Bambaw Reusable Cotton Pads Review

Dumping Disposable: Why I Switched to Reusable Makeup Remover

Let’s face it: every time we grab a disposable cotton pad, we add to the mounting waste in landfills. It’s time to break free from this cycle of one-time use! Those single-use pads are barely used for a few seconds before they’re tossed away, causing unnecessary waste.

Also, do you know that according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), cotton production practices can have detrimental environmental impacts? Conventional methods often involve excessive water usage and the heavy application of pesticides. 

However, this does not mean you must give up on using cotton altogether, as it is present in many daily items. By embracing reusable cotton pads, you have the power to reduce your overall cotton consumption. 

Key Features

Bambaw reusable cotton pads come in two types: exfoliating terry pads and soft velvet pads. 

The terry pads are designed to exfoliate the skin, remove skin masks, or deal with heavier makeup. 

On the other hand, the soft velvet pads are perfect for removing light makeup, cleansing the skin, and using them in sensitive areas like the eyes.

Materials

These materials are used to make the pads:

• Terry pads: 80% bamboo viscose, 20% cotton
• Velvet pads: 60% bamboo viscose, 20% polyester, 20% cotton

Regrettably, the velvet pads are not biodegradable due to the presence of polyester. However, the terry pads are an exception as they do not contain polyester, making them biodegradable. 

While it’s disappointing that the velvet pads are less environmentally friendly, it’s important to note that using reusable velvet pads for years still results in significantly less waste than single-use items. 

Durability

How long will the cotton pads last? Well, I’ve been using them for a few months and washing them in the machine, and I’m happy to say they’re still in a great shape. 

Bambaw says you can use them around 300 times before they wear out. That’s pretty amazing. These pads are built to last. They can withstand repeated use and washing without losing their effectiveness or shape.

Comes with a 100% Cotton Mesh Bag

For added convenience, the pads also come with a cotton mesh bag. This makes it a breeze to store and transport them wherever you go.

Why Use Bamboo Makeup Pads?

Below are the reasons why I love Bambaw reusable cotton pads.

The Pads are Incredibly Soft

The velvet pads are extra gentle, making them ideal for sensitive skin. I’ve tried various brands of reusable pads before, but they were rough and overly exfoliating on my skin. 

That’s why I switched to Bambaw reusable cotton pads, and I couldn’t be happier with how good they are for my skin.

Excellent Absorbency

I’ve also found that Bambaw pads are super absorbent, which makes them great for applying makeup remover or toner to your skin. 

They soak up the liquid easily, making it effortless to rub it onto your skin.

Made from Highly Sustainable Bamboo Cotton

The Bambaw reusable cotton pads are mainly made from bamboo cotton, a more sustainable choice than regular cotton. 

Bamboo cotton is highly sustainable because bamboo grows quickly without the need for pesticides or fertilizers. 

Versatility

Bamboo makeup pads are incredibly versatile and can be used in your beauty routine for various purposes. 

They are perfect for removing makeup, applying toners, serums, or any other skincare products you use.

They can also be used for removing nail polish.

Close-up of Soft Velvet Pad

Close-up of Scrub Terry Pad

The Cons of Bambaw Cotton Rounds

These are a few aspects of Bambaw reusable cotton pads that I found lacking and could have been improved.

Staining

It’s important to note that because the makeup pads are white, they can get stained when removing certain types of makeup. Bambaw recommends soaking the pads in a mixture of lemon and vinegar for an hour. 

While this method usually works well, it’s good to know that even if some stains remain, they won’t affect the pads’ performance. You can continue using them as usual, knowing any lingering stains won’t be a problem.

Requires Extra Care and Maintenance

Bamboo pads require additional care and maintenance compared to disposable cotton pads. Unlike the convenience of tossing disposable pads into the bin after use, bamboo pads can be machine washed and reused. 

Bambaw suggests air drying instead of using a dryer to maintain their quality. This extra maintenance process may be less convenient for those who prefer quick and easy upkeep. However, the benefits outweigh the inconvenience. By reusing the pads, you contribute to less waste and enjoy the long-term cost savings.

Initial Cost

One of the main reasons people prefer single-use items, besides their convenience, is their lower cost. Disposable cotton pads are usually cheaper than reusable ones, making them more appealing to those on a tight budget. 

However, it’s important to look at the bigger picture. While reusable pads may cost more upfront, they are designed to last for years. This means you won’t have to keep buying disposable pads, saving you money in the long term. 

How to Care for Your Makeup Pad

Initial Use

Before you start using your pads, it’s recommended to give them a gentle wash. This helps make them softer and more absorbent. 

Rinsing

Bambaw recommends using their pads multiple times before washing them. To keep them clean, just rinse them with warm water and soap. I only reuse them this way after using toner. 

For makeup removal, I use each pad only once before washing. Remember to rinse the pads after removing makeup to prevent staining before putting them in the washing machine. 

These easy steps help keep the pads clean and make them last longer.

Washing

Washing your pads is easy. Just put them in the washing machine on a regular 40-degree cycle, but remember to use the cotton mesh bag provided. 

I learned this the hard way when I didn’t use the mesh bag the first time, and some pads got stuck in the seals of the washing machine door, resulting in them not being washed properly. Using the mesh bag ensures all the pads get washed thoroughly.

Drying

To keep your cotton pads in top shape, it’s best to let them air-dry after washing. Using a tumble dryer can cause them to shrink. 

So, just lay them out to dry naturally in the air. This ensures your pads stay in good condition and are ready for your next use.

Smart Hack: Pre-Dampen Your Pad!

Here’s a great tip to help you save on your makeup remover or toner. When using dry cotton pads, most of the product gets soaked up, leading to wasteful usage.

To prevent this, dampen the pad with water, squeeze the extra moisture, and apply your product. By doing this, you’ll use just the right amount without wasting any excess.

Final Verdict

Bambaw reusable cotton pads have impressed me with their softness, absorbency, and versatility. They are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for reusable cotton rounds.

Now, it’s your turn to share your thoughts! Have you tried Bambaw cotton pads or other brands? I’d love to hear your experiences, ideas, and questions. Leave a comment below, and let’s start a conversation. 

Together, we can positively impact and inspire others to adopt sustainable beauty practices.