How to make nursing pads (with FREE pattern!)
When you begin nursing a baby you quickly figure out that you need nursing pads to protect your clothing (and pride!) from leaks. There are some good disposable ones, but most are scratchy and uncomfortable, and if you use them as much as I did with my first baby – you end up spending a fortune. The reusable fabric ones are therefore a Godsend – but then unfortunately, they all seem to be unbelievably expensive for what they are!
That’s okay though, we can make our own – and they’re soooo easy!
What you’ll need:
- My nursing pad printable pattern (CLICK HERE)
- Flannel fabric (you could use old receiving blankets or old sheets) made from a natural fibre (cotton or bamboo)
What to do:
- Make sure you pre-wash your fabric – you don’t want your new nursing pads to shrink!!
- Print off the pattern (CLICK HERE) and cut it out.
- In order to make one set of nursing pads, you’ll need to cut 6 to 8 of the pattern (I prefer 8 )
- Sew the darts in all the circles, then trim close to the seam.
- Lay 3-4 of the circles on top of one another, and sew around the edge. I like to use my serger, but you can just as easily use a zig zag stitch on your machine. (please note that the pattern allows for about 1/4″ of fabric to be removed by your serger when sewing – so if you like, you can trim that away if you use a zig zag stitch instead)
- That’s it!!
Important Note:
- DO NOT under any circumstances include some sort of water proof backing or lining in your nursing pads. I know it’s tempting, but your breasts are highly susceptible to clogged ducts and mastitis and not allowing them to breath can bring on or exasperate either or both of those conditions. Your nursing pads need to be breathable! Just don’t do it, please. Besides, adding plastics or the like can often mean that your nursing pads won’t be able to be tumble dried, as the lining will melt (speaking from experience here). I don’t know about you, but I hate anything I can’t tumble dry!
- UPDATE 5/11/11: Someone just made a really great suggestion of using PUL fabric (the type used in cloth diapers) as a waterproof layer on the outside. You still can’t tumble dry PUL, but it might actually be breathable enough. In theory it sounds like a really great idea – so I’m going to do some more research and update you all with what I find out!!
ps. I have another method for making contoured nursing pads that I really love – and i’ll be sharing in a week or so.
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You have no idea how helpful you’ve been. I guess I know now why I had mastitis with my first and again this time around. Looks like I need to add something to my to do list today… Do you think adding the darts makes the pads less noticeable? And my serger isn’t working right now, do you think they’d hold up if I just zig-zagged them?
I’m so glad this helped Tara!! And yes, that’s why I add the darts – to make them less noticeable – i probably should have mentioned that in the post, but I tried making flat circles with my first baby, and they were just way way too lumpy and obvious under my bra, I find the darts help with that. And yes, zig zagging will absolutely work! I would set it to a wide zig zag with a short stitch length if you’re worried about durability – but i honestly think it will be fine!!!
If you are worried about durability, stitch a straight stitch first, then zigzag stitch right next to (beyond) the straight stitch. Trim close to the zigzag stitch. This works great if you don’t own a serger. :)
Thank you! =0)
What if you used PUL on the backs on them? That is a fully breathable and washable water proof material. My babies diapers have it and it works great and he has never had diaper rash.
That is a really really interesting idea!! I’ve honestly never thought of using PUL, even though my little guys diapers have it too. Can’t believe I didn’t think of that. In theory it sounds like a really good idea! I’m going to do some research into it! Thanks for the awesome tip!
PUL stands for POLYURETHAN LAMINATED FABRIC.
I thought the idea was to STAY AWAY from chemicals, and let’s face it, polyurethane is not something I would want wrapped around my breast, even if it was behind layers of soaked fabric. I believe it will leach back to the breast.
I made my own nursing pads out of washcloths much like these 28 years ago. I am going to make them out of flannel for my daughter this time.
I suggest, everyone stay away from anything polyurethane.
PUL’s really not that bad: http://newandgreen.com/blog/pul-eez-tell-me-its-safe-a-look-at-the-safety-of-pul-fabric-in-cloth-diapers it’s used in virtually every cloth diaper/diaper cover that involves a water-proof layer. I’ve never heard of any safety issues with it.
Also I’ve always tumble dried my cloth diapers, and the lining has held up really well. I can’t tell a difference, really. So I’d say, if you try these out with PUL, just stick em in the dryer :)
you have saved me yet again! I am so going to be making some of these with a cute print on one side. :) I am determined to breast feed no matter what and was considering buying some but making them myself would be so much easier.
