Switching to cloth menstrual pads is an exciting step toward a more sustainable period. But once you decide to make the switch, you’re faced with an important question: which fabric should you choose? The fabric that touches your skin can make a huge difference in comfort, absorbency, and overall experience.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore the best fabric for cloth menstrual pads, helping you understand the pros and cons of each option. Whether you’re looking for ultimate softness, maximum absorbency, or skin-friendly materials, this article will help you make the perfect choice for your body and needs.
Why Fabric Choice Matters for Cloth Pads
The top layer of your cloth pad (sometimes called the “topper”) is what sits directly against your skin during your period. This fabric needs to:
- Feel comfortable against sensitive skin
- Absorb menstrual flow effectively
- Control moisture and wetness
- Hold up to frequent washing
- Work with your specific flow and comfort needs
Unlike disposable pads with their plastic-feeling tops, cloth pads offer a world of fabric options. Let’s explore the most popular choices so you can find your perfect match.
Natural Fiber Options for Cloth Menstrual Pads
Cotton Velour
Cotton velour is a popular choice for cloth pad toppers because of its plush, soft texture. It has a slight pile (raised fuzzy surface) that provides excellent absorption for heavy flows.
The texture of velour helps prevent “gushing” problems where menstrual flow might run off the pad before being absorbed. This makes it especially good for heavy periods or times when you experience sudden heavier flow.
However, cotton velour does have some drawbacks. It can feel warmer than smoother fabrics, which might not be ideal during summer months. Some users also report it feels a bit wetter against the skin than other options. To deal with this, you might need to change your pad more frequently.
While cotton velour typically only comes in solid colors rather than fun prints, it remains a cozy, absorbent option particularly suited for nighttime use or heavy days.
Bamboo-Cotton Blends
Bamboo-cotton blends offer a wonderfully soft and smooth texture that many pad users love. This fabric feels like a lightweight, luxurious sweatshirt against your skin.
The natural properties of bamboo make these blends extraordinarily soft and absorbent. They wick moisture away from your skin quickly and provide a good absorbency boost without adding bulk to your pad.
One drawback is that bamboo-cotton blends typically come in solid colors only, limiting your style options. They can also show staining more easily than synthetic fabrics, though regular stain treatment can help manage this.
For overall performance, bamboo-cotton blends rank among the best fabrics for cloth menstrual pads, offering an excellent balance of comfort and function.
100% Organic Cotton
If natural materials are your priority, 100% organic cotton toppers offer peace of mind. For those with sensitivities or who simply prefer organic materials against their skin, this fabric is an excellent choice.
Organic cotton absorbs quickly and efficiently, making it great for preventing leaks. It handles heavy flows well and doesn’t allow blood to run across the surface of the pad.
The main downside is that organic cotton isn’t as soft as other options. While perfectly comfortable, it lacks the plushness of velour or bamboo blends. It’s also the most prone to staining among natural fabrics.
For those prioritizing natural materials and absorption over ultimate softness, organic cotton remains a solid, environmentally-friendly choice.
Cotton-Lycra (Cotton-Spandex)
Cotton-Lycra, sometimes called cotton-spandex or cotton jersey, feels like a high-quality t-shirt against your skin. This fabric is typically 95% cotton with 5% lycra or spandex for stretch.
The biggest advantage of cotton-lycra is availability in fun prints and patterns. If having colorful, cute designs helps make your period more bearable, this fabric offers the most options.
Cotton-lycra provides good absorbency for light to moderate flows. Its smooth texture keeps you cooler than textured fabrics like velour, making it perfect for warmer weather.
While it may not absorb quite as quickly as organic cotton or velour, cotton-lycra remains one of the most popular choices for its balance of comfort, style, and performance.
Synthetic Options for Cloth Menstrual Pads
Athletic Wicking Jersey (AWJ)
Athletic Wicking Jersey is a polyester fabric designed to pull moisture away from your skin. Similar to fabrics used in workout clothes, AWJ creates a drier feeling against your skin.
This fabric works well for people who dislike feeling any wetness. It’s also more stain-resistant than natural fibers and comes in various prints and patterns.
The main drawback is that some users find polyester less breathable than natural fibers. However, for those prioritizing a dry feeling, AWJ offers excellent performance.
Minky Fabric
Minky is an ultra-soft polyester fabric with a plush, raised texture. It feels incredibly soft against your skin and comes in beautiful colors and patterns.
The texture of minky helps with absorption, similar to velour. It’s also highly stain-resistant and maintains its softness even after many washes.
