A quick pre-wash before first use is recommended advice for all new reusable products. This is because it helps to kick start their absorbency. You should also make sure they are perfectly dry too!

Most of us are excited to try out our new purchase as soon as we get our hands on them, however as with every life changing experience, preparation is key.

Why is pre-washing such a key step to a successful cloth pad trial?

There are a few reasons why it makes sense:

1. All fabric increases it’s absorbency once it has been washed.

   If you take a brand new reusable pad and run it under the tap, you’ll likely see the water run off the surface - which isn’t really idea when you are depending on it to absorb your period blood.

2. Laundry detergent actually agitates and separates the absorbent fibres hidden within the layers of your reusable cloth pad, as does the process of churning, rinsing and spinning.

This gives them the capacity to hold more liquid between those fibres.

3. Any newly manufactured item contains fabric remnants and traces of chemicals used in it’s production environment so it’s always a good idea to eliminate these if possible before wearing next to your skin.

So how can I do this as fast as possible?

• A quick cycle with detergent is all that is needed, but detergent is important here so make sure it is a wash and not just a rinse.

• If you can possibly air dry your pads this is the best way to get them dry, without the use of heat, however take a look at my popular blog entry on how to dry reusable pads a period pants.

  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 blogs:

• How to wash reusable period pads or period underwear

• How many reusable period pads do I need?

• How to store reusable period pads