How many pairs do you think is a good amount for a first time mom?
I’m so happy to help! I love the idea of a cute print on one side! I mean seriously, who would ever see apart from you, so it’s nice to have it a bit more fun!!
With respect to numbers – thats a hard one. I built up my collection over a period of time (i wasn’t well prepared enough to make them in advance!). I found I wet through a set every nursing period for the first few weeks until my milk production settled down. and I nursed 8-10 times a day during that time. Sooo based on that, I’d probably go for about 10 sets? That way you would always have some available and some in the wash, and you could pretty much do a wash once a day. Once my milk production settled down I used to use 1 or 2 sets a day, as it was more of a “just in case” thing than a necessity.
I really hope that helps a bit!!
I know. I love the idea of a little extra fun. I mean if underwear can have cute prints why not nursing pads? ;)
Thanks that helps! I can always make more later if I find I need them.
I was thinking PUL because in the beginning I leaked through these on a regular bases and it was annoying and embarrassing. :) Even if you just made a few with it for when you went out.
I have been making cloth diapers for my little one and in them I use a fabric called Zorb. Since I’m able to use the flannel scraps from the diapers to make breast pads, I think I’m going to put a layer of the Zorb in between two pieces of flannel. The Zorb looks much like felt, but is super absorbent. This way it’ll be a quicker make and I’ll be using up my scraps. I tried making a couple just to see how it’d be compared to the flat breast pads that I’m used to and I like the contour MUCH better. Not NEAR as noticeable. =0)
That’s so clever! I have never heard of Zorb before, but it sounds like a really great idea!! Would you mind sharing a link for where to find it? I’m so intrigued!!
I’m sorry; I honestly don’t remember which site I bought it from, but if you search it, multiple sites come up.
Thanks hun! I will absolutely be checking it out!
To Tara: I would love to know how to make the diapers you are talking about and the more info on the material called Zorb. I have a grand baby due June 17th. :)
Kathy,
Sorry it took me so long to reply, I didn’t know anyone was waiting for a response. My husband’s cousin taught me how to make them and she actually sells them. For that reason, I don’t think it’d be fair for me to give away all of her info on it. I’m sure you understand. It has taken me quite a few tries to getting it right, but they will pay for themselves even after my mistakes on ones that I can’t use. I don’t remember which site I ended up ordering the zorb from, but if you search it, you will find multiple sellers. I have two in diapers right now. I wish I knew how to make pull-ups! I should experiment with it. I guess I’m afraid that as soon as I figure it out, she won’t need them anymore. Or at least I guess I can only hope. =0)
This is such a great idea! I’m a newbie to the whole sewing scene (as well as to the maternity scene–20 weeks in with my very first little boy!), but I feel like this would be a REALLY easy and practical project to work up!
My question is this: would jersey knit fabric work alright? We have a jersey sheet set that got horribly distorted after being washed, and the pillowcases will no longer hold pillows. I was thinking that I could easily convert at least the pillowcases into nursing pads!
I think you could absolutely use jersey knit!! I would just make sure that it has been pre-shrunk before you make them, so you don’t end up with teeny tiny pads! But otherwise I think it would work perfectly! Plus i bet they’d be super soft! You might just need to add an extra few layers to make sure they’re still absorbent enough (i’m not sure how thin your sheet is). Let me know how it goes!!
[...] where Megan and other bloggers are sharing their I-did-it-myself ideas—anything from homemade nursing pads or a belly band to maternity trouser [...]
I just wanted to add that PUL is certainly ok to tumble dry and in fact is recommended as the heat from the dryer seals any holes from sewing or wear that may have occurred. It is also breathable enough for nursing pads. I have used it in my nursing pads with my last 2 children. Some people do have allergies or sensitivities to PUL ( not very common but some babies cant use diapers with PUL). For these people antipil fleece is a great option for a waterproof barrier. It is breathable and water resistant and often much easier to find locally than PUL.
Attempting to make these great pads- ? what layer would the PUL be placed?
Thanks for all the great comments
i’m excited to try this pattern out! i just got some PUL scraps (different shades of blue) from a sweet mama on diaperswappers. can’t wait to have some upcycled nursing pads for the little one due in october. THANKS!
Have you ever try to sew with fleece as “waterproof” backing?
i have sewn some with bamboo velour instead of flannel (because my ni*ples seem to get stuck in the fabric) and fleece and their worked great -anti pill blizzard type of fleece- but ehy are just round so very noticeable. i am sure going to try this pattern. my org. bamboo pads i have found are 6.99 a pair. not bad i think. but they are made locally.
