A multifunctional nursing pad for lactating mothers

Lactating mothers commonly use nursing pads to prevent milk from leaking and avoid staining their clothes. This research aims to develop a nursing pad that consists of a dual-layer structure: viscose fabric with three different grams per square meter (GSM) as an absorbent inner layer and a polyethylene laminated outer layer to provide barrier properties. The developed composite was further treated with varying concentrations (5%,10%, and 15%) of an antimicrobial finish to protect against skin infections and odor caused by the milk. Afterward, the composite was subjected to 5 and 10 washing cycles. Key performance parameters including water absorbency, hydrostatic head, antibacterial activity, odor evaluation, air permeability, and relative hand value were evaluated before and after washing cycles. The results demonstrate that the developed nursing pad provides all the essential features required for optimal performance.