Itsy Bitsy Bums LLC: Party In My Pants

WEAR

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 and many women keep a spare PIMP in their bags 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 women 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 PIMP pad collection is customizable to your flow & underwear. Each size has different dimensions and absorbency. We suggest starting your collection with 2-3 pads in a couple different sizes. Try one of our Kits and test a variety of sizes to find the best fit for you. Get a PIMP Prescription for a point in the right direction. Just answer a couple quick questions and you'll get a customized recommendation.

Some women find that they like lots of different sizes in their collections for different days, flows and underwear. However, most women find that they really prefer only two or three sizes and stick to those. If you start out your collection with a Shebang Kit, 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 women find that they only need 6 pads or liners during their cycle, while other women use 20+. Most women 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. Our Pad Prescription mini-quiz will not only tell you which sizes you probably like but also give you an estimate of how many you'll need.

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 75 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 women 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 waterproof bottom shield that protects against leaks. We use a specially designed high-tech nylon – not PUL (Polyurethane Laminate). This nylon is a breathable fabric with a special hydrophilic layer that allows your body to breath 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. However if you wear a pad too long, you may 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 its size.

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 (note - IBB only carries 'Overnight' at this time). 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. All women 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. Many women wear PIMP pads with thong underwear. Our narrow pads work best, such as the Mini Liner & Small. If you're a thong lover with a very heavy flow, you may need to change your pad more frequently since these PIMPs 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 women 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 just for women. 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 people see my pad?

Unless you are wearing skin tight or semi-translucent clothing, it's unlikely that anyone will be able to see your pad. PIMP cloth pads aren't bulky like lots of conventional pads or even other reusables, so you don't have to worry about extra bulge in your pants, skirts, or shorts.

Can I use PIMPs for incontinence?

Sure. PIMP cloth 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 (note - IBB does not carry 'Queen' at this time). New moms 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.

Can I use PIMPs during perimenopause?

Party In My Pants can help you feel comfier and more secure during perimenopause. Using cloth pads can be one way of nurturing and caring for yourself while your body takes its time to readjust. Keep in mind how unpredictable your body can be and take some time to reacquaint yourself as best you can. If your periods suddenly become very heavy or you experience flooding, there's a chance that your pads will leak. No menstrual product – cloth, cup, or disposable – is designed to hold such an amount of fluid all at once.

Perimenopause is a challenging time for many women. Even if your periods have been regular for decades, all sorts of wacky things can start happening. Your periods might be longer or shorter, your flow may be next to nothing or much heavier, and you might even skip some periods altogether. Ovulation becomes hit or miss some months, resulting in lower levels of progesterone. This may mean longer, heavier periods.

As frustrating as this might be, slowing down and figuring out a new way that works for you can be very empowering. Fighting, resenting, or simply ignoring these changes can make the process much more difficult. This might mean you simply must take a break from your busy life and care for yourself a couple days a month. Maybe this means trying new things like changing your diet or exercising more or less. You may have to switch to larger, more absorbent pads and/ or wear both a menstrual cup and a pad together. Whatever you do, be good to yourself and honor your body.

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. One woman's dream pad is another's uncomfortable wedgie. 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 women find their thighs naturally push their underwear (and pad) into a smaller space. How a cloth pad looks in your panties doesn't always affect the way it feels or works.

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 best way to get pointed in the right direction is by getting a PIMP Prescription. Just answer a couple quick questions and you'll get a customized recommendation.

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 a little lady. If you already have a Large and it's still not doing the trick then try a Wing Extender (coming soon to IBB). 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 ladies who need a little more width.

What's the difference between Flannel and Cotton pads?

Cotton vs. Flannel is largely a matter of personal preference. Some women find they really like just Cotton or just Flannel, while others find they like both equally. Some women 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.

CARE

How do I wash my pads?

The most effective cleaning method is to machine wash pads as one would any other piece of clothing. Just pop ‘em in the washing machine (warm or cold) and toss ‘em in the dryer on low. If you must hand-wash your pads, do so gently by rinsing and squeezing. Some women soak their cloth pads before washing, but with Party In My Pants it's really not necessary.

Pads can be washed using most any detergent, although we recommend an eco-friendly option like Ecos or Seventh Generation. Just remember this rule: DON'T USE BLEACH. It'll damage the waterproof material 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.

Take care not to scrub the dickens out of your pads or wash them multiple times after only one use. This is not only unnecessary, but your pads may not last very long as a result. If, for example, your cleaning routine consists of rinsing, scrubbing, soaking, hand-washing AND machine washing, you'll wear out your pads in no time at all. With proper care, PIMPs will likely last far longer than the typical 5-7 years.

