Are reusable pads better than period pants?

If you’re switching to sustainable menstrual care, you’ve likely considered two popular options: reusable pads and period underwear (aka period pants). Both are eco-friendly and cost-effective — but which one is better?

The answer depends on your body, your lifestyle, and your flow. In this blog, we’ll compare reusable pads vs. period pants, explore their pros and cons, and help you decide which suits you best.

🩲 What Are Period Pants?

Period underwear is just like regular underwear — but with built-in absorbent layers designed to capture menstrual blood.
Popular for their simplicity and comfort, they eliminate the need for pads or tampons.

Best for:

  • Light to moderate flow

  • Overnight use

  • Everyday comfort

🩹 What Are Reusable Pads?

Reusable pads are cloth alternatives to disposable sanitary pads. They’re made from absorbent materials like bamboo, cotton, or graphene, with a waterproof layer on the bottom.
You snap them into your underwear, just like disposable pads.

Best for:

  • Medium to heavy flow

  • Custom absorbency levels

  • Pairing with menstrual cups or discs

🔍 Comparison Chart

Feature Reusable Pads Period Pants
Absorbency Medium–Heavy (varies by size) Light–Medium (some brands offer heavy)
Comfort Feels like a pad Feels like normal underwear
Visibility Slightly visible in tight clothes Seamless, less visible
Ease of Use Attach to any underwear Wear like regular panties
Washing Rinse & machine wash Rinse & machine wash
Drying Time Faster (smaller pieces) Slower (thicker layers)
Cost Lower initial cost Higher upfront, longer use
Travel Friendly Easy to carry & change Less convenient to change on-the-go

💚 Which One Is More Eco-Friendly?

Both options are reusable and significantly reduce waste compared to disposable products. However:

  • Pads let you reuse the same underwear

  • Period pants eliminate the need for extra layers

  • Both last 2–5 years with proper care

🛍️ Product Recommendations

⭐ Reusable Pads:

  • NYX Collection Graphene Pads – Breathable, antibacterial, lightweight

  • Aisle Pads – Heavy flow protection

  • Hannahpad – Organic cotton, washable

⭐ Period Underwear:

  • NYX Collection Period Underwear – 4-layer protection, stylish and leakproof

  • Thinx – One of the most popular global brands

  • Modibodi – Australian brand with various absorbency levels

🧠 How to Choose

Ask yourself these questions:

  1. How heavy is your flow?

    • Light/moderate: Try period underwear

    • Heavy: Start with reusable pads or layer both

  2. Do you need to change on the go?

    • Reusable pads are easier to swap out than underwear

  3. What’s more comfortable to you?

    • If you dislike the feel of pads, go for period pants

    • If you want flexibility, reusable pads are more versatile

  4. What’s your budget?

    • Pads are cheaper to get started with

    • Period pants may last longer with less variety needed

✅ Final Thoughts

Both reusable pads and period underwear are excellent sustainable options.

  • Reusable pads are best for those who want variety, flexibility, and stronger absorbency.

  • Period pants are best for comfort, simplicity, and leak-proof daily wear.

You don’t have to choose just one — many people mix and match both depending on the day or flow.

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