 WE ASKED WOMEN WHAT THEY WANTED MOST IN A WASHABLE PAD, THEN WE MADE THAT PAD. MANY MOONS PADS ARE: - Dependable - Many Moons are made of extra absorbent flannel cotton with wrap around wings for added side protection. Plus, most of our pads come with a leak-proof nylon lining.
- Comfortable - Many Moons are designed to be as thin as possible - you'll hardly even know they are there!
- Versatile - each pad comes with 2 insertable liners. The pads can be used without liners or with one or two liners to adjust to your flow.
- Easy to Use - our pocket and liner system is easy to use and care for.
OK, Many Moons are not the only washable pad on the market - there are several good pads out there. So how to choose? In our 20 years of making pads we have tried several designs and here is what we think makes a good functional pad. So no matter what pads you buy, consider these key features:
1) Absorbency - the pad needs to be made of an absorbent material - 100% cotton is best, synthetic materials like polyester does not hold moisture as well. Several layers also holds the moisture better than one thick layer as it provides more surface area. Some pads have nylon in them as well to increase the amount of moisture a pad can hold. Pads without nylon still work well, you just may have to change them more often. We sell our Wild and Pastel colored pads with a nylon liner but have an option of not having nylon in our organic pads. Make sure the nylon is of good quality or it will lose water resistance after a few washings. Cotton pads also increase in absorbency for the first few washings as the cotton fibers are "teased" open.
2) Washability - We have always used a two part pad system as it seems to allow for better washability. The two part system provides you with several layers when you wear the pad but allows you to take the pad apart to wash. This results in fewer layers that the soap and water have to get through to clean and in our experience results in more thorough washing and quicker drying. No matter what pad you buy always soak them in cold water before washing to stop staining.
3) Comfort - Thinner is better, but too thin reduces absorbency. The key is to make sure you can adjust the pad thickness by adding or subtracting liners. As well, check out how the edge of the pad is sewn - extra ribbing or piping can make uncomfortable ridges in the pad, especially if you're sitting down a lot. Check how the pad fastens on your underwear, we tried the hook and loop fastener years ago but stopped using it because it chaffed - stick with metal or plastic snaps - both are good.
4) Service - Finally consider who you are buying from. There are several companies that specialize in washable pads, they are more likely going to be able to offer you good service if you have any questions. Also, see if the company has a return policy - most washable pad suppliers that have been around for a while let you return the pads for a refund if they are not working for you. Check that the company does not have a return fee - there are a few that do not refund the full purchase price on returned pads. Also check how long you can try the pads before you need to return them - 2 to 3 months is a good length of time. (P.S. We offer a guarantee for 3 months on all unused pads- return the pads for a full refund less the original shipping cost). The pads should also come with a warranty against any problems in materials or manufacturing. A good pad should come with a least a 1 year warranty. (We offer a 2 year warranty against defects in the pads or fabric - it is rare for a well made pad to come apart)
Happy Shopping! SO COMFORTABLE
Many Moons are made of brushed flannel cotton for exceptional comfort and absorbency. They feel SO soft, let air circulate and conform to the shape of your body. Say goodbye to clammy, sticky disposables.
NO LEAKS!
A nylon lining is sewn inside the pad opening to prevent leaks. All pastel and wild colored pads include the nylon lining; the organic pads do not have the nylon (you can get the organic with nylon as a special order - same price).
HOW OFTEN TO CHANGE PADS?
You will find Many Moons pads to be MORE absorbent than disposables. Start by changing pads as frequently as you would change disposables, and soon you will know how long you can go between changes.
EASY TO WASH
Remove the liners from the pad. Pre-soak all pieces in cold water - this discourages staining. Machine wash and dry.
HOW MANY PADS DO YOU NEED?
This really depends on your cycle. We recommend 6 - 8 pads for a light flow; 8 - 12 pads for a moderate flow; and 12 - 16 pads for a heavy flow. Many Moons pads last about 5 years. Why Use Washable Pads? EARTH FRIENDLY
In North America, we throw away over 20 billion disposable menstrual pads and tampons annually - a considerably larger volume than babies' disposable diapers! The production of disposable menstrual pads and tampons releases dioxins and other toxic chemicals into our rivers, lakes and oceans.
Whether you use Many Moons washable menstrual pads all the time, while at home or only at night, it will make a difference to the amount of garbage and toxins going into our environment. BODY FRIENDLY
Many Moons are safer for you and the environment. Most women are unaware of the variety of chemicals (including dioxins) we are putting next to and into our bodies with the use of disposable menstruation products. Research has linked these chemicals to birth defects, reproductive disorders, infertility, depressed immunity, and cancer. As well, toxic shock syndrome continues to cause serious illness and death, and is primarily a result of tampon use.
