How to make your own reusable sanitary pads
24 May 2019
Follow our step-by-step guide to make your own eco-friendly, reusable sanitary pads - the same method used by women in Nepal to manage their periods.
Reusable sanitary pads are a great plastic-free, eco-friendly alternative to disposable tampons and pads.
They're cost-effective and easy to make, which is why ActionAid provides training in Nepal in how to make reusable pads using this method, as part of our global work ending period poverty for women, girls and people who menstruate.
So to celebrate this year's Menstrual Hygiene Day, why not learn how to make your own?
To get started with your pad, you'll need the following materials: thick paper, a marker pen, a ruler, scissors, thin fabric (cotton is ideal), thick fabric (e.g. an old towel), a button, a needle and thread and a safety pin.
Next, download your instructions, including the template for your pad.
Did you find our guide to making reusable sanitary pads useful? If so, and you'd like to make a small contribution to our work, you can help us give girls access to safe, hygienic sanitary products or help fund workshops to teach girls how to make their own reusable, sanitary towels.