Wool suits parents who want a lanolin-rich, breathable pad. Bamboo suits parents who want a lighter pad that is simpler to machine-wash. Adorling carries wool only (LANACare organic merino), so we can describe bamboo only in general terms.
Short on time? For most people, start with two pairs of LANACare Softline wool nursing pads ($49.99) in size Small, which fits most bras. If you already own wool and want to care for it properly, pick up LANACare Lanolin-Replenishing Wool Wash ($32.99). Comparing reusable with disposable on cost? Read wool vs disposable nursing pads.
Quick comparison
The wool column uses LANACare product facts. The bamboo column is what is typical of the category, not a specific product, because we do not sell bamboo pads. Check the label on any bamboo pad you buy.
| Wool (LANACare Softline) | Bamboo (typical of the category) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price at Adorling | $49.99 for Softline | Not sold at Adorling |
| Fibre | Organic merino wool, interwoven. Lanolin-rich and soft. | Bamboo-derived fibre, often blended with cotton or another fibre |
| Moisture handling | Wicks moisture away from the skin and stays breathable | Usually soft and absorbent. Some have a waterproof backing, which can hold moisture against the skin. |
| Thickness | Regular about 1/3 in, Extra about 5/8 in | Varies by brand. Often thin and light, sometimes layered. |
| Washing and care | Air between feeds. Hand-wash only when needed with wool wash, then lay flat to dry. | Often machine-washable. Follow the care label. |
Choose wool if: you want a natural, breathable pad with gentle warmth and you do not mind a different wash routine. Choose bamboo if: you want something lighter that goes in the regular laundry. Bamboo is the simpler one to wash, and that matters when you are tired.
Why wool, not cotton or disposable?
Most nursing pads hold moisture against your skin until you change them. Merino wool behaves differently. It wicks moisture away from the skin and stays breathable, so it tends to feel dry and warm rather than damp and cold.
Three things parents notice most:
- Soft, lanolin-rich wool. LANACare wool keeps its natural lanolin, which is what makes it feel soft against the skin.
- Gentle warmth. Wool gives mild, even warmth and stays comfortable as you move between warm and cool rooms.
- Few pairs needed. Most parents need only 2 to 3 pairs in total. Not sure? See how many nursing pads you need.
Nursing pads are a comfort product. If you have nipple pain, cracked skin, a hot or sore area on the breast, or a fever, speak to a lactation consultant or your doctor.
LANACare Softline: Regular or Extra?
| Softline Regular | Softline Extra | |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | About 1/3 in, soft and easily compressed | About 5/8 in, for added absorbency |
| Best for | Everyday wear, light to moderate leaking | Heavier leaking or overnight |
| Under clothing | Least visible | A little more visible |
Choose Regular if: you want a discreet everyday pad. Choose Extra if: you leak heavily or want more absorbency at night.
Sizes can sell out. If the one you want is unavailable, message us and we will let you know when it is back. You can also browse the nursing pads and breast care collection.
Choosing your size
Smaller sizes are discreet under a bra for light leaking. Larger sizes give fuller coverage. When in doubt, choose Small.
| Size | Diameter |
|---|---|
| Mini | 9 cm (3.5 in) |
| X-Small | 12 cm (5 in) |
| Small | 15 cm (6 in) |
| Medium | 18 cm (7 in) |
| Large | 22 cm (9 in) |
| Oval (teardrop) | 18 x 27 cm (7 x 11 in) |
Extra-thickness versions come in X-Small, Small and Medium.
How to wash wool nursing pads
This is where wool differs most from bamboo. You wash it less often, and not the way you would wash cotton.
- Most of the time, air them. Hang pads out between feeds.
- When they need washing, hand-wash gently in lukewarm water with LANACare Lanolin-Replenishing Wool Wash. It is made with 7.5% medical-grade lanolin and is designed to replenish the wool's lanolin as it cleans.
- Lay flat to dry. Do not wring them out.
- Skip hot water, regular detergent and the dryer. They are hard on merino fibres.
Special cases
- Counting the cost? See wool vs disposable nursing pads.
- Want a skin cream to use between feeds? LANACare Lanolin Cream ($30.99) is a soft, unscented lanolin cream made for breastfeeding parents. You do not need to wash it off before nursing.
- Sore or cracked nipples? Pads will not sort that out. Talk to a lactation consultant or your doctor.
- Set on bamboo? That is a fair choice. We do not carry it, so check the care label and fibre content of whichever brand you buy.
Common questions
Are wool or bamboo nursing pads better?
Neither is better for everyone. Wool is lanolin-rich, breathable and moisture-wicking, while bamboo is typically lighter and easier to machine-wash.
How do you wash wool nursing pads?
Air them between feeds. When they need washing, hand-wash in lukewarm water with a lanolin wool wash and lay them flat to dry.
How many reusable nursing pads do I need?
Most parents need 2 to 3 pairs in total, so one pair can be in use while another is airing or drying.
Do nursing pads help with sore nipples or leaking?
Pads absorb leaks and add comfort, but they are not a treatment. If you have nipple pain, a lot of leaking that worries you, or any fever or sore area on the breast, speak to a lactation consultant or your doctor.
Still not sure?
If you want a breathable, lanolin-rich pad, wool is a solid pick, and two pairs of Softline Regular in Small plus wool wash covers most parents. Adorling is an authorized Canadian retailer, every product is genuine and warrantied, and shipping is free across Canada.