When Your Pad Won’t Stick to Your Underwear (Here Are the Solutions)

Pads are kept in place, thanks to their sticky adhesive. However, the adhesives tend to weaken, causing the pad to lose its stickiness.

This often happens when the adhesive is exposed to moisture or when the pad isn’t properly placed. The good news is that you can do things when your pad doesn’t stick.

In this blog post, I will discuss the causes of a weakened adhesive and solutions for your pad losing its stickiness.

5 Factors That Can Cause Pads to Lose Their Adhesive Quality

1. Moisture

Excessive moisture, whether from sweating or heavy flow, can weaken the adhesive on the back of the pad. When the pad comes into contact with moisture, it may not adhere securely to your underwear, leading to potential movement and discomfort.

2. Fabric texture

The texture of certain fabrics, such as lace or silky materials, can create a slippery surface that makes it difficult for the pad’s adhesive to grip onto the fabric. This can result in the pad shifting or coming loose.

3. Improper application

Applying the pad incorrectly can also contribute to adhesive issues. If the pad is not aligned properly or there are wrinkles or folds, it may not adhere well to your underwear. This can cause the pad to shift or detach during movement.

4. Poor quality adhesive

Some pads may have inferior adhesive quality, which can result in decreased stickiness and a higher likelihood of the pad not staying in place. Choosing pads from reputable brands known for their reliable adhesion is important.

5. Environmental factors

Environmental conditions such as high humidity or excessive heat can affect the adhesive properties of pads. These conditions may cause the adhesive to weaken or lose its stickiness, making it more challenging for the pad to stay securely in place.

5 Ways to Fix Pads That Fails To Stick To Your Underwear

1. Reposition the pad

If you notice your pad starting to come unstuck, find a private restroom or discreet area to reposition it. Gently lift and adjust the pad to ensure it sits securely against your underwear. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds that may have formed, and press it firmly onto the fabric to help it adhere better.

2. Use double-sided tape

Keep a small supply of double-sided tape in your bag or purse for emergencies. If your pad’s adhesive is failing, you can use double-sided tape to reinforce the bond between the pad and your underwear.

Place a small strip of tape on each side of the pad, ensuring it adheres to both the pad and the fabric of your underwear.

3. Panty liner as backup

If you frequently experience pad adhesion issues, consider wearing a panty liner as a backup. Panty liners are smaller and thinner than regular pads, but they can provide additional protection and help keep your underwear clean if the main pad comes unstuck.

4. Carry spare pads

Having spare pads with you when you’re out and about is always a good idea. If your pad loses its adhesive quality and cannot be salvaged, you can discreetly change to a fresh pad for continued protection.

Keep a few extra pads in your bag or locker to ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situations.

5. Choose different brands or styles

If you consistently experience issues with pads not sticking properly, it might be worth trying different brands or styles of pads. Different pads have varying adhesive qualities, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Experiment with different options until you find a pad that provides reliable adhesion throughout the day.

Can Poor Storage Affect the Stickiness of Pad Adhesive?

Yes, poor storage can affect the stickiness of pad adhesive. The adhesive on the back of pads is designed to adhere securely to the fabric of your underwear. However, certain storage conditions can compromise its effectiveness.

Here are some ways poor storage can impact pad adhesive:

1. Exposure to moisture

Moisture can weaken the adhesive and cause it to lose its stickiness. The adhesive may become less effective if pads are stored in a humid environment or come into contact with water or moisture. Storing pads in a dry place is essential to maintain their adhesive quality.

2. Extreme temperatures

Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, such as excessive heat or cold, can impact the adhesive’s performance. High temperatures can soften or melt the adhesive, while low temperatures can make it brittle or less sticky.

Avoid storing pads in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations to preserve their adhesive properties.

3. Dust and lint accumulation

Dust, lint, and other particles can accumulate on the adhesive surface over time, reducing its stickiness. Storing pads in a clean and dust-free environment can help maintain the integrity of the adhesive.

How to properly store pads to maintain their stickiness

To ensure the stickiness of pad adhesive is not compromised by poor storage, consider the following tips:

• Store pads in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep them in their original packaging or in a clean, sealed container.
• Avoid storing pads near sources of heat or humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchen areas.
• Check the pads’ expiration date and use them within the recommended timeframe.
• If you notice any changes in the adhesive quality or if the pads do not stick properly, consider replacing them with fresh ones.

How to Properly Stick a Pad  To an Underwear

To properly stick a pad to your underwear, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right placement

Position the pad in the center of your underwear, aligning it with your vaginal opening. Ensure the wider part of the pad faces the front and the narrower part is towards the back.

2. Remove the paper backing

Most pads come with a paper backing that covers the adhesive side. Peel off the paper backing carefully, ensuring that the adhesive remains intact.

3. Press firmly

Hold the pad by the wings or the back of the pad, and with the adhesive side down, place it on the center of your underwear. Press down firmly along the entire length of the pad, ensuring that it adheres securely to the fabric.

4. Smooth out any wrinkles

Smooth out any wrinkles or creases on the pad by running your hand over it. This helps to ensure proper coverage and a comfortable fit.

5. Secure the Wings (If Applicable)

If the pad has wings, fold them over the sides of your underwear and press them down to secure them in place. The wings help to provide extra protection and prevent leakage.

6. Adjust for comfort

Adjust the pad to ensure it feels comfortable once the pad is securely in place. You may need to shift the position slightly to achieve the desired fit.

Do pads stick to skin or underwear?

Pads are designed to stick to your underwear, not directly to your skin. The adhesive on the back of the pad is meant to securely attach the pad to the fabric of your underwear, providing a reliable and comfortable fit.

Why are sanitary pads not sticking to my underwear?

One possible reason is inadequate surface contact. If the adhesive side of the pad does not have full contact with the fabric of your underwear, it may not adhere properly.

Conclusion

Properly sticking a pad to your underwear is essential for a comfortable and leak-free experience. Factors such as poor storage, moisture, and movement can affect the adhesive quality of pads, causing them to come unstuck during the day.

However, there are quick fixes available to address this issue, such as using double-sided tape or applying a fresh adhesive strip. It’s important to choose the right placement for the pad, press it firmly onto the underwear, and smooth out any wrinkles.