FAQ
Frequently asked questions
WHAT MATERIALS DO YOU USE?
The fleece we use described below, also used for the backing.
HOW/WHY DO YOU CHOOSE THESE MATERIALS?
DO YOU USE PUL?
No! When we started out, it didn’t make sense to have a reusable ‘eco friendly’ product with a layer of plastic in. That’s why we made our own! Instead of having a layer of PUL in (these types of pads usually have 2 layers of towel with a PUL leakproof layer), we use organic cotton absorbent fabric which is made especially for cloth nappies/period pads. Using the super absorbent fabric we do means no nasty plastic layers, AND a more breathable pad which is biodegradable in years to come.
It will take an adjustment using any different period product. You will need to get to know and learn how to manage your period all over again….once you do - we guarantee you will feel empowered and amazing!!
HOW DO I WEAR THEM?
It is best to wear underwear that is a bit snug to help the pad stay in place. Simply fold the wings round your underwear and fasten with the popper. They are made to wear coloured side next to your skin. However, the pads can be worn both ways, so if you prefer the feel of the bamboo and organic cotton fleece on the back - go for it! This side will be great for anyone with super sensitive skin.
HOW CAN I TELL WHICH PADS ARE WHICH ABSORBENCY?
9” pads: Light = no line, Moderate = 1 line, Heavy = 2 lines
12” pads - Moderate = 1 line, Heavy = 2 lines
WHICH PADS ARE BEST FOR ME?
WHICH PADS ARE BEST TO USE WITH A MENSTRUAL CUP?
We love the 7" liners for this! They are great for that extra protection on heavy days in case of leaks. They are also work well for the beginning and end of your period when you don't necessarily need to use a cup. Some of our customers choose a few 7" and a few light 9" (for night time) pads for this kind of use. Liners are also great for everyday use.
WHAT ABOUT WHEN I’M OUT AND ABOUT?
Great question! It is a big change using reusables…we recommend getting a small wash bag that you can pop any used pads in until you get home. If possible, give your pad a rinse straight away to reduce staining. We are working on making some eco friendly, plastic free wash bags - watch this space!
WHAT ABOUT WHEN I WEAR LEGGINGS? HOW THICK ARE THE PADS?
Yep…we’ve had this question a few times so we thought it is worth mentioning - pads can’t be seen through leggings! We recommend wearing the pads with a good fitting pair of pants to ensure the pads stay in place and feel comfy.
HOW LONG WILL THE PADS LAST FOR?
Just like clothes…the better cared for the longer they will last. We've been using our pads for around 4 years and they show no signs of nearing their end of life! We'd expect them to last at least another 4, if not more.
HOW DO I WASH MY PADS?
It is important to take good care of your pads. The more care taken, the even longer they'll last!
-
Rinse/soak your pads with cold water (to prevent staining) as soon as you can after use. -
Either wash in a normal machine cycle or hand wash. If machine washing, this can be done max 40 degrees with no fabric conditioner. This can effect the absorbency of the pads. -
If hand washing, we recommend using a natural, non conditioning soap. Do not wring the pads out, instead you can fold and squeeze any excess water out once washed. The natural stainremover bar is great for handwashing pads and great for facial rounds. -
Once washed, you can very gently pull the pads back into shape for drying. -
Air dry, do not dry directly on a radiator as this can stiffen the fabric. If this happens, simply hand wash and re dry. -
Ensure pads are totally dry before storing for next use.
BUT…ARE REUSABLE PADS HYGIENIC?
We've been asked this question a lot - especially when doing market stalls and meeting people who wouldn't have otherwise bought themselves to our website by choice!
IS IT OK TO PUT PERIOD PADS IN THE WASHING MACHINE WITH OTHER ITEMS/CLOTHES?
Certainly is! You can use a delicate bag to group them together. Pads can go in the wash with everything else. We do recommend rinsing/soaking first to get the majority of blood out.
Ladies….remember those days where your period starts and your not prepared?! You bleed in your knickers and chuck them in the wash….so whats the difference?
Guys….if your reading, if you fell over, cut your knee and bled in your jeans, would you throw them away? Nope…. like we said, your period really is just a bit of blood from a natural bodily function. Nothing dirty to see here!
WASHING/CARE TOP TIPS:
- Rinse soak ASAP. Then hand or machine wash. NO fabric conditioner!
-
Wash on 30 or 40 degree heat max. -
After washing, very gently pull pads back into shape while damp. -
DO NOT wring the pads at any point of washing! -
Pads can be popped together in a row for hanging to dry. Don't dry on a radiator! -
Please allow the pads to FULLY dry before storing.
WHO MAKES THEM?
Liners, pads and face rounds are all made mainly by Zohreh in Bristol, who started oFlo after not being able to find any truly plastic free menstrual pads on the market. The design is unique in that the pads feature one longer wing - this came through trial and error and wanting to minimise bulk when wearing.