How to store reusable period pads
The way to store pads out and about (and be ready to change when you need to) is a complete life hack!
Pads don’t actually tend to take up as much space as you would think…but that will depend on how many cloth pads you need to manage your own individual cycle. They may seem bulkier than a tampon or a disposable pad, individually or as a pack, so it’s worth considering where is best to keep them so they are conveniently ready when you need them.
Let’s start with thinking about how you store period pads when you leave the house…
How to store reusable pads when you’re not at home
Keep a spare pad in a small wet bag in your handbag. Then all you have to do is swap your pad and store the used pad safely in the wet bag until you arrive home. I used to worry that I would forget to take it out again, but somehow having a pad in your pants which you change before bed anyway is usually enough to trigger that memory. So you don’t have to make it that first thing you do when you walk through the door and drop those bags…☺️
For further help on how to make reusable pads work out of the house, take a look at my dedicated blog entry.
I say it’s a life hack because any cloth bum mum will tell you wet bags can be used as a more eco-friendly storage pouch for so many things…but let’s stay on track.
Storing clean pads at home
I am a pad-a-holic, loud and proud, so if I had enough appropriate storage in the bathroom I’d build them their own mini display shelf!
But for now I keep them in a double wet bag in a drawer under the bathroom sink. The double pocket means I can keep my daily pantyliners in the pocket, and my period day pads in the other main section. But it’s all down to personal preference and circumstances.
Everyone has different sensitivities when it comes to these things, and when you’re trialling pads for the first time you can be excited, or nervous, but most importantly you are working out how they fit in for you. And part of that is working out where is most convenient to store them for you.
A few ideas for home storage
In the bathroom, or bedroom
In a drawer, possibly with your underwear
In a basket
In a cabinet
In a wet bag
With so many beautiful pad options available, from colourful brights to soft feminine prints and minimal all black styles, it’s a shame to keep your pads hidden away. They are way more attractive to the eye than a pack of disposables and therefore I encourage anyone to have no fear in having your pads on display whether drying, or stacked ready for use.
Storing used pads
When I’ve used and then rinsed them with warm water, either in the sink or shower, I put them for the foreseeable in my nappy bucket. For those who aren’t using cloth nappies, an icecream or Tupperware or Klip Lock type tub also works just as well. Particularly if you are just starting out and you aren’t ready to go all in just yet.
You can also use a wet or storage bag, such as available in my shop, because this is what they are designed for. Wet bags allow air to circulate but keep the dampness in, and are easily washable. They usually have a handle meaning they can be hung up and therefore take up minimal space.
Otherwise I’ve seen images of them being stored in wicker or linen baskets, jewellery boxes, treasure chests…. use your imagination and they could add an extra interior design touch you’d not previously thought of!
Suggestions
Hippynut mini or double bags can be great for storing used damp pads and Baba & Boo are a good size for used and damp pants until wash day.
For more straight forward practical tips, have a read of my further blogs: