Take some time to study our Frequently Asked Questions.

By thoroughly reading the FAQ you can make the best decision about what’s right for you and know what to expect from Party In My Pants. If you have ANY questions not answered here, we hope that you won’t hesitate to contact us directly. We are always more than happy to answer any questions and help in every way possible.

Wear

What if I need an extra snap?

We offer adding an additional snap to your pad to make it more narrow. Choose “yes” for the option “need an extra snap?” to the pad when you purchase, and tip your seamstress for the work here along with your order. 

If you choose to add snaps at home we recommend this snap setter.
We use YKK size #16 nickel free open prong snaps.

How do I wear Party In My Pants?

Party In My Pants cloth pads are worn just like conventional pads with wings. Instead of adhesive strips, PIMP pad wings have snaps that fasten around the base of your underwear. Just remember to always place your pad flannel or cotton side up and nylon side down.

 

 

How often should I change my pad?

Depending on the heaviness of your cycle, you may need to change your PIMP 1 – 6 times per day. If your pad feels moist or wet next to your skin, then it’s time to change your PIMP. For example, if you have a really, really heavy flow, you might change your pad 6 times on the first day, 3-4 times the following days, and end your cycle using several liners. Got a light flow? You might only need to change your pad once, even on those heavy days.

What about changing my pad when I’m not home?

Party In My Pants fold up securely into individual (and super stealthy) carrying pouches. With the absorbent side face up, simply fold in the top and bottom and snap the wings together. Your pad will stay safe and clean until you can wash it. This is also a perfect way to carry your clean pads or keep a spare PIMP in your bag just in case.

If you’d like an extra layer of protection, try carrying a small bag just for your pads like this one or this one.

Some people think that a pad must be washed or rinsed as soon it’s taken off. We’ve found it unnecessary to sprint to the washer or sink. It’s perfectly okay to wash your pads whenever you happen to do laundry next – even if that’s several days later.

What size should I choose?

Your pad collection is customizable to both your flow & the style of underwear you prefer. Each size has different dimensions and absorbency. We suggest starting your collection with 2-3 pads in a couple different sizes.

Some find that they like lots of different sizes in their collections for different days, flows and underwear. However, most people find that they really prefer only 2 or 3 sizes and stick to those. You probably find that not every size is your favorite but trying them all also helps you decide what you do like. Then when you decide to build on your collection, you’ll know exactly what to stock up on.

Cloth pads are such a personal accessory that only you can know what’s best for you. We try our hardest to give the best advice and point you in the right direction but finding your perfect fit can sometimes take some trial and error. Starting out with cloth pads can be super exciting but we really recommend capping your first order at 3 or 4 pads. That way you may only end up with 1 or 2 pads that might not be perfect for you instead of a whole bunch.

How many pads do I need?

Some people find that they only need 6 pads or liners during their cycle, while others use 20+. Most people fall somewhere in-between. Once you’ve found the size(s) you like best, start building your collection based on the length and heaviness of your cycle.

Looking to save a little? You can always wash your pads during your cycle and use them again right away. This isn’t quite as convenient as have enough to last your whole period, but it’s definitely an option. Keep in mind that since you’re using your pads more often you probably have to replace them more frequently too. Party In My Pants will last for about 65 washings or 5-7 years – whichever comes first.

Um, do they smell?
If you change your pad often enough, your PIMPs won’t smell. Cloth pads allow moisture to evaporate and less moisture means less odor (and no more feeling like there’s a soggy lump in your pants!). Your PIMP won’t feel wet until it’s completely saturated and then it’s time to change it!

If you do notice a strong smell, you could be suffering from a vaginal infection like Bacterial Vaginosis or a Yeast Infection. These conditions are common in those who’ve previously used disposable menstrual products, especially tampons. Don’t worry! There are many natural methods of establishing a healthy bacterial balance.

In fact, if you feel like your menstrual blood has a scent, disposable menstrual products might actually be the culprit. Disposable pads are typically held together by synthetic webbing and plastic components. This fake stuff reduces a pad’s breathability and creates a humid, sweaty environment that bacteria just loves. And contrary to popular belief, tampons aren’t sterile. They can alter your vagina’s pH balance by introducing foreign bacteria and absorbing healthy bacteria.

Do they leak?

