Fabrics for Reusable Pads (Cores)

Even though you can't see the core, it's what keeps everything in so you need to find a material that's highly absorbent. There are several options you can choose from, so let's take a look at what those are!

• Fleece

Depending on the level of absorbency you want, you general want to add 2 layers of fabric for every flow level. In other words, if you want to make a light pad, you need 2 layers of flannel and with a medium flow you need 4 layers etc.

You can usually find flannel in many articles of clothing like your P.J's so if you have any old pants, you can upcycle those!

• (Heavy/super heavy) organic bamboo fleece

You can either use charcoal bamboo which comes in a grey color or the natural bamboo fleece which is white.

Both fabrics you can use as a topper and a core because bamboo is a fantastic natural absorbing fiber.

• Hemp fleece

Hemp fleece is an absorbent fabric although it's considered to not be as absorbent as bamboo fleece.

It's also harder to come by and can become pricey.

• Cotton terry

You may not have heard the name, but you've probably felt it the most. Cotton terry is an absorbent material that's usually found in towels. If you have any old towels, you can definitely upcycle it into a core for your pad! Like fleece, you want to add at least 2 layers for each absorbency level.

• Zorb

Zorb tends to be the go-to material for reusable pad makers when it comes to cores. It's light and absorbs quickly. You can find it in different textures such as quilted, dimpled, flat, etc. For an overnight pad, you only need 1-2 layers of Zorb and it should hold up well.

If you want a thin pad, use the dimpled Zorb. The yard it comes in is pretty small though. If you want a thicker pad with more cushion, use the original Zorb which comes in a larger yard.

You have to purchase it online, so the cost of shipping can bump up the price.

• Microfiber

Microfiber is often found in towels that are used for cleaning surfaces. Again, if you have old towels laying around, you can give those a wash and use them as core material since it'll stay hidden.

Microfiber isn't the most odor-resistant, so overtime it could start to smell.

Works Cited

PadThai. "Understanding cloth pad materials." YouTube, 03 May 2016, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otbyhXSPaxE&t=2639s