These Organic Pads Are So Comfy, You Won’t Mind Wearing Them To Bed

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If you've made a Target run for menstrual pads lately (or, you know, wherever you buy your pads or tampons), you've probably seen more and more that claim to be organic. And maybe you've wondered: Why the heck do my sanitary napkins need to be green?

Let's make one thing clear: Organic pads, like organic tampons, aren't exactly necessary when it comes to your health. While some women believe organic menstrual products are safer and healthier (i.e. free of harmful pesticides or synthetic materials), none of that has been scientifically studied, says reproductive endocrinologist and clinical assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Houston Methodist Rashmi Kudesia, MD.

Best Organic Pads

Below, Dr. Kudesia explains the other benefits to using organic pads, how to choose the right one for you (especially if you're looking for pads for a heavy flow!), and we also dive into eight product picks that have been vetted and tried by our team of anonymous testers.

What to consider

Materials

For women who are prone to irritation—think external itching, chafing or rashes, and even imbalances of their vaginal flora— ditching synthetic products for organic ones can provide some relief. "In general, the fewer materials or ingredients in a product, the lower the chances they can incite a reaction," says Dr. Kudesia. "It seems possible that women feeling irritation from traditional products might experience relief with organic ones." Plus, organic products are better for the environment.

All the products on this list are made with solely organic cotton, as Dr. Kudesia recommends, and without toxins, so you can rest assured you're buying safe, organic products without all the extra ingredients other, non-organic pads have.

Absorbency and flow

If you have a heavy period, you want to make sure your pad can absorb as much blood as possible, which means you should probs opt for a thicker pad with high absorbency, like the Honey Pot Company Herbal Daytime Heavy Flow Pads, which are designed with an ultra absorbent, thick core to hold a high concentration of blood. Also for the heavy flow folks: nighttime pads, which are longer and more supportive than regular ones to hold up against tossing and turning during sleep. A solid option on this list is the August Organic Night Pad.

On the other hand, if you have a light or medium flow, go for something that's made to handle smaller leaks, like the Lola Ultra-Thin Pads With Wings. These pads still have solid absorption, but they're super thin and lightweight, so they're meant to keep blood off your underwear and pants, but they won't suffice if you have a super heavy flow. However, these lightweight pads are usually the most comfortable to wear, as they're less heavy than the thicker ones.

How we chose

For the past few years, Women’s Health editors, including contributor Sarah Bradley and associate fashion and commerce editor Lily Wohlner tested the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated organic pads. Our team consulted reproductive endocrinologist and clinical assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Houston Methodist Rashmi Kudesia, MD, and then sought the eight best cotton pads for a wide range of needs and preferences.

If you’re thinking of taking the plunge into organic pads, here are eight to choose from (because just like with synthetic pads, not all organic pads are created equal).

Cotton Cover Pads

I know spending $22 for pads isn't always in the cards (it adds up!), but let me tell you—it's worth it for these Cotton Cover Pads from Rael. Not only do they come in a pack of 56, but they are made with local, Texas-grown cotton without the use of toxins, pesticides, or synthetic chemicals. And, they're super comfortable, too. You'll never feel these pads move around, ride up, or crinkle in your panties, and they actually feel super protective and supportive with their pillowy-soft layers. You never have to worry about leakage because they have side panels for flood control and channels to trap fluids, too.

Another pro? These pads offer maximum air flow (thanks, cotton), which helps avoid unwanted irritation and not-so-pleasant odors. So, on those days where you don't have a ton of time or inventory to stop and change your pad, you can rely on these to stay clean, dry, and odor-free, which can often be hard to find in a pad.

Our tester told us that she loves how this regular-sized pad is not too thick and not too thin, so it's perfect if you have a medium flow, or if you have a heavier flow and you're at the tail end of your period. She also adds that this is the softest pad she has ever worn and it has made her very uncomfortable period a little more tolerable. One con she did note, though, was that the adhesive wasn't as strong as some other brands she's tried, so when she pulls her pants down, the pad can move around a bit.

Read More: Best Tampon Brands

In this one we say that the pad doesn't move around, but then the con says it moves around. Can we fix?

Organic Menstrual Night Pads

If you find yourself bleeding on your sheets at night, DW. It happens to the best of us. But that probs means you need a bit more protection during the night. Look no further than August's Organic Night Pads, which are made with pesticide-free, organic cotton that's super absorbent with eight layers of protection. If you have a super heavy flow, opt for the Organic Long Night Pads, which go a bit further back in your undies for fuller protection.

These pads also feature two-way venting to keep you cool while you snooze (if you're a hot sleeper, this is for you!). It also absorbs excess moisture so you don't have to worry about leakage.

And, you can feel good about purchasing from the brand, as they donate products to undeserved communities in partnership with grassroots nonprofit.

Our tester loves that this box comes with 32 pads, which is super rare to find for under $20. But, similar to the Rael pads, she wishes the adhesive on these pads was stickier so she doesn't have to worry about it moving while she's tossing and turning during her sleep.

The Made-to-Move Pad

If you're always moving or on the go, these newly-launched pads from Cora are for you. They feature elevated sides that contour to your movements, and protect against leaks and bunching during more strenuous activities. And, they keep you chafe-free and totes dry. In fact, it absorbs 14 times its weight in blood.

Our tester says this pad keeps you so dry, you literally forget you have anything on. That's why it's so great for movement—you never feel it rubbing up against you or flipping over when your legs rub together. Our tester also appreciates the fact that these pads are hypoallergenic, dermatologically-tested, and made without any harsh chemicals.

The one downside to these pads is that they're pretty pricey for just a pack of 28. However, it's super hard to find high-quality organic cotton pads that don't move during exercise, so we deem them worth the spend.

Ultra-Thin Pads With Wings

You need to order these organic pads directly from Lola's website, but there are some major perks to that: You can sign up for a monthly subscription to have your preferred products automatically shipped to you, and that subscription option is super customizable. You can choose how many day or night pads you want in each box, then decide when to receive it (anywhere from four to eight weeks apart).

All of Lola's products are made with 100 percent organic cotton made without fragrances, dyes, and chlorine bleach, so you can rest assured its products are non-toxic. These pads in particular have the added bonus of a highly-absorbent core for leak protection, an hourglass shape for optimal fit, wings that are made to stay in place and never budge, and a moisture-wicking top sheet to keep you clean and dry. Plus, they're suitable for underwear sizes ranging from XS to 5X.

Because these pads are ultra thin, they should be worn on your lighter period days as they can't withstand a super heavy flow. However, testers say they still have solid absorption, so if you go a little heavier than usual one day or you're out of your thicker pads, these will suffice. You just might have to change them more frequently. One note our tester has is she wishes these had a bit more coverage and that they had longer versions that cover the entire gusset of her panties.

Thong Style Panty Liners

One of the most affordable options on this list, Natracare Thong Style Panty Liners are an absolute essential if you're a thong-wearer. Not only do they stay in place (this is hard to find with a thong-friendly pad!), but they're also plastic-free and perfume-free. Plus, they're biodegradable and suitable for sensitive skin.

Our favorite part about these thong pads is that they're super soft and breathable, as they're made out of nothing besides pure organic cotton. Our tester, who has a heavier flow, says these pads help her feel a little dryer and cleaner. She adds that these have been a game changer, especially because she hasn't found a brand that offers good cotton thongs that don't leak or move around.

One con our tester notes? These aren't individually wrapped, so they're not as easy to throw in your purse when you'e out and about. But, when you're home and wearing a thong, they come in handy when you don't need something super heavy.

Organic Cotton & Chlorine-Free Pads

In the world of organic pads, L. takes everything one step further. Their pads aren’t just made with organic cotton; they’re also free of chlorine, dyes, and pesticides. And for anyone interested in supporting a company that thinks beyond its own revenue stream, L. has a lot to offer. They champion sustainable initiatives for distributing period products to women in need, as well as programs that empower women to learn new skills that generate income.

And when it comes to the pad's effectiveness, they don't slack. These pads have deep channels for absorption, meaning there are multiple layers of protection. And on top of all the layers is a cotton breathable top layer, which keeps things airy down there and is super gentle on the skin.

Our tester, who suffers from PCOS and endometriosis, has very heavy bleeding. But, L. pads are the only ones that work for her. She tells us that they absorb like no other pad and they're also super breathable, so she doesn't have to worry about yeast infections. She adds that she tried a generic brand and immediately had to run back out to get L. because they're just that good. She uses these towards the end of her period and opts for the Super Pads at the beginning as these are not suitable for a super heavy flow.

Herbal Daytime Heavy Flow Pads

If you want a pad suitable for a super heavy flow but don't want to wear a nighttime pad around, opt for these daytime-friendly ones from The Honey Pot Company. Even on the heaviest of days, these cult-favorite pads have your back with their super high absorbency, protecting you throughout your cycle.

These pads are infused with herbs (say what?!), like lavender, rose, and mint, which provide a cooling sensation to help you feel fresher down there. And, the certified organic wings and absorbent wood pulp core sure help. Note: If you're sensitive, opt for the brand's non-herbal pads.

Unlike the thinner options on this list, these pads are super thick and are specifically designed to offer maximum coverage and security during the day and night.

Our tester notes that the cooling sensation these pads offer is a welcome switch up from her other pads. Plus, it goes away after a few minutes so it's not an annoyance all day. However, she did note that she could see how this sensation would be irritating for those with sensitive skin.

Read More: Honey Pot Pads Review

The High Waisted Period Panty

Period panties, especially when they're made from cotton and zero toxic chemicals, are kinda the supreme period product because they're reusable and not as irritating as a pad. This pair in particular from The Period Company is built for heavier days, especially since its top layer is moisture-wicking, so it absorbs liquids super fast before it can accumulate. If you want the deets, it absorbs 10 tablespoons, or eight to 10 tampons worth of blood.

Our tester notes that you can def feel the padding in these, but it makes her feel a bit more secure on those super heavy days where you need extra support. She did note however, that they run a little large, so if you want them to fit more snugly, purchase a size down.

When you're done using these, simply throw them in the wash (no bleach needed) and they're safe for the dryer, too. Our tester tells us that she hates not having these on hand, so she'll throw them in the wash the second they're dirty and throw them right back on when they're clean.

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