How to Wash Cloth Pads & Period Underwear: Care, Stains and Odor

Reusable cloth pads and period underwear are easy to care for once you have a simple routine. You usually do not need complicated soaking methods or special laundry products. A cold rinse, a normal wash, and proper drying will handle most everyday use.

If you are new to reusable menstrual products, the most important thing is to follow the care instructions for the specific brand you own. Fabrics, waterproof layers, elastics, and construction methods can vary.

1. Store Used Pads and Period Underwear Dry

You do not need to keep used pads or period underwear soaking in water until laundry day. In fact, prolonged soaking can create odor and makes storage less convenient.

Instead, place used items in a breathable laundry container or wet bag until you are ready to wash them. If you rinse immediately after use, squeeze out excess water before storing them so they are not sitting wet for long periods.

2. Rinse With Cold Water Before Washing

Cold water is useful for rinsing blood from fabric before washing. You can rinse each item right after use, or simply rinse everything together before putting it in the washing machine.

Continue rinsing until the water runs mostly clear. Avoid very hot water during the initial rinse, since heat can make some protein-based stains harder to remove.

3. Machine Wash Normally

For most reusable cloth pads and period underwear, a regular machine wash with your usual laundry detergent works well. Use enough detergent for the size and soil level of the load. Using too little detergent can leave body oils, blood residue, and odor behind.

Avoid fabric softener. Fabric softener can coat fibers and may reduce absorbency. We also recommend avoiding bleach unless the manufacturer specifically allows it, since bleach can damage fabrics, elastics, snaps, or waterproof layers.

4. Dry Thoroughly

Most reusable pads and period underwear can be hung to dry. Some brands can also be tumble dried on low heat. Always check the brand's care instructions before using higher temperatures.

Sunlight can also help fade lingering stains naturally. Make sure items are completely dry before storing them.

Got a Stubborn Stain?

Some stains need a little extra help even when the item is fully clean. For spot treatment, we now carry the Plantish Stain Remover Block.

Wet the stained area and the stain block, gently work the product into the fabric, then wash as usual. It is a useful option for older or more stubborn marks that do not come out with a normal wash.

Pads or Period Underwear Not Coming Clean Like They Used To?

Sometimes the problem is not a single stain. Detergent residue, hard-water minerals, and general buildup can accumulate over time and make reusable products feel less fresh.

For occasional laundry treatment, we carry RLR Laundry Treatment. It is intended for periodic use when regular washing is no longer getting laundry as clean as expected.

RLR is not something you need in every load. Think of it as a troubleshooting option when buildup may be contributing to odor or reduced freshness.

What to Avoid

• Fabric softener, which can coat absorbent fibers.
• Bleach, unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it.
• Excessive heat, especially for products with elastic or waterproof layers.
• Leaving reusable products damp for long periods.
• Ignoring brand-specific care instructions.

Special Care for Domino Pads

Domino Pads are handmade in Texas and designed for long-term use. Wash them in water no hotter than 40°C / 105°F and either tumble dry low or hang dry.

Do not fold or tightly roll Domino Pads for storage. Their wings use a single-layer construction, so keeping them flat helps protect the fabric and snaps over time.

With good care, reusable cloth pads can last for years. Some of the oldest Domino Pads we have verified are still in use after more than a decade.

Want More Help Choosing Reusable Period Products?

If you are still deciding what type of reusable product works best for you, browse our guides and all-brand collections below.

Care instructions can vary by brand. When in doubt, follow the instructions provided with the specific pad or period underwear you own.