How do I wash my Washable Sanitary Napkins?

Do you want to know the best way to wash your cloth sanitary towels? Here is a blog article that will give you some tips… and is followed by PART 2: Choosing a soap to wash cloth sanitary pads and PART 3: Getting to know the new Cloth-Pad-Soap made by our friends at

Steps for washing washable sanitary pads
We are often asked how to wash our cloth sanitary pads. There are a few essential steps when it comes to washing reusable sanitary pads.

The EcoFemme product brochure has recently been updated. Here it is!
In the care instructions we share a step-by-step washing routine. Take a look, you might find it useful even if you already use cloth sanitary pads.

• Soak in cold water: It is essential to soak the bandage in cold water first. This makes it possible to properly remove the blood from all materials. As the blood dries out or is heated it adheres to the fabric, so it is important to avoid hot water during the first rinse. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
• Face the bloody side down: Placing the used side face down facilitates the soaking routine. By pointing the bandage downwards “it falls” the blood from the fabric to the bottom of the bucket of water, instead of being absorbed deeper into the sanitary napkin if it is soaked with the top side up. Try it out and notice the difference!
• After soaking, rinse with cold water until the water runs clear, this will remove most of the blood from the fabric.
• Washing with soap further helps to remove residues, especially to wash out the fat-based blood components. After pre-soaking, you can wash the sanitary towel by hand or in the washing machine together with other clothes.
• Shape the pad, Pulling the wet cloth sanitary pad into shape helps to maintain the shape and prevent shrinkage of cotton.
• Thorough drying is important. You can do this on a washing line or in a dryer at a low temperature.
• Drying in direct sunlight can help prevent stains and is a natural disinfection method.

Additional tips for washing cloth sanitary pads
You can find more care tips in the FAQ section of our website. Here are a few:

• Use a little baking soda (not baking powder) to tackle old stains that you haven't washed before.
• Add a little white vinegar to the water of your last rinse to keep the fabric soft. This is especially useful if you live in an area with hard water.
• Add a few drops of essential oil to the water, such as rose, lavender or lemongrass, to give your sanitary towels a wonderful scent.
• The foldable sanitary napkin is ideal for quick drying. You can unfold it! This is especially useful when traveling, in cold climates and during the monsoon season in India.

Your own washing routine for washable sanitary towels
Every user of cloth sanitary towels develops their own washing routine that suits the rhythm and habits of their lives.
Some wash each sanitary towel immediately after use . Others wash their daily batch at the end of each menstrual day. Still others collect all the sanitary pads during their entire menstrual period and wash them all together at the end. Find out what works for you.