In short: Nursing pads (breast pads) soak up milk that leaks between feeds. Disposable pads are handy in the first weeks and when you’re out; reusable pads are cheaper in the long run and create less waste. Whichever you choose, change the pad when it gets damp – if your nipples are sore, the NHS advises changing pads at every feed.
Author: Eva Birsa, mum and co-founder of Evitas · Updated: 27 September 2026
Leaking is common and completely normal in the first weeks of breastfeeding, while your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. Pads protect your clothes and skin, and choosing between reusable and disposable is mainly about your daily routine.
Reusable vs disposable: comparison
| Disposable pads | Reusable pads | |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | use and throw away, ideal on the go | need washing and drying |
| Cost | lower upfront, ongoing purchase | higher upfront, cheaper long term |
| Waste | more waste | less waste |
| Feel | thin, often with an adhesive strip | soft fabric, often more breathable |
| Best for | first weeks, heavy leaking, travel | everyday use at home once leaking settles |
Disposable nursing pads
Disposable pads are thin and hygienic because you use a fresh one each time. An adhesive strip keeps them in place in your bra. Choose pads without a plastic backing, or with a breathable backing, because moisture against the skin irritates sore nipples. We stock pads from LOVI, Canpol babies and Philips AVENT – see all nursing pads.
Reusable nursing pads
Reusable pads are made from several layers of soft fabric and can be used again and again. They are a good choice if you want to cut waste and cost. You’ll need enough pairs to change at every feed while others are being washed and dried. Cache Coeur Curve washable pads are one example.
A combination often works best
Many mums use disposable pads in the first weeks when leaking is heaviest, then switch to reusable pads at home and keep disposables for outings and nights.
Nursing pad hygiene
- Change a pad when it’s damp; if your nipples are sore, at every feed (NHS).
- If possible, avoid pads with a plastic backing that doesn’t breathe (NHS).
- Wash reusable pads according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let them dry completely before use.
- Wear a well-fitting nursing bra that doesn’t squeeze your breasts.
When to get help
If your nipples are sore, cracked or bleeding, the most common cause is how your baby is positioned and attached. Talk to your midwife, health visitor or an IBCLC lactation consultant. Read how silver nursing cups may help in Silver nursing cups. Find more essentials in breastfeeding.
Read also: Hospital bag checklist: what to pack.
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need nursing pads?
It varies. For many mums leaking settles after the first weeks or months; others need pads throughout breastfeeding.
How often should I change nursing pads?
Whenever they are damp – and at every feed if your nipples are sore.
Are reusable nursing pads hygienic?
Yes, as long as you change them regularly, wash them as instructed and dry them fully.
Which pads are best at night?
The most absorbent ones; many mums choose disposables or extra-absorbent reusable pads at night.
Can nursing pads cause sore nipples?
A damp pad or a plastic backing can irritate the skin, so change pads regularly.
Sources
This content is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor, midwife or lactation consultant.