Party In My Pants have a leak-resistant bottom shield made from a specially designed micro porous nylon*—a fabric that allows your body to breathe while stopping your period from leaking through.

What’s more, PIMP cloth pads are more absorbent than the disposable menstrual products you’re used to. It’s virtually impossible to leak through a pad, provided the nylon has not be damaged by improper care. However if you wear a pad too long, it’s possible to leak off the sides. When you first start using PIMPs it’s best to be a little more vigilant about checking your pad. After a few times you’ll be an absorbency pro and will know when to change a pad based on your flow.

*This nylon should not be confused with PUL—Polyurethane laminate. PUL is commonly used in cloth diapering and by many other cloth pad makers, but is not breathable.

I have a super heavy flow. Will PIMPs work for me?
Absolutely! You’ll probably need our Overnight or Queen pads on your heaviest days. PIMP cloth pads are so much more absorbent than disposables; they may even make things easier. More awesome: You’ll spend less time changing your pads or tampons and worrying that they’ll leak. Everyone using cloth pads for the first time should be a wee bit more vigilant about checking their PIMP. After a cycle or 2, you’ll be familiar with the absorbency of a particular size and will know when to change it.

In some extreme cases, PIMPs might not be enough. If you have tidal flooding because of menopause or fibroids then you might need to pair your pad with a menstrual cup or sea sponge. No menstrual product – cloth, cup, sponge or disposable – is designed to hold such an amount of fluid by itself.

Can I wear PIMPs with a thong?

You bet. We designed the Thong Liner just for you! Thong Liners are great for light-days, spotting, daily discharge or as backup for a menstrual cup or sea sponge. If you are need of a more absorbent pad, our narrowest pads work best with thongs, such as the Small & Medium. If you would like us to add the second set of snap to those sizes, just ask when you place your order. If you’re a thong lover with a very heavy flow, you may need to change your pad more frequently since these pads are less absorbent than our larger sizes.

What about riding a bike?

Many PIMP pad users are avid cyclists and find our pads are just as comfy straddling a bicycle seat. The metal snaps are nestled underneath many layers of fabric so there’s no poking.

However some people do find the snap to be a little uncomfortable. If you hop on your bike and your pad makes a nuisance of itself, then there are a couple things you can try. First, you might try simply scooting the pad a little forward or a little back so you aren’t putting so much pressure right where the snap is. You might also try playing around with the angle of your bike seat. Try pointing the nose down a little so that most of your weight is placed towards the back and less to the middle or front. Finally, if you’re really set on the most comfortable ride possible, you could look into a special bike seat. It has an opening in the center so you’re not putting any pressure on your vulva. Terry Bicycles offers some nice ones on their website: www.terrybicycles.com. We hear that this type of seat is better for you in general.

Can I use cloth pads for incontinence?
Sure. Party In My Pants pads can be used for stress incontinence when small amounts of urine are released. Stress incontinence may be caused by pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause and occur when coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising.
Can I use PIMPs postpartum?
Yes. We recommend our Queen and Overnight pad for postpartum bleeding. New parents report that they change their pads more frequently than during a menstrual period. It’s possible that you’ll have to change your pad every few hours during your most heavy postpartum bleeding.
My pad seems too narrow and puts my undies in a bunch. What’s up with that?

When you first switch to cloth pads, finding the right size might mean some trial and error. If you notice that your pad seems to crunch the gusset (commonly known as the crotch) of your underwear, the first thing to consider is your comfort. If you pull up your underwear and you’re feelin’ fine, then you’re good to go. Some people find their thighs naturally push their underwear (and pad) into a smaller space. How a cloth pad looks in your underwear doesn’t always affect the way it feels or works. However, if you find you do need a wider pad, you can use a Wing Extender or switch to a wider style pad. If you need help finding the best fit for you, just drop us a line.

However, if your pad crunches your underwear uncomfortably, then we gotta back up a couple steps. This means that you don’t have the right size for your underwear or body type.

The biggest culprit for bunched undies are boy-cut panties. This underwear style simply has more fabric down there and requires a wide pad like our Large—even if you’re petite. If you already have a Large and it’s still not doing the trick then try a Wing Extender. It’s a little elastic band with snaps on each end that attach to the snaps on the pad. This will lengthen the wings and make even narrow sizes like Small or Medium work for those who need a little more width.

