The struggle is real when trying to decide between reusable or disposable nursing pads during those early days of postpartum. (Oh, the things we overthink when we’re pregnant!) So what should you choose?
We’re breaking down the pros and cons of both types, sharing real mom feedback, and helping you feel confident in your decision, because no matter what you pick, your comfort matters most.
When You’re Leaking Through Everything...
Whether it’s your favorite bra, your baby’s onesie, or the hoodie you grabbed at 3 a.m., leaks happen. Nursing pads quickly become a daily essential, but knowing which type to stock up on can feel overwhelming when you’re 9 months pregnant and trying to stock your postpartum cart.
Here’s what you need to know:
Reusable Nursing Pads: The Eco-Friendly Classic
Pros:
- Eco-conscious: Wash and reuse over and over again—better for the planet and your wallet long-term.
- Budget-friendly: Higher upfront cost, but more cost-effective over time.
- Can Be Softer on skin: Ours are made from 100% organic bamboo, which is extra gentle on sore or cracked nipples.
Cons:
- Laundry load: They need to be washed regularly—especially in the early days when leakage is heavy.
- Upfront investment: Typically more expensive initially than disposables.
- Can feel bulky: Some moms find them slightly more noticeable under clothing.
Disposable Nursing Pads: Convenient & Travel-Friendly
Pros:
- No mess, no stress: Use and toss! Perfect for middle-of-the-night changes or days when laundry feels like too much.
- Ultra-absorbent: Designed to handle heavy leaks with ease.
- Low maintenance: No washing, no drying, no remembering which ones are clean.
Cons:
- More waste: One-time use = more thrown away.
- Potential irritation: Some materials or adhesives can be rough on sensitive skin.
- “Diaper in a bra” feeling: Some moms say disposable nursing pads can feel bulky
What Real Moms Are Saying:
“Honestly, I used disposables the first few weeks when I was leaking like crazy. I couldn’t keep up with laundry and needed something quick and easy.”
— Samantha, mom of 2
“I love that I can just throw them in the wash. I keep a little stash by my pump station and swap them out as needed.”
— Melissa, second-time mom
“I like having both! Reusables during the day, disposables at night so I don’t wake up soaked.”
— Chelsea, first-time mom
So… Which One Is Best?
Here’s the honest answer: there’s no wrong choice. It comes down to what works best for your body and your lifestyle.
Some moms love the softness and sustainability of reusable pads. Others swear by the convenience of disposables. Many use both depending on the time of day, the season they’re in, or how chaotic life feels that week. It’s all valid.
Why Le Lolo Pads Are Different
At Le Lolo, we believe every detail in your postpartum journey should support and uplift you. Yes, even your nursing pads.
Le Lolo Reusable Nursing Pads
We chose soft, breathable bamboo that’s extra gentle on delicate skin and backed it with a leakproof layer to keep you dry. Our contoured design sits smoothly under clothing without bulk, and the skin-tone color options (from light to deep) help moms feel seen. Because postpartum should never feel one-size-fits-all.
Each set comes with a high-quality mesh laundry bag that can handle thousands of washes, long after your nursing days are done. Stylish, sustainable, and mom-approved.
Le Lolo Disposable Nursing Pads
We gave our disposables the same love and attention to detail. They’re ultra-thin yet super absorbent with six protective layers and a gentle anti-bacterial core to wick away moisture and keep irritation at bay.
The floral design is pretty and functional, fitting discreetly inside your bra with full adhesive backing to keep them in place. Plus, moms love the wrapper-free packaging—just grab, peel the backing, and go. No rustling, no mess.
Whether you’re heading out for the day or just need something simple and stress-free, our disposables have you covered, without sacrificing comfort or beauty.
Final Thoughts
Whether you go reusable, disposable, or a little of both, you deserve nursing pads that make you feel supported, confident, and comfortable during one of the most tender times of your life.
When you choose Le Lolo, you're choosing beautifully designed, high-quality postpartum essentials created by a real mom who understands what you're going through. We hope this helped make your decision a little easier—or at least convinced you that having both on hand is never a bad idea!
Explore our reusable nursing pads here, and our disposable nursing pads here, and choose what fits your journey best.
At the end of the day, however you leak, you deserve to feel held, and you deserve beautiful postpartum accessories that support you and remind you of your beauty, strength, and worth every day. You got this mama!
Written by Courtney Boylan | Mom of 3 | Founder of Le Lolo