Can I wash my PIMPs with other laundry?

Sure can. As long as your pad is mostly dry it won't affect or stain any of your other laundry. It might feel odd at first, but soon it'll be as routine as washing your socks or underwear. If washing your PIMPs with your other laundry makes you too uncomfortable, you can always wash them separately or place them in a mesh lingerie bag.

When should I wash my PIMPs?

PIMP pads can be washed periodically during your cycle or all at once at the end, which ever is more convenient. As long as your cloth pads are stored in a dry, breathable place, you can wash them at your leisure. Just fold and snap your used pad into its self-contained pouch (see above for the step-by-step in photos) and toss it in the hamper. When you're ready to wash your pads, unsnap and throw them in the wash.

Don't they stain?

Most of the patterns we offer are chosen with stain camouflaging in mind so many will show little or no staining. Yippie! If you're particularly concerned about stains, we suggest choosing primarily black, brown or red colored pads. Although some light staining is common after a few uses, most women are pleasantly surprised how clean and fresh their pads look even after years of use.

To treat stains, dampen the pad with water, sprinkle or squirt your chosen eco-friendly stain remover directly on the stain and let stand for a few minutes before tossing in the wash. We highly recommend Oxo Brite – an environmentally friendly stain remover that works by dissolving proteins, so it won't fade your pad’s styling pattern. Just remember this rule: DON'T USE BLEACH. It'll damage the waterproof material 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.

You recommend Oxo Brite, but can I use OxiClean instead?

Sorry, but no. Don't substitute OxiClean for Oxo Brite. OxiClean's harsher chemical make up may degrade the nylon shield over time and cause premature leaking.

How should I dry my pads?

We recommend tumble drying pads – just make sure to use the low or medium setting. High heat might melt the nylon shield and ruin your pad.

Air-dried pads – as with other line-dried clothing – often become stiff and hard. When fiber is moistened, it relaxes. If air-dried in one position, it holds the shape and becomes fixed in that position to some degree. That's why you get that stiff feeling with air-dried clothing: all the fibers are locked in position, whatever position they were dried in. If cloth is agitated as it dries (such as being flopped around in a dryer), it doesn't dry in any one position and is more flexible.

If line or air-drying, take care not to leave pads in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. The sun can act as a bleaching agent and damage the nylon shield over time.

I don't think I can handle washing my pads. Isn't that a lot of extra work?

Washing your PIMPs might seem like a drag if you've never tried it, but it's really simple. PIMP pads don't need any special treatment. The best way to wash your pads is to pop 'em in the washer and toss 'em in the dryer. Don't get around to doing laundry as often as you’d like? No problem. You don't have to wash your pad the moment you’ve finished using it. Just snap 'em up and throw 'em in the hamper. Wash your PIMPs whenever you happen to do laundry next. Now with all the anxiety that’s floating around about menstrual blood, it might seem a little odd at first. But this routine is tried, true, and the ladies of Party In My Pants swear by it.

My pad smells a little musty after washing. What gives?

If you soaked your PIMP, it's possible you left it in the water too long. Soaking your cloth pads for more than a few hours can make them mildewy and musty. Same goes for storing your pads in a damp place or sealed in a plastic bag for a long time. But don't worry, all you have to do is add a little vinegar or lemon juice to your warm wash water and run your pads through the wash again.

Did a second washing and still smell that pesky odor? It's possible you´re suffering from a vaginal infection such as Bacterial Vaginosis or a Yeast Infection. These conditions are common in women who´ve used disposable menstrual products, particularly tampons. Tampons can alter the pH balance in your vagina by introducing foreign bacteria and absorbing healthy bacteria. But don´t worry: there are many natural methods of getting that healthy bacterial balance back.

What should I do when traveling?

Travelling with your PIMPs isn't as tricky as you might think. PIMP cloth pads fold up securely into individual (and super stealthy!) carrying pouches. Your used pad stay perfectly contained, and your clean pads fit conveniently into your bag. And as long as your pads are stored in a relatively dry and breathable place, you can postpone washing them until it's convenient. If you're traveling light, you can make do with 2-3 pads. Wash a couple by hand, let them dry overnight, and use them again the next day.

GENERAL
I like the idea of PIMPS, but don't like pads. What's a woman to do?

Good news: PIMP pads are much more comfortable and work better than either disposable pads or tampons. Cloth pads, especially well-designed ones, are worlds away from bulky, sweaty, bikini-waxing disposables. Even sworn tampon girls are now crazy for PIMPs!

PIMP cloth pads are made of soft, thin fabric and held in place with small nickel-free metal snaps. You know that obnoxious rustling with disposable pads? PIMPs have zero plastic, so they´re as quiet as can be. And PIMP pads are so thin you never have to worry about lumps or bumps appearing in your pants, skirts, or shorts.

