How to get period blood out of reusable pads?

Reusable pads are a sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective alternative to disposables—but they do need some care to stay sanitary and stain-free. Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think! Here's a simple guide on how to wash your cloth pads and remove period blood effectively.

🩸 Why Proper Cleaning Matters

Blood contains iron and protein, which can cause staining and odors if not cleaned promptly. Keeping your pads clean helps:

  • Prevent bacteria growth

  • Maintain absorbency

  • Extend pad lifespan (up to 5+ years!)

  • Keep them stain-free and odorless

🪣 Step-by-Step: How to Wash Reusable Pads

✅ Step 1: Rinse Immediately After Use

  • Use cold water only – hot water can "set" the stain

  • Rinse until the water runs mostly clear

  • You can gently rub the pad fabric together to help loosen the blood

🧼 Tip: If you're out and about, store your used pad in a wet bag, then rinse it when you get home.

✅ Step 2: Soak in Cold Water (Optional but Effective)

  • Fill a basin with cold water and let your pads soak for a few hours or overnight

  • Add a tablespoon of baking soda or natural oxygen bleach (e.g. OxiClean Free) to help lift stains and odors

  • Change the water every 12 hours if soaking longer

✅ Step 3: Wash by Hand or Machine

🖐 Hand-Wash

  • Use a gentle, unscented soap or detergent

  • Scrub gently, especially in the center where blood tends to collect

  • Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap

🧺 Machine-Wash

  • Place pads in a mesh laundry bag

  • Use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water

  • Avoid fabric softeners (they reduce absorbency)

✅ Step 4: Dry Properly

  • Air dry in the sun: Sunlight naturally bleaches and disinfects!

  • Or hang them in a well-ventilated area indoors

  • Avoid high heat in the dryer—it can damage waterproof layers

❌ What to Avoid

  • No hot water at first – sets the stain

  • No bleach with fragrance – it can irritate your skin

  • No fabric softener – it coats the fibers and reduces absorbency

  • No ironing – heat damages the waterproof layers

🧽 Bonus Tips for Stubborn Stains

  • Make a paste from baking soda + water, gently scrub, let sit, rinse

  • Use a natural stain remover like hydrogen peroxide (sparingly)

  • Sun bleach: Lay pads out in direct sunlight after washing

  • Add a few drops of tea tree oil or white vinegar to rinse water for odor control

📽 Watch & Learn

Check out these helpful videos on YouTube:

🌱 Reusable Pad Brands That Wash Well

Some pads are designed to be especially stain-resistant and easy to wash:

💬 Final Thoughts

Getting period blood out of reusable pads is easy once you build a routine. With a bit of care, your pads will stay clean, soft, and reliable for years. Plus, you’ll be doing your wallet and the planet a favor 🌎❤️.

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