Are Reusable Makeup Pads Actually Worth It?

Reusable makeup pads sound straightforward — wash and reuse instead of bin and replace. But the real question is whether they perform as well as the disposable version, whether the extra step of washing is actually minor, and whether the economics stack up. Here is an honest assessment.

Performance: Do They Work as Well?

For most uses — micellar water, toner, liquid exfoliants, makeup remover — yes. The fabric removes product from skin effectively and applies liquid evenly. The textured side on LastRound provides mild mechanical action that can make removal more thorough with less product waste.

The adjustment: reusable pads do not absorb liquid in the same way disposable cotton does. Cotton is highly absorbent, which means it soaks up product quickly. Reusable pads hold product differently — they distribute rather than absorb. The technique that works best is holding the pad against the skin for a few seconds before wiping, rather than immediately dragging. Most people adjust within a few days.

For waterproof mascara specifically: a dedicated remover is more important than the pad type. Waterproof formula resists removal regardless of what you apply it with. With the right product, reusable pads handle it fine.

The Extra Step

The wash cycle adds roughly 5 seconds per week — the time it takes to put the mesh bag in the machine. That is the totality of the extra effort. No hand washing required for routine cleaning.

The trade-off comparison: disposable pads require walking to the bin after each use. Reusable pads go into the used compartment of the case, then into the wash once a week. The total time cost is comparable.

The Economics

Disposable cotton rounds: roughly £1.50–£3 per 100 pads. At two uses per day, that is around £11–£22 per year, every year.

LastRound: around £15 once. Rated to approximately 1,750 uses — roughly 875 days of twice-daily use, or about 2.5 years. Over that period the reusable option costs £15 against £28–£55 in disposables. Over five years, the saving compounds.

The upfront cost is higher; the ongoing cost is zero. The break-even point is around 6–12 months depending on how frequently you use cotton pads.

The Honest Downsides

There are real ones worth naming:

• You have to remember to wash them. If you fall behind on laundry, you can run out. A second set of 7 pads eliminates this problem.
• They can stain. Heavy foundation or mascara may leave a faint tint over time. This does not affect performance but is visible on light-coloured pads. It is cosmetic only.
• The texture is different. Fluffy disposable cotton and woven reusable fabric feel different on skin. Most people find this a minor adjustment; a small number genuinely prefer the feel of cotton and do not switch.

Who It Works Best For

Reusable makeup pads work best if you already do laundry regularly (adding the mesh bag is trivial), if you use pads daily and find yourself going through them quickly, and if performance consistency matters to you — reusable pads do not vary in thickness or absorbency the way cotton pads from different brands can.

They are less ideal if your skincare routine involves heavy daily products that stain (dark self-tanners, dye-based products) and you prefer to discard rather than clean.

Verdict

For most people who use cotton pads regularly: yes, worth it. The performance is comparable with a minor technique adjustment. The extra effort is genuinely minimal. The cost works out cheaper over time. The waste reduction is real and measurable.

For people who use cotton pads occasionally or prefer the feel of fluffy cotton specifically: less clear-cut, and a personal preference call.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do reusable makeup pads last?

LastRound pads are rated to approximately 1,750 uses. With regular washing and proper care, most users find them lasting 2–3 years before any significant degradation in fabric quality.

Do they work with all skincare products?

Yes — micellar water, oil-based removers, toners, liquid exfoliants, serums, and most makeup removers all work with reusable pads. The fabric is compatible with standard skincare formulations.

Are they better for sensitive skin?

We do not claim this — the fabric material has not been tested against disposable cotton for skin sensitivity outcomes. Some people with sensitive skin find woven fabric gentler than synthetic-blend disposable pads, but this varies by individual. If you have known skin sensitivities, check the material composition (Tencel/cellulose) against your known triggers.

Can I use reusable pads as part of a double-cleanse routine?

Yes. Use with oil cleanser first, rinse the pad briefly between cleansers, then use with your second cleanser. The pad handles both steps in one use if pre-rinsed between them.