If you are breastfeeding, nursing pads quickly become one of the most-used things you own. The big question: reusable or disposable? The honest answer is that it depends on your day, and most mums end up with a bit of both.
Reusable nursing pads
Best for: home, overnight, and mums who want less waste.
- Soft, breathable fabrics like bamboo feel gentle on tender skin
- Usually more absorbent, great for heavy leaks and nights
- Save money over time, because you wash and reuse them
- Need washing, so you will want a few pairs in rotation
Disposable nursing pads
Best for: the hospital bag, outings, travel and busy days.
- Slim and discreet under clothes
- Change and toss, no washing required
- Handy to keep in the car, nappy bag and handbag
- Create more waste and cost more over the long run
How many do you need?
In the early weeks, many mums change pads several times a day. A good starting point is three pairs of reusables (one on, one in the wash, one spare) plus a pack of disposables for when you are out and about.
Whichever you choose
- Change pads as soon as they feel damp
- Choose breathable materials against your skin
- Check the fit, a pad that bunches can rub
This article is general information, written by mums for mums. It isn't medical advice. If something doesn't feel right, trust that feeling and talk to your GP, midwife or child health nurse.
The Louise Poire solution
Why not both? Most mums do.
Our tip, mum to mum: reusables by the bed, disposables in the bag. The Forever Pad holds up to 30ml with up to 12 hours of protection and comes with a wash bag, in Ivory or Noir. The Just-in-Case Pad is a slim, soft bamboo-surface disposable, 50 to a pack.
Forever Pad, Ivory → · Forever Pad, Noir → · Just-in-Case Pad →
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