Are nursing pads worth it? All the nursing mothers we know say yes.
Breast pads are essential during the first few weeks of breastfeeding. Breasts leak even if you’re diligent about pumping regularly and nursing often. They make little wet circles that look embarrassing and feel uncomfortable. Worse, they can cause irritation which is no fun when your nipples are already sore.
Although you can stuff your bra with tissues, trust us, that’s not very comfortable or convenient. Then, there are disposable breast pads which are a step up in comfort but may cause you to feel guilty about the environment. It can actually cost less to use the best reusable nursing pads instead.
How many nursing pads does a mom need? The soft, absorbent circles of cloth will need to be changed every few hours. We recommend a minimum of four breast pads to start, but you’ll probably end up with double that depending on how often you’re able to wash and dry them. (Many moms drop them in a mesh bag and run them through a cycle with the baby’s clothes).
Which are the best reusable breast pads?
Since reusable nursing pads slip into nursing bras or regular bras, the first thing to consider is their size and shape. If you can check measurements, do so, because some of us have bigger nipples and need more coverage.
Meanwhile, check out the fabric. Bamboo viscose is the softest and cotton is a close second. Both are very absorbent. Some nursing pads have an impermeable liner to prevent leakage and others rely on layers without a plastic liner.
Also, review the shape and check to see if there is stitching that might rub against sensitive nipples. Will the pads be too thick to feel comfortable in your bra? Will they leave impressions or show through fabric?
Even though these are reusable nursing pads, some might not be machine-washable or dryable. Review the fine print so that you don’t end up with extra work.
Lastly, there’s color. You may want to match your lingerie and get other colors besides white.
What are the best breast pads for nursing? Check out the reviews below:
| The best reusable nursing pads | Why we love them |
|---|---|
| Lansinoh Reusable Nursing Pads |
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| Bamboobies Women’s Nursing Pads |
|
| Kindred Bravely Organic Washable Breast Pads |
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| Curve by Cache Coeur - 2 Reusable & Washable Nursing Pads |
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| EcoNursingPads Organic Bamboo Breastfeeding Pads |
|
| TL Care Nursing Pads |
|
| Ameda ComfortGel Soothing Breastfeeding Pads |
|
Best Reusable Nursing Pads in 2024
Lansinoh Reusable Nursing Pads
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Which nursing pad brand is best? Some moms recommend Lansinoh which makes both disposable and washable breast pads. We reviewed the reusable pads which come in sets of four in white, pink, and black. The package also includes a mesh bag for washing the pads in the machine.
The egg-shaped pads are contoured to hug the breast. The inner liner is extra soft over the top of an absorbent core with a waterproof layer on the outside. There’s even a little tag to show you which side faces outward (which is handy if you’re sleep-deprived).
We also liked that this brand of nursing pads can be paid for by health savings accounts (FSA/HSA).
Mothers say that the reusable breast pads are softer than disposable ones and they don’t stick to the skin or scratch up nipples. However, women with large nipples may find that the pads aren’t big enough. Also, if you have a lot of leakage, you might need a thicker version for overnight.
Pros:
- Soft and absorbent contoured pads with a leakproof layer
- Available in three colors (white, pink, and black)
- Come with a mesh bag for washing
- FSA/HSA eligible
Cons:
- Might not be big enough for large nipples
- Might not be absorbent enough for wearing overnight
Bamboobies Women’s Nursing Pads
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What about the best reusable nursing pads for large breasts? Bamboobies might be the answer if you have great milk supply but not a lot of leakage. They were designed by a mom who wanted better breast pads.
They come in a variety pack that includes extra-absorbent overnight nursing pads as well as three pairs of thin heart-shaped pads. The thin pads absorb dripping milk without being obvious underneath clothing. Nursing moms say that the texture is super soft and the pads hold up well after repeated washing and drying.
The silky soft layer that touches the skin is a blend of bamboo viscose, cotton, and polyester. The inner layer is a ramie/cotton blend and the outer layer is polyester with TPU to prevent leaks. Change the pads when they are wet and wash them in warm and dry them on medium. (Don’t use fabric softener as it will reduce the pads’ ability to absorb moisture. However, you can use bleach if they are stained).
Pros:
- Designed by a nursing mother
- Four sets of pads included (three for daytime, one for night)
- Silky soft inner layer made of bamboo viscose, cotton, and polyester
- Absorbent ramie/cotton core
- Polyester TPU leakproof outer layer
- Can be machine-washed and dried
Cons:
- Contain a plastic layer for waterproofing
- Won’t perform as well if washed with fabric softener
Kindred Bravely Organic Washable Breast Pads
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These aren’t disposable nursing pads that stick to skin. You’ll need to wear a bra to hold them in place. But the benefits are clear as they are eco-friendly and safe for sensitive skin. The fabric is 100% organic viscose made from bamboo and it’s OEKO-tex-certified for purity and safety.