What are the sizes of all your pads?
Size Absorbency Length (inches) Width (inches) Recommended for
Micro Liner Light 5.5 1.25 Extra Small, Thong
Thong Liner Light 7 2, tapers to ¾ Thong
Mini Liner Light 7 2 Bikini, French/Petite Brief
Demi Liner Light 7 3 Boy short, Hipster, Full Brief
Luxe Liner Light 9 ½ 3 Boy short, Hipster, Full Brief
Small Pad Light/Medium 7 2 Bikini, French/Petite Brief
Bitsy Pad Medium 7.5 2.25 Bikini, French/Petite Brief
Medium Pad Medium 10 2 ½ Bikini, French/Petite Brief
Jetty Pad Medium 10 2 ½ Bikini, French/Petite Brief
Large Pad Medium/Heavy 10 ½ 3 Boy short, Hipster, Full Brief
Overnight Pad Heavy 12 ¼ 3 Boy short, Hipster, Full Brief
Super Pad Very Heavy 10 ½ 3 Boy short, Hipster, Full Brief
Super Overnight Pad Very Heavy 12 ¼ 3 Boy short, Hipster, Full Brief
Queen Pad Very Heavy 15 ½ 3 ½ Boy short, Hipster, Full Brief
Can I adjust the width of my pad?

All sizes can be made wider by adding a Wing Extender.

Most size can be made narrower by adding an optional snap. (Not recommended for Mini Liners or Small Pads)

What’s the difference between the Flannel and Cotton pads?
Cotton vs. Flannel is largely a matter of personal preference. Some people find they really like just Cotton or just Flannel, while others find they like both equally. Still others find they like Cotton for certain days and prefer Flannel for others.

The Flannel is a little bit cozier than the Cotton, while the Cotton is a little bit smoother and ever-so-slightly thinner than the Flannel. If you live in a warm climate, you might prefer the Cotton since it’s less prone to trapping body heat than the Flannel. In terms of absorbency, they’re identical. We suggest trying one of each to see which you prefer.

I wear disposable pantiliners for daily discharge. Can I use cloth liners instead?

Absolutely. For any purpose you might use disposible pads or pantiliners, Party In My Pants Pads or Liners can be used instead. Our Liners come in handy for menstrual and non-menstrual needs alike: daily discharge, urinary incontinence, after sex (especially when a spermicide or lubricant is used). Basically, if you have fluid or moisture you want to keep off your under things, Party In My Pants has you covered!

Care

How do I wash my pads?
The easiest, most effective cleaning method is to machine wash pads just like any other piece of clothing. Just pop ‘em in the washing machine (warm or cold) and toss ‘em in the dryer on low. Some people soak their cloth pads before washing, but with Party In My Pants it’s generally not necessary. However, if you have an older washing machine, you might find it doesn’t clean pads as thoroughly and you may opt to soak them very briefly in cool water (5 min max) to loosen any dried fluids before machine washing. If your washing machine has a pre-wash setting, you could also use that instead of soaking.

If hand washing is your only option, take care to do so as gently as possible while still cleaning the pad thoroughly. In the case of hand washing, we recommend soaking very briefly in cool water and a stain treatment (5 min max) to loosen any fluids before washing. Then, rinse and squeeze pads until the water runs clear, rather than scrubbing out the soiled areas. If scrubbing is necessary, lift top layers away from the nylon shield (bottom layer) and scrub the top layers with the same action you would to wash out your underwear. The nylon layer is what makes pads leak-resistant, so take care to treat it gently.

Pads can be washed using most any detergent, although we recommend an eco-friendly option like Ecos or Seventh Generation. Be sure to avoid using super-hot water, a scorching hot dryer, bleach, dryer sheets or fabric softener. All will damage the nylon backing and bring about your pad’s untimely demise. Tip: Double check that your detergent doesn’t contain bleach so that you don’t inadvertently damage your pads.

Also, try not to mistake stains for uncleanliness — over-treating and re-washing unnecessarily will shorten the useful life of pads. If a pad is truly not clean, it will feel very stiff and be significantly less absorbent. To treat stains, dampen the pad with water, sprinkle or squirt on your chosen eco-friendly stain remover (we recommend Oxo Brite ) directly on the stain and let stand for a few minutes before tossing in the wash. Avoid scrubbing out the stain and just let the stain remover do its work.