How to Remove Urine Smell from Reusable Pads: Freshen Up the Right Way

If you’ve noticed a lingering ammonia or urine smell in your reusable pads — don’t worry. It’s a common issue and totally fixable. With the right washing routine and a few natural odor-fighting ingredients, you can keep your cloth pads smelling fresh and clean.

🧼 Why Do Reusable Pads Smell Like Urine?

Urine contains ammonia and urea, which can build up in absorbent fabric over time — especially if:

  • Pads aren’t rinsed soon after use

  • Washing water is too hot initially (sets odors)

  • Pads don’t dry completely

  • Residual detergent builds up, trapping odor

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Eliminate Urine Odor from Pads

1. Rinse Immediately

After using the pad, rinse it in cold water to flush out as much urine as possible. Don’t use hot water — it can set the smell.

2. Soak with a Natural Deodorizer

Soak the pads for a few hours in cold water mixed with:

  • 1–2 tbsp white vinegar OR

  • 1 tbsp baking soda OR

  • A few drops of tea tree oil (antibacterial and deodorizing)

💡 You can also try a splash of lemon juice to neutralize odors.

3. Wash Thoroughly

Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Wash by hand or in the machine:

  • Cold or warm cycle

  • Use an extra rinse cycle to ensure no detergent residue is left behind

  • Add a ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse if odor persists

4. Dry Completely

  • Sun-drying is best — sunlight naturally kills bacteria and neutralizes smells

  • If using a dryer, go for low heat only to avoid damage

🛑 What Not to Do

  • Don’t use fabric softeners (they trap odors)

  • Don’t use bleach regularly (damages fabrics)

  • Avoid storing damp pads in airtight bags for long periods

🌿 Optional Deep-Clean Treatment (Once a Month)

If odor returns, do a deep strip wash:

  1. Soak pads in hot water with 1 tbsp of OxiClean Free or a laundry stripping mix (washing soda + borax + detergent)

  2. Let sit 4–6 hours

  3. Wash as usual with a double rinse

Final Thoughts

Urine odor in reusable pads is manageable with regular rinsing, odor-neutralizing soaks, and complete drying. Once you establish a simple care routine, your pads will stay fresh, soft, and ready to support you — period or otherwise

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