–5 hours feels about right
- A day pad is the go-to for most of the cycle
- Longer stretches without a change start to feel risky
Heavy Flow
Usually the peak days of a cycle — or postpartum, or flow affected by a health condition.
- Changing every 2–3 hours
- Needing extra absorbent pads for the day
- Overnight pads are a must for sleeping
- Leaking onto underwear is a real concern if changes get delayed
Best for light menstrual flow or spotting, daily discharge protection, light bladder leaks (sneezing, laughing, exercise), and backup for a cup or disc.
GladRags Pantyliners come in Regular, Plus, and Thong sizes. Plus adds a bit of length and width if you want a little more coverage. Our Pantyliners are small, thin, and flexible making them ideal for everyday wear.
Best for moderate flow (especially mid-cycle), more frequent light bladder leaks, and days when you want reliable coverage without going to a full overnight pad.
GladRags Day Pads feature a holder with two removable inserts, allowing you to customize the absorbency depending on your needs.
The Day Pad is available in Regular or Plus sizes, with the Plus version offering extra length and width for added protection and comfort.
Best for heavy bleeding, overnight protection, postpartum recovery, and any time you want maximum coverage and peace of mind.
Night Pads offer more coverage front-to-back, which matters when you're shifting positions in your sleep or sitting for long stretches. Like Day Pads, they include two inserts for adjustable absorbency. Available in Regular and Plus.
Step 4: Start Small or Save with a Kit
You don't have to buy a full cycle's worth up front. Starting with a few pads and washing mid-cycle is a completely reasonable way to test the waters before committing to a larger collection.
Example starter approach:
- Normally use 10 day pads → start with 5 Day Pads
- Normally use 4 pantyliners → start with 2 Pantyliners
Ways to save as you build
- 3-packs of any style save $5
- Add 5 or more pads to your cart and save $1 per item (including 3-packs that already save $5)
The Long-Term Math
The average person uses 200–300 disposable pads per year. If you're buying organic or "natural" disposables, that's roughly $200–$350 annually — or $1,000+ over five years. A one-time investment in a full collection covers you for years and pays for itself quickly.
Start With A Kit And Save
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Light Flow SamplerLight Flow Sampler- Regular price
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$39.00 $47.00 - Regular price
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- Sale price
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$39.00 $47.00
Quick view
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Heavy Flow SamplerHeavy Flow Sampler- Regular price
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$82.00 $95.00 - Regular price
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- Sale price
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$82.00 $95.00
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Cloth Pad Complete Size KitCloth Pad Complete Size Kit- Regular price
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$120.00 $137.00 - Regular price
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- Sale price
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$120.00 $137.00
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Cloth Pad Starter KitCloth Pad Starter Kit- Regular price
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$120.00 $141.00 - Regular price
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- Sale price
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$120.00 $141.00
Quick view
Step 5: Adjust As You Go
Your first setup probably won't be perfect, and that's fine. After a cycle or two you'll have a much clearer sense of what you actually reach for — maybe you want the extra length the Plus gives you, or you realize you need a few extra pads for travel. You can always keep building your collection over time.
The goal isn't to get it exactly right on the first order. It's to get started.
FAQs
Can I use cloth pads with a menstrual cup?
Yes — Pantyliners work well as backup for cups or discs.
How often should I change a reusable pad?
About as often as you'd change a disposable — every 2–6 hours, depending on flow. This is similar to disposables, but if you're comparing the two, the experience can feel a little different. There's a short learning curve while you get a feel for your body's rhythm, just like with any new product.
Can I mix regular and plus sized pads?
Absolutely. Most people do — it just depends on the day and what feels right.
How many pads do I need for postpartum?
Postpartum bleeding is heavier than a typical cycle, so Night Pads or Night Pad Plus are usually best. How many you need depends on how often you want to wash: plan on 1–2 per day, so 7–14 for a week's worth, or buy half that and plan to wash mid-week. Check out our postpartum kit to get everything you may need for all stages of postpartum bleeding and beyond.