Reusable makeup remover pads are washable fabric rounds or cloths that replace disposable cotton pads. They cut down on bathroom waste, and over time they save money. They are also something that touches your eyes and face every day, so the material you choose and the way you wash them both matter.
What this guide is based on
Materials and care methods are compared using typical fabric properties, makers' care instructions and general hygiene advice. We did not test individual pads.
Types
| Type | Used with | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric rounds | Micellar water, toner, cleanser | The direct replacement for cotton pads |
| Microfibre cloths or mitts | Water alone, or with cleanser | Remove a lot of makeup with water; texture can be too much for sensitive skin |
| Muslin or washcloth cloths | Cleansing balms and creams | Used damp to wipe away cleanser |
| Konjac sponges | Water, or cleanser | Plant fiber; gentle; shorter life |
Materials compared
| Material | Feel | Absorbency | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton (terry or washcloth) | Soft; slightly textured | High | Most skin; toner and micellar water |
| Bamboo viscose (often velour) | Very soft, plush | High | Sensitive skin; the eye area |
| Cotton-bamboo blends | Soft | High | Everyday use |
| Microfibre (polyester) | Fine, grippy | Moderate | Removing makeup with water; not for very sensitive skin |
| Hemp blends | Firmer | High | People who like some texture |
Many pads have two sides: a smooth, velvety side for the eyes, and a loop or terry side for the rest of the face.
What to look for
- Softness. Especially for the eye area.
- Size. Larger rounds, of 7 to 10 cm, cover more and are easier to hold.
- Thickness. Two or three layers hold liquid without soaking through.
- Stitching. Secure edges that will not fray.
- Color. Dark or patterned pads hide stains. White shows whether they are truly clean.
- A mesh laundry bag, to keep them together in the wash.
- Enough pads. A set of 14 to 20 lets you use a fresh one or two each day between washes.
How to use them
- Wash new pads before first use.
- Wet the pad with water, or with your remover. A dampened pad needs less product than a dry one.
- Press it on the area for a few seconds, especially over eye makeup, then wipe gently. Do not rub. See How to Remove Eye Makeup Gently.
- Use a fresh pad, or a clean side, for each eye.
- Follow with your usual cleanser.
They work with micellar water and liquid removers. With a cleansing balm, a larger cloth is easier. See Micellar Water vs Cleansing Balm: Key Differences.
How to wash them
Clean pads matter. A damp pad full of makeup and skin oil is a good home for bacteria.
- Rinse straight after use under warm running water, with a drop of soap, and squeeze out the makeup.
- Let it dry, or put it in the mesh bag in an airy place. Do not leave wet pads bunched in a closed container.
- Machine wash in the mesh bag with your regular laundry, at the temperature on the care label. Warm to hot, around 40 to 60°C, removes oil and makeup best.
- Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent, if your skin is sensitive.
- Skip fabric softener. It coats the fibers, reduces absorbency and can irritate skin.
- Dry completely, in the air or in a clothes dryer, if the label allows.
Wash them at least every few days, and always use a clean pad on your eyes.
Dealing with stains
Mascara and foundation often leave marks. Stains are not a hygiene problem, if the pad has been washed properly.
- Pre-treat with a little soap or stain remover, and rub the fabric against itself.
- Soak in warm, soapy water before washing.
- Dry in sunlight, which lightens some stains.
- Choose darker colors next time.
When to replace them
Good pads last for many months to a few years. Replace them when they:
- Become thin, rough or stiff.
- Fray, or come apart at the seams.
- Keep an odor after washing.
- Show any sign of mold.
Replace them at once after an eye infection.
Reusable or disposable?
| Reusable pads | Disposable cotton pads | |
|---|---|---|
| Waste | Very little | A pad or more a day |
| Cost over time | Lower | Higher |
| Convenience | Need washing | Throw away |
| Hygiene | Excellent, if washed and dried properly | Fresh every time |
| Texture | Soft, thicker | Thin; can shed fibers |
| Travel | Need a bag for used pads | Simple |
Disposable pads remain the practical choice during an eye infection, when laundry is not possible, or for removing nail polish.
Hygiene rules
- Do not share pads.
- Do not reuse a pad the next day without washing.
- Keep clean pads in a dry, covered container, away from the splash zone of the sink. See Makeup Hygiene: How to Store and Handle Products.
- Wash the mesh bag, too.
The same rinse, dry and replace habits apply to washcloths and sponges. See How to Clean Loofahs, Washcloths, and Shower Brushes. For removing long-wear lip color, see How to Remove Long-Lasting Lipstick.
Related on ArniSun
- How to Remove Eye Makeup Gently
- Micellar Water vs Cleansing Balm: Key Differences
- How to Remove Long-Lasting Lipstick
- How to Clean Loofahs, Washcloths, and Shower Brushes
- Makeup Hygiene: How to Store and Handle Products
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Are reusable makeup remover pads hygienic?
Yes, as long as each pad is washed after use, dried fully and stored in a clean, dry place. Use a fresh pad for your eyes each time.
How do I wash reusable makeup pads?
Rinse them after use, then machine wash in a mesh bag at the temperature on the label, without fabric softener, and dry them completely.
How many reusable pads do I need?
About 14 to 20 allows one or two fresh pads a day, with a wash every week or so.