How to Use a Sanitary Pad: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Learning how to use a sanitary pad takes about a minute, and getting it right means better comfort and far fewer leaks. This simple guide walks through it step by step — how to position the pad, how to use the wings, how often to change it, and how to throw a used pad away cleanly.

We have manufactured feminine hygiene for 20+ years across 80+ countries, so these are the practical basics that hold true for almost any pad.

Step by Step

1. Wash your hands and unwrap the pad from its plastic wrapper.
2. Peel off the back strip. The adhesive side goes down, onto your underwear — not against your skin.
3. Position the pad along the centre of your underwear, with the absorbent length running front to back. Centre it so the widest part sits where you need the most protection.
4. Press it down firmly so the adhesive sticks and the pad does not shift.
5. Check the fit by pulling your underwear up as normal. The pad should feel flat and secure, not bunched.

How to Use Pads With Wings

Many pads have wings — side flaps that lock the pad in place and guard against side leaks.

• Peel the smaller adhesive strips off the wings.
• Fold each wing down and around the edge of your underwear, so they stick to the underside.
• The wings should wrap the fabric, not overlap each other.

Wings are especially worth using on heavier days and overnight. See types of sanitary pads for which formats include them.

How Often to Change a Sanitary Pad

As a general guide, change a pad every 4–6 hours, and sooner on heavy days or whenever it feels full or damp. Changing regularly keeps you fresh and comfortable. On heavy-flow days, a higher-absorbency or overnight format means longer between changes — our guide to the best sanitary pads for heavy flow explains which to pick.

How to Dispose of a Used Pad

Disposing of a pad cleanly is simple:

1. Roll the used pad up from front to back.
2. Wrap it in its own wrapper, in toilet paper, or in the wrapper of your fresh pad.
3. Put it in a bin — never flush a pad down the toilet, as it can block plumbing.

If you prefer a lower-waste option, reusable vs biodegradable sanitary pads compares washable and plant-based choices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adhesive against the skin — The sticky side always faces your underwear.
• A pad that is too small — Match the length to your flow; too short means leaks. See how to choose sanitary pads.
• Leaving it on too long — Change every few hours for comfort and freshness.
• Flushing it — Always bin a used pad.

For Retailers and Distributors

Clear usage and disposal information builds trust in a brand — especially in markets where shoppers are trying new formats. We supply day, overnight, XXL and organic pads with wings, ready for your own label. Explore our sanitary pads range and request free samples to feel the quality before you stock it.