I haven’t tried that to be honest! but it sounds like a great idea in theory. I believe fleece is relatively breathable – but i’m having trouble finding any solid info on it. (what a pain!). I think you’re idea is great though, especially with respect to the sticking issues (as that was a problem for me too!)
Found this info about the fleece– it also mentions bamboo as highly effective. The only thing I would be worried about is that I am constantly hot already and just the thought of fleece makes me want to spontaniously combust lol
Fleece is a synthetic fabric. It has an altered structure that facilitates the transfer of moisture to the fabric. It wicks moisture away from the skin to its outer surface. Fleece is best known for its soft and comfortable character. Other characteristics of the fleece include the fact that it is highly breathable, lightweight, pill-resistant, stain-proof, easy to clean and fast drying. It can also withstand industrial washing and drying.
Read more: What Fabrics Are the Most Absorbent for Cloth Diapers? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8046477_fabrics-absorbent-cloth-diapers.html#ixzz1jCfKKIu5
I heard you could add fleece on the outside to help prevent leaking. Do you think that would still be breathable enough? It would be 3 layers of flannel and 1 layer of fleece.
Oo that’s a really good suggestion! Too be honest I don’t know! I’m having a lot of trouble finding out info about whether things like PUL and fleece are okay. But i figure since both fabrics are used in cloth diapers, they’re probably okay?
Wool is also a breathable, “waterproof” option. I’m planning to make some using an old partially felted wool sweater.
My friend and I going to be making these for her and we are going to use old flannel pajamas. Thank you so much for the pattern!
I”m pretty sure you can tumble dry PUL. at least you can tumble try PUL cloth diapers so i don’t see why not! Thanks for the pattern!
I made a few sets of these today, thanks for the tutorial!!
Hi there!
I’m a novice sewer and first-time mom to a 14-month old boy. I use breastpads (which I bought online…3 pairs for $13) with PUL backing, a layer of hemp, and a layer of microfleece for a “stay-dry” effect. My son also uses cloth diapers with PUL exteriors and I’ve sewn a few PUL covers for him as well.
From what I’ve researched online, if you’re sewing with PUL and find it slippery to work with, either put a sheet of tissue paper over the fabric (which you can tear off after) to provide better grip OR use a walking/Teflon foot. And like someone mentioned before, wash and dry once on hot (for approximately 60 minutes) before first use to seal up your sewing holes in the PUL. In general (at least for cloth diapering), if you use good quality PUL, you should be able to tumble dry PUL. Most people hang dry to extend the life of the PUL. I find that mine take about a day to dry completely, but hemp is quite an absorbent fabric.
Someone also mentioned using fleece as an outer layer. If you want the fleece to be water resistant, you’ll need to use a heavier weight fleece (i.e. polar fleece or 200wt+). If your letdown sprays a li’l to heavily, depending on how thin/absorbent your pad is, it could shoot through the layer of fleece if it’s too thin. (This is why microfleece is used for a stay-dry effect.)
Other pros regarding PUL and fleece is that both fabrics don’t fray! No need to serge/zigzag stitch edges if you don’t want to!
Hope that helps!
Hi there, love the tutorial. I have made these with darts after looking at my sis in laws with no darts which she didn’t like. I was curious about the other contoured option you spoke of? I looked around but couldn’t find it. Thanks :)
Do you think a fleece backside layer would help prevent milk from leaking through onto the bra when I have a major leak?! Or doesnt it work that way… lol
PUL us used on babies bums, i am sure its safe (as for the comment about putting it against your breast)
almost every single cloth diaper uses pul
I just whipped-up a set of three nursing pads from my cloth diaper leftovers – 1 layer of old cotton flannel sheet on the nipple side, 1 layer of microfibre terry cloth (sold as a dusting rag) to absorb and 1 layer of taslon (seems like sports shorts or tent material – it actually holds water.) I didn’t print-out your pattern but I did use it as a moral-support aid. It validated the idea I had in my head!
I haven’t had the baby yet but I bought the microfibre cloths to stuff, folded into 4, into the pocket diapers (I ended up buying cheap and 2nd hand ones after I realized that was more affordable even than making my own and some of them came without the inserts, and the ones that came with inserts had only 3 layers.) I use microfibre cloths for dusting and drying the bathroom counter to keep it shiny between cleans, they are extremely absorbent and quick-drying, I’m HOPING my nipples will leak much less than a baby can pee and one layer will be enough! Might not even need the flannel layer, but I prefer natural fabrics against my skin.
