How to Make Reusable Maxi Pads
The following Best Savings Tip comes from reader, Sarah:
Okay, I know the initial reaction is one of disgust. Mine was too. But the more I thought about it, the more I wanted to try to make these.
If you can sew, then you can make your own washable and reusable maxi pads. They work much better than the disposable ones I think, because they don't fall apart or bunch up and they are more comfortable. Also you can make them the size that you need.
The only thing I did different from the instructions on this website (shown above) was I used a layer of shamwow for the absorbent layer and I used darker colors for the top layer (for obvious reasons). This saves you a LOT of money because you never have to buy maxi pads again! I still buy the free ones when they are available just so I have something to take in my purse but I prefer the ones I make myself!
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Well, now there's something I never thought to make myself. Have you considered making your own maxi pads? The Thrifty Mama has a great post (and interesting discussion) on an alternative to pads.
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I’ve considered it, but I never knew what fabric to use for the waterproof layer. Guess it’s time to do more research and get serious.
With the ‘environmentally friendly’ craze, I’m constantly surprised at how many disposable (trash-making, non-recyclable) products make it to mainstream.
Just think – no more bunching up – pretty cool.
I made my own – hacked an old bath towel into 10×10 squares, fold them into thirds, and tuck them in. No sewing. They unfold for laundering. Been using the same ones for 3 years now, and, while my days of wearing skintight Calvin Klein jeans are over, I can say without regret that I’ll never go back!
Ok, So i have to ask… what do you do when you have to change it and say you’re at work or school? do you put the used one in your purse and take it home? Sorry to be so graphic, I am just sincerely curious!
Throw it in a plastic grocery bag & put it in my purse (contrary to belief, they don’t smell). You could also use the wet-bags mom’s use for cloth diapers, if that makes you more comfortable. Or, just use pads/tampons during that time & cloth while at home. You’re still helping the environment and your wallet. :)
It’s actually the chemicals in tampons and disposable pads that make you smell during that time of the month. There have been plenty of times I’ve used a washcloth when I ran out of my disposables, and they never smell. And yeah, wet bags! My best friend uses them for her son’s cloth diapers. They zip up and are waterproof. Never any smell, even with his soiled diapers. She also has one for her cloth pads. They work great! I haven’t gotten around to getting any cloth pads for me, but they are on my xmas wish list!
With three girls, and myself.. I am seriously wanting to try this. Although my girls are only 7,6 and 4… I know the day isn’t far! What is the best way to wash these? Thanks
i can’t under stand it why in the world do they make them then you run out of them and there you have too go buy more it’s so frustrating bye
I have been trying to think of a way to do this for iincontinance. This would be very helpful. Let me know if you come up with something. I have spent so much on pads for this problem. I think it would be very profitable if they were made to sell.