A Guide to Breast Pads - Disposable, Reusable, Hydrogel and Milk Saver
There are a number of different types of breast pads, and it can be confusing if you’re a first time mum. So let’s have a look at some of them.
- Disposable
- Reusable
- Hydrogel
- Milk saver breast pads
Image: The Brand hannah AU
Disposable Breast Pads
When you’re looking for breast pads, disposable ones should be your last choice option. We can no longer get organic, fully biodegradable ones to stock at Hello Charlie, they’re just not available in Australia. And when there are other options available, why use plastic based, single use products?
Having used plenty of nursing pads ourselves (we’re all mums here!) it’s our view that a washable breast pad is much softer and more comfortable on the breast anyway. And they’re so simple to use that there really is no reason not to go reusable.
Reusable Breast Pads
There are lots of options when you’re looking for a reusable breast pad set! These include bamboo, cotton, and “minky” fabrics.
Of all the different kinds of washable breast pads, bamboo is one of the most popular choices. The fabric is soft and gentle against your breasts, and is very absorbent. The problem with bamboo reusable breast pads is that the process of turning bamboo into fabric can be not-so-eco. The process involves using toxic ingredients, which can negate the good points about bamboo being fast growing and naturally antibacterial. Look for bamboo processed in a closed loop environment, or certified organic bamboo instead.
Hello Charlie stocks a couple of reusable bamboo breast pads:
Another popular choice is “ minky” fabric. It feels velvety and soft, and wicks moisture away, but unfortunately these fabrics are actually made of plastic. The issue then becomes microfibres that enter our waterways and ultimately, our bodies. This is why you need to look for natural breast pads made of natural fibres.
Organic cotton breast pads are a sustainable choice. The natural fibres are gentle on sore breasts, they’re naturally absorbent and the organic cotton is an eco friendly choice. They’re very easy to wash and wear, too.
We stock a number of different brands:
Baby Beehinds washable nursing pads
Hannahpad organic breast pads
Nature’s Child Breast Pads - these come in three different options: Light & Discreet; Regular; and Night breast pads.
Image: Pea Pods
Hydrogel Breast Discs
Hydrogel breast pads are made with a non toxic gel that can be heated or cooled, depending on your needs. Use them as heated breast pads for breastfeeding assistance, or as cooling pads for breastfeeding help when you’re suffering breast engorgement.
At Hello Charlie, we stock the wonderful BodyIce breast pads. We love female founded Australian companies, and we love the products, too. These gel breast pads fit inside your bra, and come with a cotton sleeve that rests against your skin. When you’re done with breastfeeding, you can use them as a heat or cold pack anywhere on your body. Handy!
Image: BodyICE
Milk Saver Breast Pads
These aren’t really breastfeeding pads as such. They’re more like a shell, which collects letdown from the breast you aren’t feeding with. It’s an effortless way to save breast milk that would otherwise be lost.
We like the Haakaa Ladybug Silicone Milk Collector. You just pop it into your bra and attach it to your breast. Then just pop the breastmilk into a storage container when you’re done – easy.
Image: Haakaa
Buy breast pads
When you're ready to buy or browse our selection of breast pads, have a look at our range of eco friendly breastfeeding products here at Hello Charlie.
This article should give you some guidance on working out which breast pads are best for you. If you've still got questions, please get in touch with us!