Like velour, minky can feel warmer than smoother fabrics, which might be uncomfortable during hot weather. Some users also find it doesn’t absorb quite as quickly as natural fibers for very heavy flows.
Comparing Cloth Pad Fabrics: Finding Your Perfect Match
| Fabric Type | Best For | Absorbency | Softness | Stain Resistance | Breathability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton Velour | Heavy flow, overnight | Excellent | Very Good | Fair | Good |
| Bamboo-Cotton | Overall performance | Very Good | Excellent | Fair | Very Good |
| Organic Cotton | Maximum absorbency | Excellent | Good | Poor | Excellent |
| Cotton-Lycra | Everyday, fun designs | Good | Very Good | Fair | Very Good |
| Athletic Wicking Jersey | Stay-dry feeling | Good | Good | Excellent | Fair |
| Minky | Comfort, stain resistance | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | Fair |
How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Needs
When selecting the best fabric for your cloth menstrual pads, consider these factors:
Your flow heaviness plays a big role in fabric choice. For heavy flows, fabrics with texture like velour or highly absorbent organic cotton work best. For lighter flows, almost any fabric will perform well.
Think about the climate where you live. In hot weather, smooth fabrics like cotton-lycra or bamboo blends feel cooler against your skin. In colder months, plusher options like velour or minky provide extra coziness.
Consider your sensitivity to wetness. If feeling damp bothers you, try athletic wicking jersey or other synthetic options that create more of a stay-dry feeling.
Your personal values might guide your choice too. If organic materials matter most to you, organic cotton is the clear winner despite being less soft than other options.
And don’t forget about visual appeal! If having fun prints makes your period more bearable, cotton-lycra offers the most design options. Remember that pads with pretty patterns can actually make your period days a little brighter!
Caring for Your Cloth Pads
No matter which fabric you choose, proper care helps your cloth pads last longer. Rinse fresh blood in cold water as soon as possible. For washing, use gentle detergent without fabric softeners, which can reduce absorbency.
For natural fiber pads that show staining, try sunning them dry outdoors – sunshine is nature’s bleach! Synthetic fabrics like minky or AWJ generally resist staining better.
Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Cloth Pads
How to make a pad with cloth?
Making a cloth pad is simpler than you might think. Start with a basic pattern. Layer your fabrics – cotton on top, absorbent materials in the middle, and PUL fabric on bottom. Sew around the edges. Add snaps to the wings. That’s all you need for a basic pad. The whole process takes about 30 minutes once you get the hang of it.
What fabric to use for reusable pads?
For the top layer, use 100% cotton or cotton flannel. These materials are soft and gentle on your skin. The middle layer should be absorbent – bamboo terry, hemp fabric, or cotton batting work great. For the bottom layer, always use PUL fabric or WindPro fleece. These create a waterproof barrier that prevents leaks. Make sure all fabrics are prewashed before sewing.
Can I use a washcloth as a pad?
While washcloths can work as a temporary solution, they aren’t ideal for regular use. They lack a waterproof barrier. They can shift around too much. They also don’t have wings to keep them in place. A proper cloth pad will be more comfortable and reliable. Plus, washcloths might be too thick and bulky for comfortable wear.
How to make cloth pads by hand without sewing?
You can make no-sew cloth pads using fabric glue and snap fasteners. Layer your fabrics. Use fabric glue to hold the layers together. Add snap fasteners with pliers. However, these will not be as durable as stitched pads. They might need replacing sooner. The glue might also wash out over time. To achieve optimal results, gaining basic sewing skills is well worth the effort.
How to make pads DIY?
Start by gathering your materials – fabric, scissors, and snaps. Create or download a pattern that fits your needs. Cut your fabric layers according to the pattern. Stack them in the right order. Sew around the edges, leaving a small opening. Turn the pad right side out. Close the opening with a few stitches. Finally, add snap fasteners to the wings. Make your first pad as a test piece. Then adjust the size or shape if needed.
Conclusion: Making Your Choice
The best fabric for cloth menstrual pads ultimately depends on your unique body and preferences. Many pad users find that having a variety of fabrics works well – perhaps velour for overnight, cotton-lycra for daytime, and athletic wicking jersey for active days.
Consider starting with a few different fabric options to discover what works best for your body. Remember that your needs might change throughout your cycle as your flow varies in heaviness.
By choosing the right fabric for your cloth menstrual pads, you’re not just making an eco-friendly choice – you’re creating a more comfortable, personalized period experience.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Are you ready to try cloth menstrual pads with the perfect fabric for your needs? Start with just a few pads in different fabrics to discover what works best for your body. Your perfect period awaits with the right cloth pad fabric choice!