Reusable Pad Core and Absorbency Guide

The core is the absorbent centre of your reusable pad. It is the part that holds fluid, helps keep moisture away from your skin and gives you the level of protection you need.

At TCS-eco, you can choose your absorbency based on your flow, how long you plan to wear the pad and where you need the most confidence. Many people build a mixed stash, using lighter pads at the beginning and end of their period, regular pads through the day and heavier or longer pads for busy days, nights or heavier flow.

How to Choose Your Absorbency

There is no one absorbency that works for every day of your period. The right choice depends on your individual flow and how often you prefer to change your pad.

A shorter pad with a heavier core may suit daytime wear, while a longer pad with the same core can give you more front-to-back coverage for sitting, travelling or sleeping.

For help choosing your shape, length and width, visit our Reusable Pad Fit Guide.

Liner Absorbency — Up to 20ml

Liner pads are designed for very light flow, spotting, discharge, the beginning or end of your period, or everyday reassurance.

They are also a useful option for very light bladder leaks.

Liner core: Hemp Organic Cotton 55/45

Regular Absorbency — Up to 50ml

Regular pads are a great everyday choice for light to moderate period flow and lighter bladder leaks.

They are a popular option for daytime wear, especially when you prefer a pad that feels comfortable and flexible without needing the highest level of absorbency.

Regular core: Zorb 3 Organic Cotton, 550gsm

Heavy Absorbency — Up to 80ml

Heavy pads are designed for heavier period flow, longer days, travel or times when you want more reassurance.

They are ideal for customers who find regular absorbency is not quite enough but do not need the full protection of a Night pad.

Heavy core: One layer of Hemp Organic Cotton and one layer of Zorb Organic Cotton, 550gsm

Night Absorbency — Up to 100ml

Night pads are designed for heavy flow, overnight wear and days when you want maximum confidence.

For the best overnight protection, pair Night absorbency with a longer pad length and choose a shape and width that gives you the coverage you prefer.

Night core: Two layers of Zorb Organic Cotton, 550gsm

Confidence Absorbency — Up to 250ml

Confidence pads offer the highest level of reusable absorbency available from TCS-eco.

They are designed for people who need substantial protection for very heavy flow, heavier bladder leaks or longer periods between changes. Because this core contains more absorbent layers, it will be thicker than our lighter absorbency options.

Confidence core: Two layers of Hemp Organic Cotton and four layers of Zorb Organic Cotton, 550gsm

Absorbency Is Only One Part of a Good Fit

Choosing the right core is important, but your pad shape, length and width also affect how secure it feels.

• Choose a longer pad for more front-to-back coverage.

• Choose a wider pad for more side-to-side coverage.

• Choose waterproof PUL fleece backing when you need a waterproof barrier, particularly for bladder leaks or heavier flow.

• Choose the topping that feels best against your skin, including Cotton Jersey, Bamboo Velour or Minky.

Explore our Pad Width Guide, Pad Topping Guide and Pad Backing Guide to build a pad that suits you.

Build a Stash That Works for Your Cycle

Most people do not use the same pad every day. A practical reusable pad stash might include liner pads for lighter days, regular pads for daytime flow, and heavier or Night pads for more protection when needed.

Start with a Reusable Pad Starter Pack, build your own pad stash, or explore reusable pads for bladder leaks.