Not only is bamboo extra soft, but it’s also extra absorbent and feels cool and dry against the skin when damp. We love these breast pads because they are so comfortable for chafed nipples.
No worries about them leaking if you can’t change them right away. The outer layer is waterproofed to prevent moisture from soaking through. The contoured pads measure four and a half inches in diameter to cover most nipple sizes.
Moreover, they can be washed and tumble-dried again and again. The pack includes ten pads or five pairs so you have plenty to get you through the first few weeks of breastfeeding.
Reviewers say they feel silky on one side and kind of like a soft towel on the other. They don’t wrinkle up like some brands do and they come with a little storage pouch.
Pros:
- Made with viscose from organic bamboo
- OEKO-tex-certified fabric for purity and safety
- Very absorbent and soft
- 5” diameter covers most nipples
- Can be machine-washed and tumble-dried
- Multi-pack includes ten breast pads with a storage pouch
Cons:
- Eco-friendly up to a point as they still use plasticized fabric to prevent leaking
Curve by Cache Coeur – 2 Reusable & Washable Nursing Pads
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If you’re not really sure you’ll get along with reusable nursing pads, why not start small. This two-pack is FSA/HSA approved. They are made with pure cotton that’s been OEKO-tex-tested to be free of harmful chemicals. Choose from three different thicknesses including Slim, Day, and Night.
The breast pads are made in France where they are popular with nursing moms. They feature a soft mesh weave that protects against chafing and leaking. In fact, they are designed to last up to six hours before needing a change.
Pros:
- Available in Slim, Day, and Night thicknesses
- Made with pure cotton that’s certified free of harmful substances
- FSA/HSA approved
- Daytime versions can last up to six hours between changes
Cons:
- Two pads might not be enough as you’ll have to constantly wash them
EcoNursingPads Organic Bamboo Breastfeeding Pads
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These nursing pads come in either contoured or rounded flower shapes. Both work equally well. But if you’re wearing an unlined bra, you might like the flower-shaped since they don’t fold up and become noticeable underneath clothing. Also, the contoured pads are best for nighttime use as they are thicker and even more absorbent. In either case, they have a leakproof barrier and can be used with or without nipple creams.
Reviewers say they are breathable, soft, and surprisingly durable. For best results, wash them soon after use so they don’t sit around damp. Also, dry them thoroughly in the dryer (but don’t use fabric softener).
What’s more, they come in a ten-pack so that you have plenty of spares. One of the most popular sets has four different colors and comes with a laundry bag and a cotton storage bag.
Pros:
- Multi-pack with assorted colors, laundry bag, and travel bag
- Breathable and extra soft bamboo with a leakproof lining
- Thicker, contoured pads for nighttime and rounded flower shapes for daytime
- Can be machine-washed and tumble-dried
Cons:
- Remember to avoid using fabric softener (either liquid or dryer sheets) so that the pads retain maximum absorbency
TL Care Nursing Pads
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Take a pass on plastic and get these environmentally-friendly breast pads. They have no leakproof layer whatsoever. Instead, they consist of five layers of organic cotton. This fact makes them more breathable and natural than other options. They are also produced by a brand that belongs to the Organic Trade Association.
Of course, they can be machine-washed and dried. Over time, they will become even more absorbent.
The pads measure four and a half inches in diameter and can be used with nipple cream. Reviewers say it’s rare to have leaks as long as you change them every few hours. Some moms have used the pads for a year or longer and they still look as good as new.
Pros:
- Pure organic cotton with no plastic
- Manufacturer belongs to the Organic Trade Association
- Machine-washable and dryable
- Repeated washing makes them more absorbent
Cons:
- No leakproof barrier
Ameda ComfortGel Soothing Breastfeeding Pads
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These aren’t nursing pads in the traditional sense. They don’t absorb leakage as well as a cotton pad. Instead, they soothe sore nipples and help cracked skin heal. Each set can be worn for up to six days.
The healing gel pads protect against friction on sensitive skin and create a healing environment. They come in sterile packaging and are non-toxic for both mothers and babies.
Reviewers recommend rinsing them with water and keeping them in the fridge, making changes when necessary. Many women prefer this brand of hydrogel breast pads because they say they are soothing and they don’t stick to the nipples.
Pros:
- Soothing hydrogel breast pads to heal cracked and sore nipples
- Non-toxic and safe for babies and mothers
- Sterile packaging
- Can be stored in the fridge
Cons:
- Not absorbent like bamboo or cotton, but still able to prevent leaking
- Must be replaced after six days
Conclusion
Breast pads may not be at the top of your registry list but they are one of the essentials that every nursing mother should have. The best reusable nursing pads protect nipples from irritation and prevent breast milk from leaking through clothing.
We hope our reviews helped you find the right breastfeeding pads for your needs today. If you love them, please leave us a comment. Your experience may help a new mom make a happy decision.