How To Wash Reusable Pads
Washing reusable pads is easier than most people expect: rinse or soak if you want to help prevent stains, then machine wash cold with your regular laundry and tumble dry low or line dry. That’s it. No special washing routine, no separate load required, and no need to stress about light staining — once your cloth pads are washed, they’re clean and ready to use again.
Below, we’ll walk you through exactly how to wash cloth pads, how to store used pads until laundry day, and what to avoid so your GladRags stay absorbent for years.
Before You Wear Them: Wash First
Before using your pads for the first time, run them through a wash and dry cycle. This removes any residue from production or shipping, fluffs up the absorbent layers, and gets them fresh and ready.
One note on returns: Once pads have been washed or used, they're no longer eligible for return. If you're on the fence about a style, wash and test one before washing the whole set. Figure out what styles make sense for you flow using our quiz to get a personalized recommendation
The Short Version
If you just want the basics:
- Separate inserts from holders (pantyliners go straight in as-is)
- Rinse or soak in cold water — optional, but helps with staining
- Machine wash cold with regular detergent
- Tumble dry low or hang to dry
That's the whole routine. Everything below is just detail.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Reusable Pads
Step 1: After You Use a Pad
If you're out: Fold the used pad inward, snap the wings closed, and tuck it into a Carry Bag until you get home. Our Carry Bags are designed for exactly this — discreet, compact, and easy to toss in a purse or bag.
If you're home: Rinse under cold water and either wash right away or store in a designated container or wet bag until laundry day.
Step 2: Separate the Inserts
Before washing, remove the inserts from Day Pads and Night Pads.
Pantyliners are a single piece and go straight into the wash. Separating inserts ensures everything gets fully clean and dries properly.
Step 3: Rise or Soak (Optional but Recommended)
A quick rinse or cold soak before the wash cycle helps prevent staining and loosens any buildup. Always use cold water — hot water sets blood stains rather than lifting them.
For any visible stains, a body-friendly stain stick applied before washing makes a real difference. We recommend the Buncha Farmers stain stick, available on our website.
Step 4: Wash
Wash with your regular laundry on cold or warm. Your usual detergent is fine.
Avoid bleach and fabric softeners — both break down cotton fibers over time and reduce absorbency.
Tip: A mesh laundry bag keeps all your pads and inserts together in the wash so nothing gets lost in a large load.
Step 5: Dry
Two options:
- Tumble dry low — quick and easy
- Hang to dry — better for long-term longevity
Either works. If you tumble dry, smooth the pads out while they're still warm to reduce wrinkling.
Making sure your reusable pads are completely dry before storing will help make your pads last for years to come.
FAQs
Do reusable pads stain?
Sometimes, yes — and that's normal. A light stain doesn't mean your pads aren't clean. Cotton is fully washable and safe to reuse even with minor discoloration. Rinsing sooner, using a stain stick, and air drying will help prevent and lighten stains over time.
Do reusable pads smell?
Not when washed and stored properly. Odor usually only develops if pads sit for too long without airflow or aren't fully dry before storage. To prevent odor: store in a breathable bag (not sealed plastic), wash every few days while you're using them, and make sure pads are completely dry before putting them away.
Can I wash reusable pads with my regular laundry?
Yes — they don't need to be washed separately. Throw them in with whatever load you're already doing, as long as you're washing cold and skipping the fabric softener.
How long do reusable pads last?
GladRags pads are guaranteed for at least 5 years with regular washing. Many customers use theirs for 10 years or more.
