Lets Talk Cloth Menstrual Pads:
*How do I use my Gush! cloth menstrual pad?
They are almost identical to using disposable pads with wings. Rather than sticking to your panties they fasten closed with a metal snap.
*How often do I change my Gush! cloth menstrual pad?
Gush! cloth menstrual pads are more absorbent than disposable pads, so you will be able to go longer with out having to change the pad. Average is about 1 every 4-5 hours, but that varies in your flow. Like with disposable pads you will quickly learn upon using them when it's time to change your Gush! pad
*I find that I change my pad every time I use the restroom.
How absorbent are Gush! cloth menstrual pads?
With a disposable pad you have a layer of cotton that is surrounded by porous plastic. While there are holes in the plastic, as I am sure you have found this often time limits the pads ability to absorb.
A regular day Gush! cloth menstrual pad consists of 2 layers of flannel, two layers of cotton terry cloth, and a waterproof barrier at the bottom of the pad. The waterproof barrier is at the bottom of the pad, making 90% of the pad able to absorb leaks. Terry cloth is also much more absorbent than the treated cotton you find in a disposable pad.
Because of all of these factors I find that Gush! cloth menstrual pads are about 35% more absorbent than the disposable pads.
*What do I do with them when I need to replace them and I am not at home?
Excellent question. :)
Gush! cloth menstrual pads are designed to be able to fold and snap closed, like so:
Because all of the moisture is on the inside of the pad and the back of the pad- the part of the pad with the waterproof lining- is facing out, this does wonders in preventing leaks.
The easiest thing to do is fold them up and place them in a waterproof bag. Many women use zip lock bags. If you are looking for something more eco-friendly and discreet we sell waterproof carriers for your Gush! cloth menstrual pads here:http://tinyurl.com/otfacu.
*How do I wash my Gush! cloth menstrual pads?
Find a container you can soak your pads in (a plastic pail is just fine). Depending on your situation at home (if you have curious children or pets), you may want a container with a well fitting lid.
Rinse used pads in the sink under cold water. Wring out several times during rinsing to remove as much excess as possible. After that, simply toss into soaking pot filled with cold water. Change water in soaking pot every day until your regular wash day. You may pretreat with any stain remover, though bleaching is not recommended. Wash with your regular laundry in cold water, using any detergent you like. If stains still remain, try using Oxy-Boost destainer. For removing stains (after being prewashed in cold water), soak pads in a solution of 2oz of Oxy-Boost per gallon of *HOT* water for at least thirty minutes. An overnight soaking is best. Wash as usual. Hang to dry or dry on low heat. When you are done drying you can iron them at a low temperature to smooth out any wrinkles.
*How much money will I actually save by switching to Gush! cloth menstrual pads?
If you spend just $8.00 monthly on your disposable menstrual products (likely you spend more) you are spending $96.00 yearly. Every 3 years you are spending $288. 3 sets of Gush! pads will cost you $90, saving you $198. If you care for your pads they will last even longer, saving you more!
*I found a set that I like, is there a way to custom make them for my flow?
Because Gush! cloth menstrual pads are handmade almost each set can be made for your specific flow type. If you have a very heavy flow a set of maxi pads can be made, if you have a fairly heavy flow a set of heavy day pads can be made, if you have a light flow a set of light pads can be made. Whatever your flow, email or message me and I your Gush! set can be made so that its perfect for your natural flow.
*Are Gush! cloth menstrual pads comfortable?
Gush! pads are incredibly soft on your skin, making you more comfortable during your period. They are made with soft flannel and 100% cotton terry cloth, making them soft, warm and breathable- unlike disposable pads. They are also chemical and fragrance free, making them much less likely to cause irritation or infection than regular disposable pads. Most women are surprised at how well they take to cloth pads. They fit snugly and you won’t have to deal with the feminine hygiene isle any longer.
*Will my Gush! menstrual pads leak?
Gush! Menstrual pads are made with more absorbant materials than disposable pads and feature a waterproof barrier that greatly reduces leaks. As with any other menstrual product, you need to change your pad periodically to keep them from soaking though, but thanks to the waterproof layer and added absorbancy you will find that Gush! pads leak less often than widely manufactured alternative.
*Is there an odor problem with Gush! cloth menstrual pads?
Because these pads are so much more absorbant than disposable pads you will find that you have less of an ordor probelm. If you change your pads often enough, odor should not be a problem.
Our leak proof carrier bag is very effective at transporting used pads while locking away any odor.
*How long will they last?
At the very least they will last you 3 years, but depending on how well they are cared for they can last up to 7. Instructions for care will be included in your shipment to ensure a long and happy life for your Gush! pads.
Are they sanitary?
Yes. Like you panties, Gush pads are worn outside of your body. Menstruation is a natural, harmless substance that is in no way harmful or unsanitary.
What makes Gush! different?
*Gush pads are made with 100% cotton terrycloth , making them more absorbent than disposable pads and pads made with flannel alone.
*Gush pads also feature a waterproof layer, helping to greatly reduce leaks.
*All of the fabrics used in making Gush! pads are pre-washed before being cut and sewn so that shrinkage in the first wash will not occur.
*Gush! day pads are designed to fold and snap closed, making them very convienient to carry with you during the day.
So go ahead- Gush!
With the invent of disposable menstrual products we have come to associate menstruation with filth. Menstruation is a symbol and reminder of women's ability to create life and should not be treated as trash. By washing your menstrual pads rather than throwing them away you are not only doing something good for the environment but you are honoring yourself, your body, and you are celebrating that you are a woman.
