Breastfeeding is a beautiful and rewarding journey, but it can also come with a few challenges. One of the most common issues new mums face, is leaking milk—especially in those early weeks when your supply is still regulating. That’s where breast pads come in.
Breast pads, also known as nursing pads, are designed to absorb leaks, keep your clothes dry, and help you feel confident and comfortable wherever you are. But when it comes to choosing the right kind, you may be wondering: Should I go for reusable or disposable breast pads?
In this post, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both reusable and disposable breast pads in simple, mum-friendly terms. By the end, you’ll be able to make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle, values, and breastfeeding needs.
What Are Breast Pads?
Breast pads are absorbent pads worn inside your bra to catch leaks and prevent milk from soaking through your clothing. They can be a lifesaver during let-downs, overnight feeds, or unexpected leaks during the day.
There are two main types of breast pads:
- Disposable breast pads – single-use, throwaway pads often made with synthetic materials.
- Reusable breast pads – washable pads usually made with soft, absorbent fabrics like cotton or bamboo.
Let’s explore both options in more detail.
The Case for Disposable Breast Pads
1. Convenience
Disposable breast pads are super easy to use. You simply unwrap them, pop them in your bra, and toss them away after use. There’s no washing or drying involved, which can be appealing—especially in the early postpartum days when everything feels a bit overwhelming.
2. Great for On-the-Go
If you’re travelling, spending the day out, or don’t have easy access to a washing machine, disposable breast pads can be a practical choice. They’re hygienically sealed, lightweight, and often come in individually wrapped packs that slip easily into your handbag or nappy bag.
3. Absorbency
Many disposable pads are highly absorbent and contain moisture-wicking layers to help you feel dry. Some also include adhesive strips to keep them in place, which can be helpful if you're moving around a lot during the day.
4. Good for Occasional Use
If you only leak occasionally or are nearing the end of your breastfeeding journey, you might not want to invest in a set of reusables. In this case, disposables can serve as a quick, temporary solution.
Drawbacks of Disposable Breast Pads
While they may seem like a convenient solution, disposable pads come with a few downsides:
- Cost Adds Up: Over time, constantly buying disposable pads can become expensive—especially if you’re leaking heavily or for several months.
- Environmental Waste: Since they’re single-use, disposable pads contribute to landfill waste and aren’t biodegradable. This can be a concern for eco-conscious parents.
- Skin Irritation: Some disposable pads contain synthetic materials or chemicals that may cause discomfort, itching, or sensitivity, especially if you have delicate postpartum skin.
- Less Breathable: Unlike natural fabrics, some disposables trap heat and moisture, which can lead to soreness or even nipple thrush.
The Case for Reusable Breast Pads
Now, let’s take a look at why more and more mums are turning to reusable breast pads:
1. Cost-Effective
Reusable pads are a one-time investment that can save you hundreds of pounds over your breastfeeding journey. A good-quality set can last for months—or even through multiple babies.
2. Eco-Friendly
Reusable pads are washable, reducing waste and your carbon footprint. This is a huge win if you're trying to make sustainable choices for your family and the planet.
3. Gentle on Skin
Most reusable breast pads are made from soft, natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo. These materials are breathable, gentle, and less likely to irritate sensitive nipples.
4. Comfort and Style
Unlike disposable pads that can feel crinkly or bulky, many reusable options offer a contoured design for a better, more discreet fit. You can even find them in fun patterns or subtle colours to match your wardrobe.
5. Reliable Absorbency
High-quality reusable pads are built with multiple layers to keep moisture away from your skin and clothes. And with the right design, they can be just as absorbent (if not more) than disposables.
Drawbacks of Reusable Breast Pads
While reusables have many benefits, it’s important to consider a few things:
- You’ll Need to Wash Them: This may not be ideal if you’re already swamped with laundry. You’ll need a few pairs to rotate between washes.
- Less Convenient When Out: If you leak while you're out and about, you'll need somewhere to store the used pads (a small wet bag works well).
- Fit and Performance Vary: Not all reusable breast pads are made equal. Some may slip around in your bra, show through clothing, or not offer enough absorbency—unless you choose a high-quality brand.
So, Which Is Best for You?
Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
|
Feature |
Disposable Pads |
Reusable Pads |
|
Cost |
Ongoing expense |
One-time investment |
|
Convenience |
Most convenient, no washing |
Requires washing and drying |
|
Skin Sensitivity |
May contain chemicals/synthetics |
Gentle, natural fabrics |
|
Environmental Impact |
High waste, non-biodegradable |
Eco-friendly, reusable |
|
Comfort |
May feel bulky or scratchy |
Soft, contoured, discreet |
|
On-the-Go Use |
Easy to carry and dispose |
Need to carry wet pads home |
|
Absorbency |
Varies; may include adhesive |
High absorbency with the right brand |
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your personal preferences and lifestyle. Some mums even use a mix—disposables for travel and reusables for home. Whatever works for you is the right answer.
Why We Recommend Breast Intentions Reusable Breast Pads
If you’re leaning toward reusable breast pads but worry they might not perform as well as disposables, we have great news: our Breast Intentions Discreet Contoured Reusable Breast Pads were designed to meet the setbacks often associated with other reusable options.
And we’re not just saying that—they recently won Gold in the Made For Mums 2024 Awards in the Breast Pads Category, having been tested and approved by breastfeeding mums and expert judges.
Here’s Why Our Breast Pads Stand Out:
✔️ Award-Winning Quality
Tested by real mums, our breast pads are a trusted solution for comfort and leak protection. The Gold Award confirms they deliver on what they promise.
✔️ Leak-Free Confidence with a 4-Layer System
Our unique four-layer design ensures reliable absorbency while keeping moisture away from your skin. That means no more embarrassing leaks or uncomfortable dampness.
✔️ Safe for You and Baby
We care about your health and your baby’s. That’s why our pads are OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 Certified (Product Class 1)—meaning they’re free from harmful substances and safe even for newborns.
✔️ Contoured and Discreet
No more bulky outlines or shifting pads. Ours are specially contoured to match your natural shape for a secure, flattering fit that sits smoothly under clothes.
✔️ Comfort First
Made from breathable, baby-safe fabrics, they feel soft against your skin—even during those sensitive early weeks.
✔️ Simple, Stylish Colours
Our Black and White Edition offers discreet colour options that blend in easily with your bras, whether light or dark.
✔️ One Size Fits Most
We've removed the guesswork. Our carefully developed one-size pad is designed for a universally great fit with reliable absorbency.
✔️ Designed by a Mum, for Mums
As a small, mum-run business, we understand your needs because we've been there too. Our mission is to make your breastfeeding journey more comfortable, confident, and eco-conscious.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding comes with enough surprises—you shouldn’t have to worry about leaks, discomfort, or constant expenses. Choosing the right breast pads can make a real difference in how confident and relaxed you feel day-to-day.
While disposable pads offer quick and convenient relief, reusable breast pads offer a long-term, eco-friendly, and often more comfortable solution. And with the right design—like our Breast Intentions Discreet Contoured Reusable Breast Pads—you truly can have the best of both worlds.
Whether you’re a first-time mum or a seasoned pro, investing in high-quality reusables can simplify your routine, save you money, and help reduce waste—all while giving you the comfort and leak protection you deserve.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Try our Breast Intentions Discreet Contoured Reusable Breast Pads today and experience award-winning comfort and confidence. Because you deserve a product that works as hard as you do.
Shop now and discover the difference for yourself.