By choosing to use washable cloth menstrual pads, women can substantially reduce their exposure to these harmful toxins. " ...they are very soft and non-irritating and the cotton feels nice against my skin. Many Moons are super absorbent, much better than the disposable kind." - Patty
FOR WOMEN
In just 40 years, the marketers of disposable menstruation products have convinced women in North America that chlorine bleached disposable pads and tampons are the only option. They are wrong! Most women outside of North America and Europe continue to use cloth menstrual pads - just as our grandmothers did. Switching to Many Moons encourages a healthier attitude about our bodies and menstruation. 
How Do They Work?
EASY TO USE
Each Many Moons pad has an outer pocket and comes with 2 insertable liners (several layers of flannel cotton sewn together). Just slip in 1 or 2 liners and place opening side of pad towards underwear. The wings wrap around undies and snap together - EASY! The flannel back and snaps keep the pads securely in place.
SO VERSATILE
You can use the outer pocket alone for a pantyliner and light days, use 1 liner for moderate days, or use 2 liners for heavier days (extra liners are also available for added protection - see our accessories page).
Figures 1 to 3 - Shows inserting a liner into the washable pad through the pad opening. The opening runs the length of the pad. The nylon layer is sewn into the pad on the opening side. | 
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Once the liner is fully inserted snap the pad around the crotch of your underwear. The opening side is worn away from your body - so that the nylon layer is "away " from your body and the absorbent flannel is next to you. |
Overview - Pad Sizes, Colors and Sets.
Many Moons come in: | 4 Sizes: | 3 Fabric Choices: | Sold in: | - Youth
- Mini
- Regular/Maxi
- Goodnight
| - Wild Colors
- Pastel Colors
- Organic
| - Single Pad Set
- 3 Pad Sets
- 6 Pad Sets
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Each pad comes with 2 liners so you can choose the absorbency you need. Just choose the length of pad that is right for you.
| Many Moons Pad Sizes | YOUTH PAD - 7 1/2" in length (includes 2 liners) - Light-Moderate-Heavy Protection. - Designed for petite women and girls new to their cycle.
- Without liners, these make great pantyliners too!
- Use 1, 2 or more liners to adjust to your flow.
- Many women use these with thong underwear
|  | MINI - 9" in length (includes 2 liners) - Light-Moderate-Heavy Protection. - A good choice for those that prefer a shorter pad.
- Also good for smaller women.
- Without liners, these make great pantyliners too!
- Use 1, 2 or more liners to adjust to your flow.
| | REGULAR/MAXI - 11" in length (includes 2 liners) - Light-Moderate-Heavy Protection. - This is a popular all around pad. The additional length of this pad provides added absorbency.
- Use 1, 2 or more liners to adjust to your flow.
| GOODNIGHT PAD - 13" in length (includes 2 liners) - Moderate-Extra Heavy Protection. - An extra-long, extra absorbent pad.
- This is the best pad for nighttime use, and a really comfy pad in the daytime for those with heavy flows.
- The ends of these pads flare out slightly at the front and back giving you added protection.
- Use 1, 2 or more liners to adjust to your flow.
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" ......the Goodnight Pad is perfect for nighttime and heavy flow days. Their thin design and wider ends means I can sit and move around in complete comfort knowing I am well protected." - Katherine
Other Uses
Postpartum - Many Moons are great for postpartum care, because they are so soft and gentle on tender skin. We recommend the Goodnight pad and Regular-Maxi pads for postpartum.
Incontinence - Many Moons pads are ideal for light-moderate incontinence protection. We suggest using 2 liners to provide optimal absorbency. Just choose a pad length that is right for you.
| Ordering FAQ/Common Questions | Unsure of How Many to Order?- if you are not sure how many pads to order...
If you have a light to medium flow, a good staring point is 6 pads.
If you have a heavier flow, 12 pads is a good starting point
The number of pads you will need also depends on whether or not you plan to do a wash during your cycle.
Unsure What to Order?- if you are not sure what to order the following will provide you with some guidelines.
If you have a very heavy flow or intend to use the pads mainly at night try the Goodnight set for ultimate absorbency.
If you have a medium to light flow you could try the Combination set or a Regular-Maxi set.
If you have a light flow or intend to use the pads mainly for liners try the Regular-Maxi or Mini set.
Remember all our pads can be used by themselves or with 1 or 2 liners depending on your absorbency needs.
Custom sets - order your own custom set
If you would like an 6 pack or 3 pack combination of colors/sizes that is not listed, please let us know - we are happy to fill custom orders (no extra charge!)
Organic Pads with Nylon Lining - normally our organic pads do not have nylon - some women do prefer to have the nylon so we provide it at no extra charge as a special order - just mention that you want organic with nylon. The special order may take a week or so more depending on our stock, but the wait is worth it if you want the nylon. Washable Pads FAQ Q. How long do Many Moons menstrual pads last?
A. Many Moons pads last 5 - 6 years or more. That makes them a fraction of the cost of disposables - or less than 70 cents/month! The record "life" for Many Moons pads so far for is 10 years. Q. Do they stain?
