Reusable makeup remover pads have one obvious claim: they're better for the environment. But before you make any swap to your skincare routine, the real question is whether they perform as well — or better — than what you're already using. Here's the honest comparison.
At a Glance
| Factor | Reusable Pads (LastRound) | Disposable Cotton Rounds |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $28–35 for a set of 7 | $3–6 per 100 pads |
| Cost over 2 years | $28–35 (one purchase) | $28–50+ (ongoing) |
| Waste generated | ~1 set per 1,750 uses | 1 pad per use = 1,750 pads |
| Makeup removal | Equal to better | Effective |
| Texture | Soft + textured side for light exfoliation | Flat, fibrous, can pill on lashes |
| Hygiene | Hygienic with weekly wash at 60°C | No residual bacteria concern |
| Travel-friendly | Compact case holds all 7 pads | Bulky packaging, pads can spill |
| Refills needed | No (or optional) | Constant repurchase |
Performance: Does a Reusable Pad Actually Remove Makeup?
Yes — and in many cases better than disposable alternatives. Here's why:
Texture: Reusable pads made from cotton-lyocell blends (like LastRound) have a naturally textured surface that grips and lifts makeup rather than smearing it. Flat disposable cotton rounds tend to push product around more, particularly with heavy mascara.
Absorbency: The fibre structure in quality reusable pads holds more micellar water or cleansing oil than a flat cotton round, meaning fewer passes needed to remove the same amount of product.
No linting: Cheap cotton rounds leave white fibres on lashes and brows. Reusable pads with a tighter weave don't lint.
The one honest caveat: the first few uses of a new reusable pad can feel slightly different as the fibres soften. By the second machine wash, most people report they prefer the reusable option for daily use.
Cost: The Numbers Over Time
Most people use 1–3 cotton rounds per day. At an average cost of $0.04 per pad (a $4 box of 100), that's roughly $14–$44 per year on disposable pads.
A set of 7 LastRound pads costs approximately $28–35 and lasts the equivalent of 1,750 single uses — roughly 3–5 years of daily use before replacement. The payback period is typically under 2 years, and the pads save significantly more beyond that.
The more make-up you remove daily, the faster the maths favours the reusable option.
Environmental Impact
Cotton is one of the most water-intensive crops in the world. A single 5g cotton round requires approximately 20 litres of water to produce. Multiply that by 1,750 rounds — the equivalent of one LastRound set's lifespan — and the water footprint of disposable pads is staggering.
A set of 7 LastRound pads replaces 1,750 single-use cotton rounds, eliminating both the production waste and the end-of-life waste (most cotton rounds go to landfill, not compost).
This is covered in more detail in our article on the waste from makeup removal.
Hygiene: Is There a Real Difference?
The hygiene concern with reusable pads is legitimate — but manageable. A reusable pad that is rinsed after each use and machine washed weekly at 60°C is effectively clean. Disposable pads have no reuse hygiene issue, but they're not sterile — they contain chemical residues from production.
Full breakdown: Are reusable makeup pads hygienic?
The Verdict
For everyday makeup removal, reusable pads match or outperform disposable cotton rounds in every practical category except upfront convenience. The routine adjustment (rinse + weekly wash) is small. The savings — financial and environmental — are significant over time.
If you remove makeup daily, the switch to reusable makeup pads is one of the most straightforward sustainable swaps available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do reusable makeup pads remove waterproof mascara?
Yes, with the right micellar water or oil-based cleanser — the same products you'd use with disposable pads. The pad itself is not the limiting factor; your cleanser's formulation determines how well waterproof makeup is removed.
Can I use reusable makeup pads with toner?
Yes. Reusable cotton pads work well with liquid toners. The absorbency is similar to disposable cotton rounds. Use the smooth side for toner application.
Are all reusable makeup pads the same?
No. Material matters. Cotton-lyocell blends (like LastRound) are softer and more durable than pure bamboo or pure cotton alternatives. Size, weave, and washing instructions vary by brand. Our guide to the best reusable makeup remover pads covers what to look for.
Do reusable makeup pads stain?
Heavy makeup like mascara and pigmented lipstick can leave faint cosmetic stains over time. These don't affect performance or hygiene. Micellar water soaking before washing usually removes them.
Shop LastRound — the reusable makeup remover pad set →
Related: How to clean reusable makeup pads · How many uses do reusable makeup pads last?