Are breast pads necessary?

Many mums think they are – in fact, they have been described as breastfeeding essentials! Most breastfeeding mums experience some level of leaking breast milk, which may even start when they’re pregnant. It’s usually heaviest soon after your baby’s birth, so during this time you could try ultra-absorbent disposable nursing pads, designed to cope with heavy breast milk leakage – as well as breastfeeding and/or pumping milk regularly.¹ However, after this early stage many mums experience less heavy breast milk leakage and prefer a more environmentally friendly option, which is where Safe & Dry™ Washable bra pads can help.

Washing your reusable breast pads

Medela’s washable bra pads are made from a micro-porous fabric that allows your skin to breathe. Washing the bra pads before using them for the first time will improve their absorbency – just pop them in the machine at 40°C to 60°C, using your usual detergent, but no fabric conditioner. Make sure the bra pads are completely dry before wearing. Then wash them in the same way again after every use.

Absorbent and hygienic

To use your breast pads, simply place the matt side on your lactating breast and hold in place with your bra. Any leaking breast milk will be held in the absorbent core, while the edges of the breast pads are specially sealed to help ensure milk doesn’t escape from there, either. In addition, washable bra pads contain material with antimicrobial properties to help prevent bacteria from growing. However, you should still change them as often as it takes for you to feel comfortable, so make sure you keep a supply of freshly washed pads to hand in a clean, dry place.