How many reusable period pads do I need?
Of course this depends on how heavy your flow is and how long your period lasts, but it can also depend on how frequently you want to wash them.
As someone with a lighter flow I generally use 3 in 24 hours. I currently put them in the wash every other day with my nappy washes, meaning I could get away with as few as 9 day/night absorbency pads if you factor in a drying day.
Typical cycle
My wash routine looks like this:
Day 1 - wear 1, 2 and 3
Day 2 - wear 4 and 5 (wash on evening of day 2 and hang up to dry) & wear 6
Day 3 - wear 7, 8, 9
Day 4 - wear 1, 2, (wash in the evening and hang up to dry) & wear 3
Day 5 - wear 4, 5 and 6
Day 6 - wear 7 and 8 (wash in the evening and hang up to dry) & wear 9
Day 7 - wear 1, 2 and 3 etc.
Period flow rate
In reality most women have a heavier flow at the beginning than towards the end. Personally this means I also have quite a stash of pantyliners, which I wear throughout the month and on the lightest flow days.
So from a realistic perspective I would suggest having a stash of 9 -10 day or night pads plus another 4-6 pantyliners to make it work comfortably, and a spare for your handbag to avoid being caught short.
As I usually wear a pantyliner every day, it means I’m never completely without anything. This is particularly useful with my unpredictable cycle.
Start with just a few
If you are looking to build a stash then an exact number shouldn’t be your target. Start off slowly & you will naturally figure out over a few months how many you need.
The first aim should be to find out which pads and absorbency level work for you, which is where my starter bundles and subscription box can be an ideal place to start.
For more straight forward practical tips, have a read of my further blogs: