A number of options are now available and the choice is a personal one, although economic and environmental factors can play a vital role.

Disposable breast pads are easy to use and convenient, but their continued use is continuously adding unwanted landfill to our already fragile environment. Not only that, disposable breast pads are expensive when you factor in the number you need to use every day you breastfeed if you want to keep your nipples clean and dry. The final consideration is that the disposable variety often contain plastic elements that can irritate already sensitive nipples.

A number of baby product manufacturers have introduced a range of washable breast pads that offer a number of benefits to both mother and baby.

Of course, the main considerations are the economic and environment issues – not only do reusable breast pads end up costing much less for breastfeeding mums during the period they breast feed, but they have very little impact on the environment.

Of course, these factors are little comfort to a lactating mum with cracked, sore nipples from constant leakage. But that’s where washable breast pads come into their own. Most quality washable breast pads are made from soft, organic fabric which is gentle on sensitive nipples.

Other benefits of reusable breast pads include:

• Once they are damp, cloth breast pads can be thrown in with baby’s gentle washing items, so the nipple stays dry and less likely to become infected.
• Most cloth breast pads are contoured to the shape of the breast, so they sit comfortably inside the bra without causing any bulges or unsightly gathering.
• Mothers who want to protect their nipples can apply a small amount of lanolin based cream or pawpaw cream to the inside of the pad without harming the baby or the pad. In fact, certain ranges of washable breast pads have a soothing cream built into the material.
• For new mums on a tight budget, cloth breast pads can easily be sewn together from older, used nappies. The cloth in used nappies is softer and finer after continued use, so they are the perfect solution.

Whether to use cloth breast pads or disposable breast pads is a choice only a breastfeeding mother can make, but it pays to take the time to consider all the options available and then make the choice that’s best for everyone.

6 Good Reasons Why You Should Choose Washable Breast Pads Over Disposables is a post from: New Age Nappies

While breast feeding is one of the most extraordinarily special times a nursing mother can experience, knowing she is providing a total nutrient filled food for her baby, it can also be a troublesome time.

Nipples can become sore and cracked and excess leakage only exacerbates the problem, which can lead to conditions like painful mastitis.

Cloth Breast Feeding Pads or Disposable Breast Feeding Pads?

The choice about whether to use cloth breast feeding pads of the disposable variety is largely up to the mother’s individual needs and choices.

Disposable breast feeding pads are made from similar materials to disposable menstrual pads or disposable nappies and are designed to absorb wetness. Some brands are contoured to suit the shape of the breast and others contain lanolin based solutions to protect sensitive nipples.

In the same way, reusable or cloth breast feeding pads are usually made from organic material which is extra soft against the nipples and some contain lanolin based products.

The advantages of reusable pads over disposable breast pads are numerous:

• Because disposable breast pads are meant to soak up excess wetness, they can be left on for a long period of time. This can cause nipple problems if the pad gets damp as the continual dampness irritates the already sensitive nipple.
• Disposable breast pads often contain plastics to prevent leakage which are not only more irritating, but can lead to yeast infections.
• Disposable breast pads are more harmful to the environment.

The important points to consider when looking at breast feeding pads are:

• Is the pad contoured to fit around your breast and not bunch up?
• Does the pad have any seams that may be irritating?
• Does it contain a soothing lotion base that helps treat sore and inflamed nipples?

The beauty of washable or reusable breast feeding pads is that they are generally made from organic fabric which is gentle against the skin. As well, as soon as the feeding pad is wet, it can be replaced with a new, dry pad which ensures the breast and nipples stay dry.

Washable breast pads can be thrown in the washing machine with baby’s delicate items and washed and dried quickly for immediate reuse. This is a far more economical method than having to continually purchase disposable breast pads.

Many nursing mothers also add a layer of soothing lanolin or pawpaw cream to the inside of the pad for extra nipple protection. These solutions don’t harm the baby in any way.

Regardless of whether you choose cloth breast pads or disposable breast pads, the important thing to remember is to take care of your breasts and nipples during this precious time so you and baby can experience the joys of the breastfeeding process in comfort and with love.

How to Choose the Best Breast Feeding Pads For You is a post from: New Age Nappies