Best reusable period pads in the UK
The UK cloth pad market has exploded over the last 3 years. Pads are constantly evolving with new design and fabric technology, which is one of the reasons it gets me so passionate!
With more of us looking to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle, a quick trial of just one pad can be all you need to get you hooked…
But which are the best pads on the market?
The most best way of choosing your ideal reusable sanitary pad is to funnel down your options, based on your own particular needs.
When women are messaging me I always find out what they have been using previously; and why it hasn’t been working for them as well as they would like.
The best place to start is to find a pad that works for you during your heaviest flow first, then figure out how many of those you need. Once this is sorted, then you can always build a collection of lighter absorbency pads to top up after those heaviest days and nights.
Here are a few key things to think about when choosing a reusable pad:
How would you rate your flow at it’s heaviest?
What top layer of fabric would be best for you?
Are you concerned about how slim the pad is? (overnight it’s not always a priority, absorbency is more important when you’re sleeping)
Do you need pads to suit an active lifestyle?
Budget
Just because a pad is made by a respectable period underwear brand and it looks all black, modern and super slick, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good design (trust me, I have been trialling lots of them).
Best pads for heavy periods
Baba & Boo extra large - are my go-to as a starting point for heavy periods, they are reasonably priced, super absorbent and perfect for heavy periods overnight.
Wear ‘em out Mega-Mega - this is the most absorbent pad I have in stock and will cope with the heaviest of flows during the day or night, the Mega is also a good option but not as long.
Hippynut night pad - this is super slim and full of natural bamboo absorbent layers inside, great for heavy flow during the day.
Elskbar heavy flow pad - ergonomically shaped, slim and super soft to the touch, these are super comfortable for heavy flow during the day or night (and ideal for front bleeders).
Best pads for regular flow period
Honour your flow maxi pad - when your period is still flowing the super concentrated organic cotton layers inside mean this pad can last all day comfortably.
La Petite Ourse day pad - a great value 2 pack that are affordable enough to make up the bulk of your stash.
Best pads for light flow days
Honour your flow regular pad and Elskbar medium flow - when you want something that you can barely feel there.
Hippynut pantyliner - absorbent enough for your lighter period days, these are the pad I always keep in my handbag (in case of any surprises) as I know it’s absorbent enough for my day one flow, or until I get home.
Further recommendations
For other specific needs, check out my recommendations page “Which pad is best for me?” or for a recommendation based on your preferred underwear type see “How to stop reusable period pads from slipping or moving about”.
Pads by underwear compatibility is even a filter in my online shop!
Life changing
If you’re still a bit on the fence, I’m here for you. And if you would like to see some testimonials of women who I have introduced pads to for the first time, read my quick guide.
Help guides
For more straight forward practical tips on how to switch to reusables without adding to your existing workload, have a read of my further articles/blogs:
