Want to know, “What are panty liners for?” You’re in the right place. Explore the key differences between panty liners versus pads and when to use each!
Most people think of panty liners as a menstrual product, but they’re actually used much more frequently! Many women regularly use liners throughout their cycle to keep underwear discharge-free and stay clean throughout the day. In this article, we’ll cover what panty liners are, what they’re used for, and the main differences between them and sanitary pads. (Plus, how Pinkie Pads could help cover your daily pad needs!)
What are panty liners?
Panty liners are thin and usually light-absorbency pads that can be attached to underwear lining. Disposable panty liners are typically made of cotton and have an adhesive on the bottom that allows you to stick them inside the underwear. Reusable liners often feature soft, lightly absorbent material that can wrap around the bottom portion of your underwear.
What are liners used for?
Because panty liners usually are less absorbent and thinner than pads, they’re typically not used for heavy menstrual flow days. But from there out, pretty much anything else goes! Many women use sanitary pads for lighter days of their flow. Others use them on days they’re experiencing heavier vaginal discharge. And some women wear them almost every day to keep their underwear dry and feeling clean!
Here’s a quick overview of all the ways panty liners are used:
✓ Everyday discharge
✓ Light period days
✓ Spotting at the beginning or end of periods
✓ Absorb sweat during hot weather or exercise
✓ To keep underwear clean and dry through the day
✓ Post-pregnancy leak support
✓ As a back-up for other menstrual products*
*Many women like wearing a panty liner for peace of mind on heavier flow days alongside a tampon, menstrual cup, or other period products.
Things to consider before wearing panty liners every day…
Some find they experience redness, itching, chafing, or irritation when worn every day.
How are panty liners different from period pads?
As we mentioned earlier, liners absorb a small amount of moisture compared to regular menstrual pads. They’re also usually thinner too. So, the main difference is that they’re generally not advised for heavy flow days. But this is where there’s a bit of overlap. Some panty liners are thicker, while some sanitary pads are lighter and thinner. So there can be cross-over between thin pads you could use most days as a liner.
Best practices for using panty liners
Just like with sanitary pads and other feminine care products, you want to change out your panty liners regularly (every 4 to 6 hours) to keep things hygienic and feeling fresh. Or, in the case of reusable liners, you want to swap them out regularly and throw them in the wash.
It’s also best not to wear panty liners every day and night, because even if you change them regularly, they can trap heat and moisture that contribute to bacteria growth and infections. So it’s much better to use them as needed.
Use Pinkie Pads for all your daily discharge and menstrual cycle needs!
Made with all-natural, 100% toxin-free, organic cotton, Pinkie’s Pads offer high absorbency packed into a sleek, slim design — no matter which size you choose. And with 3 sizes to choose from, you have a pad that’s perfect for all your discharge needs. Pinkie’s mini and small pads are perfect for heavy discharge or light menstrual flow days, while Pinkie’s regular pads are ready to take you the rest of the way on your heaviest flow days.
