Why use a reusable nursing pad over a disposable?

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Reusable nursing pads, or breast pads, act as sanitary towels for your breasts. Nursing pads are made from fine absorbent cotton-like materials that keep the leaking breast milk from reaching your nursing bra or shirt. Nursing pads are quite essential for lactating mothers and are often used during last days of pregnancy and throughout nursing until the mother stops making milk. There are possibilities of leaking breast milk more when the baby needs more milk, when Mom is away from baby, in-between nursing sessions and on the opposite breast when your baby is breastfeeding . So, to avoid leaking of breast milk every lactating mother need nursing pads. These pads are applicable to mothers who do not breastfeed their babies too and can help pad a regular bra making it more comfortable and for better wear under clothing.

reusable nursing pad or disposable nursing pad

How nursing pads are used

All the nursing pads are designed in such a way as they can be worn inside your bra covering your nipple and aerola. Breast pads should be changed frequently even if they are not soaked with milk. If you leave the wet pad on for hours there is the risk of forming thrush and infection on the breasts. Washable nursing pads are great becasue they can be changed frequently and washed as needed.

Which are the Best Nursing Pads

Now, we can see the qualities of Best Nursing Pads.

  • They should be comfortable
  • The nursing pad is to stay in place to avoid the possible leaks .Some pads have a sticky back side that sticks to your bra .Others are large
  • The nursing pad has to be absorbent, if you use low quality pads they may leave wet patches on the top side of the pad.
  • The breast pads have to be somewhat thick.
  • See the quality of the pad than the price.

Disposable Nursing Pads

Disposable nursing pads are for single use only .They can be thrown away after use .The benefits of using disposable nursing pads include

  • Convenient to use
  • They are discreet
  • They are quite hygienic
  • They have more absorbency.

There are certain drawbacks in using disposable breast pads; you need to see that also before you consider buying disposable nursing pads.

  • Price: A single breast pad does not cost much. But when you use them on an ongoing basis and change frequently it can cost you more. So, it is better to purchase reusable products in bulk to save money.
  • Plastic product: It is not very comfortable to use plastic nursing pads for long periods and they often can cause discomfort and are not as soft and comfortable as cotton. Moreover, a disposable product has to be thrown away and is not environmentally friendly.
  • Breathability: Most of the manufacturers of disposable nursing pads claim their product has extreme breathability. As these disposable pads are plastic backed they are more prone to fungal infections such as thrush. Natural fibers are well known for breathability and comfort.
  • Uncomfortable: Almost all disposable nursing pads are made of artificial materials. You may feel itchy and uncomfortable. If you have sensitive skin things can be worse.

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Why select a reusable nursing pad over a disposable nursing pad? Reusable nursing pads are great for breastfeeding Moms. Weather you're using a breast pump, nursing at the breast or a combination, washable breast pads are great for absorbing breast milk leaks, concealing nipples, for comfort and for keeping natural nipple balm off of your bra.

Some of the best selling disposable nursing pads reportedly contain unwanted chemicals and toxins. They are mostly absorbent, soft and discreet and are thrown away after use. One of the main drawbacks is that you has to buy in bulk, and they are sticky also. In addition, you can run out and find yourself without nursing pads. Some are not individually wrapped and some are quite expensive.

Bamboo Based Nursing Pads: These types of nursing pads are quiet unique. They are backed by a bamboo layer instead of plastic. They are waterproof and quiet hygienic to use. By using these organic nursing pads you may get zero chances of infection. They are eco-friendly and also increase the breathability of the nipples. The peculiar shape of these organic nursing pads prevents them slipping.

They are individually wrapped and sealed and made of antibacterial fibers.They are very discreet and absorbent.

The only drawback is the Gel like filling that can burst open, much like a disposable diaper, and cause a difficult to clean mess. They are super soft, can be washed and reused. They are quite comfortable to use especially during night.

The most reliable reusable pads are large and can hold milk before it leaks through. They have mostly bamboo based backings which are so soft and comfortable. These nursing pads may match your budget, they are cool and breathable. The only defect is that they are little bulky.

Silicone Breast Pads

These are thin having silicon shapes and holds to the breasts firmly and avoids leaking..They can be reused for long term depending upon the quality. They are very usable while swimming, discreet, but a little expensive.

Most of the reusable nursing pads provide cool relief. They are good for sore nipples. The cooling effect prevents leaks to a great extent.

You can Use both types o nursing pads

You can use both disposable and washable nursing pads and derive their benefits

  • During night time some people have more leaks. So, use disposable types of nursing pads. During day time you can switch over to reusable types, so wash and leave to dry.
  • If you forgot to wash you can keep ample supplies or keep spare sets handy.
  • When leaking is minimal you can use reusable pads.

Using homemade nursing pads can help save lot of money. You can make use of handkerchiefs and other clothing to prepare temporary nursing pads. Thus you may not need a disposable or an extra wash reusable set. These can be used for short term

Reusable nursing pads  are made of fibers and they provide better air circulation. They are easy to wash and keep dry .Most of these pads can be washed along with your baby’s cloth.

By using reusable nursing pads you are saving the environment instead of throwing them in the dust bin you save money as they are more economical .These washable pads are long lasting and they are designed to last for days together.

Posted in: Nursing