Kotex Pads: Real Experiences from UK Women
For many women in the UK, period care begins with something familiar and accessible: pads. While menstrual cups, tampons, and period underwear have all grown in popularity, pads remain the most widely used product, especially among teens and women who prefer external protection.
One of the most established pad brands on UK supermarket and pharmacy shelves is Kotex. Known for its variety - from ultra-thin liners to overnight maxi pads - and for its affordable pricing, Kotex has built a loyal customer base. The brand also promotes a commitment to comfort, softness, and in recent years, more eco-friendly packaging.
But what do real women actually think of Kotex pads? Online discussions reveal a wide spectrum of experiences. For some, Kotex pads are comfortable, reliable, and gentle. For others, they cause irritation, allergic-type reactions, or frustration with adhesive quality.
This article brings together authentic experiences from women in the UK, shared on forums and social platforms, to provide a balanced look at what using Kotex pads is really like. Alongside these stories, we include a pharmacist’s perspective on safety and alternatives for those who struggle with standard pads.
Why People Choose Kotex
Kotex is often chosen for a simple reason: it’s everywhere. Available in high street chains like Boots, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s, Kotex products are easy to find and budget-friendly compared to premium or organic pad brands.
The brand offers different options: pads with wings, ultra-thin day pads, and longer overnight pads for heavier flow. Many women first encounter Kotex during their teens, when accessibility and cost matter most.
"The pads I find most comfortable are Kotex. They have wings that fold under underwear properly. Very comfortable, most of the time I can’t feel I’m wearing it." -u/just_anonymouschick
This kind of comment reflects why Kotex maintains popularity: it ticks the boxes of availability, comfort, and price.
Comfort and Absorbency – Positive Experiences
For many users, Kotex delivers on its promises. Comfort and softness are frequently praised, with women describing the pads as reliable during both normal and heavy flow days.
"Kotex pads have the best surface. Soft and cotton-like are how I’d describe all my Kotex." -u/lilaccandyx
Women with heavier periods often highlight the longer overnight pads as a strength. They provide coverage and security at night without chafing, which is a common complaint with bulkier pads.
"Kotex pads are super long which is great for heavy flows… They also never chafe me!" -u/paperyplanes
The cotton-like feel is another point of loyalty. Some women describe Kotex as the only supermarket brand that feels breathable, less plasticky, and more discreet under clothing.
For these users, Kotex pads represent what every pad should ideally be: comfortable, reliable, and barely noticeable once in place.
Negative Experiences – Irritation and Adhesive Issues
But Kotex doesn’t work for everyone. A significant number of women describe irritation, discomfort, or even burning sensations after using the pads.
"Kotex irritated me badly." -u/justamomthings
"My lady bits are having a reaction, it’s a burning sensation and very uncomfortable." -u/throwawaypantyliner
For some, these reactions resemble allergic responses, possibly to adhesives, dyes, or synthetic fibres used in the pads. Women with sensitive skin or conditions like vulvodynia often report heightened discomfort.
Adhesive issues are another repeated complaint. While wings are intended to hold pads in place, some women say the sticky strips damage underwear, rip fabric threads, or leave residue that doesn’t wash out.
"Kotex has now ruined every single pair of underwear I own. It rips at the threads and the adhesive doesn’t come off, not even in the wash." -u/unluckypetal
This type of frustration can turn women away from the brand entirely, as ruined underwear becomes an ongoing cost.
Eco-Friendly Packaging and Design
One area where Kotex has been praised in recent years is its effort to reduce plastic packaging. With growing concern about plastic waste in period products, many consumers are looking for brands that at least make steps toward eco-friendliness.
"Was so pleasantly surprised by the lack of plastic in this new box of pads I just got! Only thin wax paper protects the adhesive. Great job Kotex." -u/sustainableperiod
These design changes resonate with eco-conscious buyers who want to balance personal comfort with sustainability. While Kotex pads themselves are still disposable, the packaging updates suggest the brand is responding to consumer demand for more sustainable solutions.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Because menstrual care is such a personal experience, many women move on from Kotex after negative experiences, seeking alternatives that suit their skin and lifestyle better.
"I had a similar issue with Kotex pads. I switched to Cora cotton pads and they are fantastic. Zero reaction." -u/purelycotton
"I used to use this brand, switched to L and now I use reusable cotton pads. No more irritation or itching." -u/greenperiodchoice
Alternatives mentioned often include:
- Organic cotton pads (brands like Cora, Natracare, L.)
- Reusable cloth pads (washable, soft, and eco-friendly)
- Period underwear (absorbent underwear worn without pads or tampons)
- Menstrual cups (silicone cups worn internally, lasting for years)
These alternatives often appeal to women who experience irritation with mainstream pads or who want to reduce their environmental footprint.
Pharmacist’s Perspective
To provide a professional lens on these experiences, Alessandro Grenci, Superintendent Pharmacist at Medino, offers his advice:
"Kotex pads are safe and widely used, but not every material suits every woman. Irritation can occur from adhesives, fragrances, or synthetic fibres in pads. If you experience discomfort, switch to fragrance-free or organic cotton pads, which are less likely to cause reactions. Reusable products like menstrual cups or period underwear are also good options for sensitive skin and sustainability. It’s important to remember that no pad suits everyone - trial and error is part of finding the right menstrual product."
This perspective reinforces what user stories show: that reactions to pads are highly individual, and switching products is often the best solution if irritation arises.
Conclusion
Kotex pads are widely available, affordable, and for many women, perfectly comfortable and reliable. Their soft, cotton-like surface and variety of formats mean they remain a go-to choice on UK shelves.
But they are not without their downsides. Some women experience irritation, burning, or adhesive issues, while others feel the pads simply don’t suit their body. The brand’s move toward reduced plastic packaging has been welcomed, but for those with sensitive skin, alternatives like organic cotton or reusable products may be a better fit.
The real-world experiences show that period care is deeply personal. No one product works for everyone. What matters most is that women have access to affordable, safe, and varied options - and the confidence to switch if a product isn’t working for them.
For some, Kotex is a trusted staple. For others, it’s just the starting point on the journey toward finding the menstrual care solution that truly feels right.
