DIY Reusable Menstrual Pads Gain Popularity Amid Rising Costs
DIY Reusable Menstrual Pads Gain Popularity Amid Rising Costs...
A growing number of Americans are turning to homemade reusable menstrual pads as inflation drives up the cost of disposable feminine hygiene products. Searches for DIY pad tutorials surged 40% this month, according to Google Trends data, reflecting broader concerns about affordability and sustainability.
Disposable pads and tampons now cost an average of $7 per pack, up 12% from last year. For those who menstruate, annual expenses can exceed $100—a significant burden for low-income households. Reusable fabric pads, which last 3–5 years, offer a one-time investment of $20–$50 in materials.
"I switched to cloth pads during the pandemic when money was tight," said Minneapolis resident Alicia Torres, 28. "Now I save about $80 yearly and prefer how they feel." Torres shares sewing patterns in a 15,000-member Facebook group called "DIY Cloth Pads USA."
Health experts note reusable pads must be washed thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth. The CDC recommends hot water and mild detergent, with optional vinegar rinses to neutralize odors. Common materials include organic cotton flannel, bamboo fleece, and waterproof PUL fabric for leak-proof backing.
Environmental concerns also drive the trend. The average menstruator discards 250–300 pounds of disposable products in their lifetime. California recently became the first state to mandate free menstrual products in public schools, but federal legislation remains stalled.
Major retailers are taking notice. Joann Fabrics reported a 22% increase in sales of pad-making supplies this quarter. "We're adding more beginner-friendly kits with pre-cut fabrics," said spokesperson Rachel Kim. Meanwhile, Etsy sellers offering handmade pads saw a 35% sales jump since January.
Critics argue reusable pads require more labor and may not suit heavy flows. However, advocates emphasize long-term savings and customization options. "You can adjust thickness or wing length for comfort," said DIY educator Maria Chen, whose YouTube tutorial garnered 500,000 views this month. "It’s about taking control of your body and budget."
The trend aligns with broader shifts toward sustainable period care, including menstrual cups and period underwear. A 2025 Thinx survey found 1 in 4 U.S. menstruators now use at least one reusable product, up from 1 in 10 in 2020.
