I have tried and used all kinds of nursing pads from disposable ones from major brands, to store brand disposables, as well as reusable ones. With all three of my babies I have needed to use nursing pads during the first few weeks of nursing. I remember waking at night in the early weeks after having my first baby covered in leaked milk. Once she started sleeping longer stretches overnight I needed pads to protect my bras and clothing even if I wasn't leaking during the day. I haven't needed them as much after the first couple of months, but I know some women leak the entire duration of breastfeeding and need pads for a longer amount of time. While disposable pads can be convenient, reusable ones are more cost effective and of course better for the environment.
When it comes to reusable pads I have had the most luck with bamboo ones. I recently had the chance to try out Mija Nursing Pads. They provided me with a four pack of nursing pads and a gift set of pads plus a laundry bag and travel bag to try out.
Here is some information from Mija about their nursing pads:
AMAZING COMFORT - Made of incredibly soft, super absorbent bamboo which is softer and holds more liquid than traditional cotton pads
The nursing pads are soft, colorful, and thin enough to wear under clothes without bunching up or being noticeable. I am not leaking at five months postpartum so I cannot attest to the absorbency. They seem like they would be great for wearing during the day and possibly overnight depending on how much you leak. I especially like how soft and comfortable they feel. You can purchase a four pack (eight pads) on Amazon for a little over $10.
Reusable Organic Bamboo Nursing Pads (10 Pack) With Laundry Bag & Travel Wet Bag by Mija
The gift set is an attractive set that would make a wonderful baby shower gift. This set comes with ten pads total, a mesh laundry bag for washing the pads, and a travel wet bag which is a great idea. I never thought of using a wet bag for nursing pads but it makes sense to carry something to put used pads in. I really love this set and it can also be found on Amazon.
The pads alone or the gift set make a great baby shower gift for a breastfeeding mother. Most women who nurse will need pads at some point. Reusable pads are great to have on hand since disposable ones can end up costing more in the long run and are not as eco friendly.
Please let me know if you have any questions about these pads or nursing pads in general.