Let's be honest: drugstore shelves are full of pads. Easy, cheap, and you grab them on the way. But what if we told you those innocent-looking packs contain things you'd rather not have near your most intimate parts? And that there's a better, healthier and more sustainable alternative? Read on and find out why you might want to say goodbye to drugstore pads for good.
Every month millions of women use disposable pads from drugstores and supermarkets such as Etos, Kruidvat or Albert Heijn. But what's really in those white packs? And why are more and more women choosing washable pads instead? In this article we compare drugstore pads with washable pads on health, comfort, cost and environmental impact — so you can make an informed choice.
The hidden truth behind drugstore pads
Most disposable pads from the drugstore or supermarket are made of a mix of materials that aren't always kind to your body or the environment. Think of:
- Synthetic materials: often plastic, which doesn't breathe and creates a warm, damp environment. This can lead to irritation, itching and even a higher risk of infections.
- Chemicals and perfume: to mask odours and make pads look whiter, fragrances and other chemicals are often added. These can cause allergic reactions and disturb the natural pH balance of your vagina.
- Bleaching agents: many pads are bleached, which can leave trace residues behind.
"I always thought every woman experienced this, but that turned out not to be the case." – Amy, on irritation from regular pads
This cocktail of materials and chemicals can lead to discomfort and skin irritation — something that matters even more with conditions such as Lichen Sclerosus, where sensitive skin needs extra care.
What's really in your disposable pad?
If you read the materials list of an average disposable pad, you might be surprised. The top layer is usually made of polyethylene or polypropylene — plastics that don't break down. The absorbent core contains superabsorbent polymers (SAP) that turn moisture into a gel.
In addition, many disposable pads contain:
• Fragrances and perfumes — to mask menstrual odour, but they can irritate sensitive skin
• Bleaching agents — for a "whiter" look
• Adhesives and plastics — in the wings and backing, which aren't biodegradable
• Artificial gels — SAPs that absorb moisture
The alternative? Cotton washable pads from LottePads contain none of these substances. The side that touches your skin is soft cotton.
The environmental impact: a mountain of waste
Besides health, there's the huge environmental impact. A woman uses an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 disposable menstrual products in her lifetime. Imagine all that plastic ending up in landfill or, worse, in our oceans. It takes hundreds of years for a disposable pad to break down. That's not a sustainable solution for something that happens every month.
By comparison: a set of LottePads washable pads lasts for years. You produce almost no waste, save resources and reduce your footprint. And our products are handmade in the Netherlands — good for you and the planet.
Recommended
Medium Trial Pack
Find out whether washable pads suit you. You get 4 medium pads in surprise prints, a storage pouch and a pad strap.
€87.50
The LottePads difference: comfort, health and sustainability
At LottePads we believe your period can be comfortable, healthy and sustainable. That's why we make high-quality washable pads, with care for you and the planet. Here's why you'd choose LottePads over drugstore pads:
- Cotton against your skin: the top layer of our pads is soft, breathable cotton. No plastic layer, no chemicals, no perfume. This reduces the chance of irritation and lets your skin breathe.
- Soft and comfortable: soft fabrics that shape to your body. No scratchy edges, no sweaty feeling. Just comfort, all day long.
- Kind to your body: without added chemicals or bleach, LottePads respects the natural balance of your vagina. This is especially important for women with sensitive skin or conditions such as Lichen Sclerosus.
- Sustainable and cost-saving: washable pads are an investment that pays for itself. You save money in the long run and contribute to a cleaner planet by producing less waste.
- Different sizes and absorbencies: whether you have a light flow or a heavy period, LottePads has a washable pad that suits you. From panty liners to night pads, we have a solution for every need.
🌿 Want to try first?
Still unsure? Start with a washable pad trial pack and experience the difference yourself. 30-day returns, risk-free.
Washable vs. disposable: an honest comparison
| Feature | Drugstore disposable | LottePads washable |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Plastic, SAP, bleached pulp | Cotton top layer |
| Added chemicals | Perfume, adhesive | None |
| Breathable | No — plastic layer | Yes |
| Cost per year | €60-€120 | €0 after purchase |
| Waste per year | Several kilos | Almost none |
| Lifespan | Single use | 2-5 years |
| Skin-friendly | Often irritating | Very skin-friendly |
| Made in | Factory | Handmade in the Netherlands |
Conclusion: your body and the planet will thank you
It's time to look critically at what you use on your body. Choosing LottePads washable pads is a choice for comfort, health and sustainability. A small change with a big impact. Ready to switch and experience the difference yourself?
Browse our washable pad collection and find your perfect match. New to washable pads? Start with one of our trial packs to find out which size and absorbency suit you best.
Questions? Check our frequently asked questions or get in touch — we're happy to help you towards a healthier, more sustainable period!
🌱 Ready to switch?
Try our trial pack risk-free. Not happy? Money back within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions about drugstore pads
Why can drugstore pads be bad for you?
Drugstore pads often contain plastic, perfume, bleached pulp and superabsorbent polymers (SAP). These can cause irritation, itching and allergic reactions in sensitive skin, and the plastic layer creates a warm, damp climate.
What is the healthiest pad?
Washable pads with a cotton top layer are a healthy choice. They contain no added chemicals, plastic layer or perfume, let your skin breathe and respect the natural pH balance of your vagina.
Are washable pads really better for the environment?
Yes, washable pads are far more sustainable than disposables. A woman uses an estimated 10,000-12,000 disposable products in her lifetime. With washable pads you save kilos of waste per year and the product lasts for years.
Can I be allergic to regular pads?
Yes, some women are allergic or sensitive to the fragrances, adhesives or synthetic materials in disposable pads. Symptoms include itching, redness, rashes and a burning feeling. Switching to washable pads without added chemicals often helps.
How much do washable pads cost compared to disposables?
A set of washable pads is a one-off cost, but lasts 2-5 years. Disposable pads cost around €5-€10 a month, or €60-€120 a year. Over time, washable works out cheaper.
Where can I buy washable pads?
You can buy washable pads online from LottePads. We make everything by hand in the Netherlands. View our collection or start with a trial pack.
🧺 New to washable? Read our complete washing instructions to keep your products looking good for years!