A. They rarely stain. The key is to soak used pads as soon as possible in cold water (warm and hot water encourage staining). If you are unable to to an immediate soak and some staining should occur, 'eco-friendly' stain removal products, such as peroxide, Borax, Washing Soda or Shaklee's Basic Bright can be used. Q. But - are they as absorbent as disposables?
A. Yes! Cotton is far more absorbent than the wood fiber that disposables are made from. More absorbent and definitely more comfortable! Q. I work outside the home - how could I use Many Moons?
A. Easy! Put your used pads into a plastic bag and soak them as soon as you get home or when it is convenient (or you may wish to order our Many Moons Carrying Bag - enough room for a full days' supply). Q. How many menstrual pads would I need?
A. That depends on your flow, how often you want to wash and dry them, and whether you want to use them exclusively. Some women find one set (6 pads) to be a sufficient start. Other women, with heavy flow or if you plan to use them exclusively, choose to get another set of 3 or 6.Buying a 3 or 6 pack makes a good start to "get the feel" of them and to see whether you need more in the future. Q. Do you have anything suitable for after childbirth?
A. The Goodnight pad is very absorbent while still being nice and flat i.e. not bulky, and ideal following birth. The flannel is very soft and gentle on tender perennial skin. The ends of the pad are flared, to give extra protection for heavy flow or night-time use. Q. Do you have products suitable for younger or smaller women?
A. Yes - we make a slightly narrower and shorter (7 1/2") pad for younger women called the "Youth" pad. They are basically the same design as my normal pads but just a bit narrower and shorter given girls tend to be a bit smaller. Prices are the same as my other pads, and they come in a small variety of both pastel and wild. Q. Do you have any products suitable for thong undies?
A. Yes - the Youth pad is ideal for this, as it is both smaller in length and width, thus stays in place better, without outline showing through in clothes like leggings. How to launder the washable pads- pads must be washed once before first use to ensure full absorbency. Remove the inner liner from the pocket. Rinse each piece in cold water. (Warm and hot water encourage staining). Soak in cold water for at least two hours. Hand or machine wash and dry (low heat). If you leave pads soaking for a few days, change the water daily. Pads should not stain if these measures are followed. If staining should occur, environmentally- friendly stain removal products such as oxygen based bleach, hydrogen peroxide bleach or washing soda can be used. (Please do not use chlorine bleaches). It is normal for the pads to shrink a little bit. Some Many Moons users have come up with creative ways of drying the pads in an environmentally-friendly way. One such customer was gracious enough to send photos of her ideas: | | Here are two experiments for drying one Many Moon pad at a time. In both cases, pad has been washed, rinsed, then wrung damp-dry by rolling & squeezing in a towel.
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Thanks Gail! If you would like to share other ways of laundering the pads, please email your ideas to me at: info@manymoonsalternatives.com A Brief History of Menstrual Products (IMPORTANT NOTICE - I provide the following for your information - I do not, in any way, advocate the use of any of the methods of menstrual fluid collection mentioned below, or imply that they are safe to use) In the pre-industrial era woman used a variety of materials to collect menstrual fluids. Animal pelts, mosses, grasses, sea sponges and seaweed have all been used. Such materials continue to be used in recent times by many traditional societies, for example indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest of North America continued to use dried sphagnum moss until the advent of disposable products. With the development of manufactured textiles beginning several thousand years ago, cloth became an option for menstrual use. Among the poorer members of society old rags were often used - this is the origin of the term "on the rag". Once mass manufacturing of textiles and garments became possible as well as "more modern" laundering methods, manufactured cloth pads became available (mid 1800 to about 1940). Also popular were underwear with built in sanitary pads, which were not unlike adult sized diapers. Washable pads or rags remain in use today throughout the poorer countries of the world and in the western world by women with concerns about health and environmental issues related to disposable products. Disposable products started to be made in the 1940s, starting first with belted pads as there were none of the non-gummy adhesives available that today are used to "keep pads in place". The unbelted pad appeared in the late 1960s with the development of adhesives that that would not leave behind a gummy mess on underwear. The belted pad's image of being "grandma's pad" doomed it and it faded from the market in the early 1970s. Disposable products are usually made of wood fiber, although cotton fiber has been used for some products. The use of absorbent gels has become more common in the 1990s. Materials for the internal collection of fluids ("the tampon") are believed to have been used for several thousand years. There is evidence that ancient societies used tampon like fibers for contraception, and the same types of devices may have been used to collect menstrual fluid. As well sea sponges have been in use by coastal societies for thousands of years. The modern tampon was developed in the early 1900s, and of course remains in use today. Several different types of sponge devices have been used in the 1900s including manufactured sponges (in the mid 1900) and sea sponges. |
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- 'cream color' undyed Texas-grown certified organic cotton. With or without nylon lining.