Wish I had a serger :( Zigzag just ain’t the same.
Thanks so much for the pattern. Being on a disability pension, and expecting my first baby, I need to make as many things as I possibly can with the sewing supplies and fabric I have here at home so that I’ll be able to afford the other essentials I need.
Hi! I’ve made the nursing pads, but put a pretty stretch lace on the outer layer. I like feeling pretty, the store bought ones are just awful. I use airy stretch lace without a dart, PUL with a dart, and 3 or more flannel layers with a dart. With the dart, spread them around so the thicker seam area isn’t in the same place for a smoother pad. I dry them on low heat.
i tried it with the PUL fabric – i used the baby boutique stuff from joanns that is used for the reusable diapers – and it was really simple – i had a question though do you use 4 “cones” of marterial to make each pad? i was trying to use 8 and it was just so thick…when i re-read the tutorial i thought maybe i was supposed to use 4 – 8 total for a set!?
For leak-proofing I use fleece… Works awesome and you can tumbledry!
Hi, I love your tutorial! I just posted on my blog about making your own breastfeeding and baby items. I added a link back to your post for nursing pads. You can find it here http://natural-beginnings.blogspot.com/2012/01/thrifty-diy-projects.html#.TyALi6Wm_LU. Keep up the good work!
I made 4 pairs of nursing pads using 3 layers cut from receiving blankets, and 1 layer of fleece. I used a lightweight fleece, and, unfortunately, it doesn’t even slow leaks down. Fleece isn’t very water resistant when it’s pressed between layers of fabric (flannel backing and your shirt). I am going to try PUL today because all of my shirts are getting destroyed from such frequent trips through the washer :-(
I found another idea on the internet before I found this one. Basically it’s a recommendation for the same type of DIY breast pad: 4 layers of flannel, 1 layer of fleece for the leak resistance on your clothing. There was no mention of making a dart so I thought that was an interesting idea. I just cut our 50 pads. :) I know there is a pattern with this posting however, the suggestion from the other site was to trace a CD so that’s what I did…worked perfectly.
Thanks for the information!
I absolutely love these! I used disposable ones with my first son, and it was so hard finding a brand that wasn’t itchy and uncomfortable. I finally found one that was bearable. Besides the discomfort, the price of those are ridiculous! I’m hoping to make some of my own before this next baby makes his appearance.
I shared this tutorial in a collection of my favorite baby tutes too. :)
http://thelittlewaffleflower.blogspot.com/2012/02/baby-on-brain-and-bladder.html
Can’t wait to try these. My daughter is having her first, and I want to help her save money. I hope this helps. Does anyone know where to buy just pain white flannel? JoAnns has everything but plain white, or even cream. Just got some darker cream and planning trying that this week. Thanks!
i found some plain white flannel at Wal-Mart some time last year. if you cant find it there i LOVE fabric.com they have a huge selection. they also carry plain white PUL. and the plain white cotton zorb used in cloth diapers. :) congrats on the new grandbaby!!
[...] pads – there are dozens of tutorials online to make your own breast pads and I’m here to tell you there’s no reason not to. [...]
[...] continue to need them later on in your nursing career. If you are crafty, you could also make these yourself pretty easily using [...]
I tumble dry PUL all the time. Never had a problem with it.
[...] made 6 pads for each little bag that will house them, using this pattern which is a contour pad and molds better to the breast inside the bra. Nursing pads catch those milk [...]
Did you ever post your other tut for breast pads that you mention at the end of this one? Would love to see the different option!
[...] over the disposable ones (and they are much more comfortable). If you are crafty, you can make some of your own with recycled [...]
This may be a stupid question, but how much of the breast are the pads supposed to cover? I just looked at the pattern and they look way too big to me. I have very small breasts, so I’m wondering how much they should cover, so I can modify the size.
Great pattern! I made some with my last baby that were flat but they were really lumpy so I’m going to try these with the dart this time as I’m due with another in ~20 weeks.
One thing I did use as I had a very heavy letdown and would leak through regular pads pretty quickly, was fleece on the back of them. Fleece is water repellant, very soft and very breathable. If you are worried about sing PUL due to chemicals (which I think is extremely low anyhow) or due to breathability fleece is an excellent alternative! Just make sure to use 100% polyester thread if you use PUL or fleece or some other sort of waterproof backing (wool?) as cotton thread will wick the milk through to your shirt.