Most of the uncomfy-ness associated with disposable pads has to do with their synthetic materials and adhesive strips. Disposable pads typically have synthetic webbing and are held together by plastic components. All that stuff makes pads way less breathable. It also creates a humid, sweaty environment, which makes bacteria happy and your disposable stink. And sooner or later, the adhesive backing goes astray: onto skin or in pubic hair. Ouch! And though you might forget your tampon is there most of the time, inserting and pulling it out can be another matter. Tampons soak up your menstrual blood AND all the fluids in your vaginal tissue. Dry tampons and an un-lubricated vagina? Enough said.

How are PIMP's pads different from other cloth pads?
Party In My Pants' all-in-one design makes for a thin, comfortable and easy to use pad. Most commercially available cloth pads have two separate parts: a holder and insert. Party In My Pants cloth pads have a cotton top layer, absorbent cotton core, and a unique leak-proof nylon bottom shield. No assembly required! Party In My Pants don't have fussy multiple parts that get lost or misplaced. And without separate pieces, PIMP pads won't shift or bunch uncomfortably.

Party In My Pants are top-stitched around the edge, while most other reusable pads are serge stitched. Serging is quicker, but not as durable. Some women find that a serge stitch chafes or just plain irritates their skin. Plus, you can only fix surge stitching if you have a special sewing machine. If needed, Party In My Pants are easily repaired with a regular sewing machine or needle and thread, giving your pad extra-long life!

And the fabrics' designs! Super-cool and fun, sure to make you smile!

But disposables are so convenient, why should I switch?

Party In My Pants will change the way you think and feel about your period. For the first time ever you'll actually look forward to that time of the month and when it comes, you’ll be comfier and happier than ever before. This isn’t marketing mumbo-jumbo. It's what women tell PIMP over and over. Even women who first said, “No way, not for me.” Even women who’d sworn off pads ‘til hell froze over. Even the most skeptical, squeamish women turn around and say, “I love my PIMPs!”

Party In My Pants is about making women happy. And it’s nice to know that happiness doesn’t cost our environment or our whole paycheck. In fact, you’ll save a bunch of $$ and live more sustainably.

Disposable menstrual products can cost a woman nearly $3,000 dollars over her menstruating years. (If you buy organic disposables, you’re probably spending twice as much.) That's a trip to Greece! That’s a lifetime supply of chocolate! By switching to Party In My Pants cloth pads, you'll spend about a third of that amount. What’s more, over 12 billion disposable menstrual products are thrown away in the U.S. alone. And their manufacture produces many, many times that in by-products and pollution.

How long is the lifespan of a PIMP pad?

A PIMP typically lives for 5-7 years under normal use – using a particular pad once per cycle. If you don't typically wash and reuse any pads mid-cycle, your collection will last for years and years. You'll probably be lusting after some new, fabulous pattern long before any of your PIMPs bite the dust. However, a pad's longevity can be shortened if you usually wear and wash a pad more than once during a cycle. Like anything, the more you use it the faster it wears out. But having fewer pads and washing and reusing them more frequently doesn't mean you don't get your $'s worth since your initial investment was smaller. Think about it this way: A pad will last for about 75 washings or 5-7 years – whichever comes first.

How much money will I save by switching to cloth pads?

Click here to get an estimate of how much you will save with cloth pads. From menarche to menopause, women typically bleed for 35 years and disposable menstrual products can cost a woman nearly $3,000 dollars over her menstruating years. If you buy organic disposables, you're probably spending twice as much. That's a trip to Greece! That's a fancy-schmancy bike! Maybe that's money you didn't have in the first place. By switching to Party In My Pants pads, you'll spend a fraction of that amount.

What will my partner think?

If you've never discussed menstruation with your partner you might be pleasantly surprised how supportive he or she is. Many people consider talking about menstruation a taboo, but watch out: this attitude is rapidly changing. If your partner is a guy, he might welcome the discussion since most men will admit to being woefully clueless about menstruation. If your partner is a woman, she might have her own stories and thoughts to share.

Maybe you just know your partner will reject the idea of cloth pads or think it's "gross." Maybe you're still figuring it out for yourself or on the fence about whether to switch to cloth pads. It can be a little scary at first. Probably ever since you can remember you've been getting the same old message: keep it secret, keep it safe, and by all means throw it away! If you need help opening the discussion, you could visit this website together or send him or her the link. Hopefully your partner will see cloth pads aren't so strange after all and that women across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Australia, and Europe are switching every day.

Party In My Pants - FAQs