The market for reusable makeup remover pads has expanded significantly in the last few years. That's a good thing — but it also means there's more variation in quality. Some pads are soft but not durable. Some are durable but rough on skin. Some are marketed as eco-friendly but made from materials that don't biodegrade or wear quickly.
Here's what actually matters when choosing reusable makeup remover pads — and what we prioritised when we designed LastRound.
What to Look For
1. Material
The material determines texture, absorbency, durability, and how the pad interacts with your skin.
- Cotton-lyocell blend (like LastRound): Soft, moisture-wicking, naturally antibacterial properties due to lyocell's fibre structure. Washes well, holds shape. Our preferred material for daily use.
- Pure organic cotton: Soft, widely available, compostable. Slightly less durable than blended fabrics. Good for sensitive skin.
- Bamboo: Naturally soft and fast-drying. Quality varies significantly by brand. Check that the bamboo certification is genuine (FSC or OEKO-TEX).
- Microfibre: Highly effective at removing makeup without product, but made from synthetic fibres that shed microplastics in the wash. We don't recommend it for eco-conscious users.
- Terry/towelling: Good for heavy-duty use. Slightly more abrasive — can irritate sensitive skin if used with pressure.
Bottom line: For most people, a natural or blended natural fabric (cotton, lyocell, or organic cotton) is the best choice. Avoid microfibre if sustainability is a priority.
2. Texture
The best pads have at least two sides: a smooth side for applying toner or gentle cleansers, and a textured side for removing makeup and gentle exfoliation. This dual texture means one pad covers more of your daily routine.
Avoid pads that are uniformly flat — they're less versatile and tend to smear rather than lift makeup.
3. Size
Standard round size (approximately 7–8cm diameter) works for most uses. Larger pads (10–12cm) are better for full-face cleansing and removing heavier makeup. Some brands, including LastRound, offer size variants — the LastRound Large is designed for full-face and body use.
4. Washing System
The best sets include a mesh laundry bag. Without one, the pads tangle in the wash, snag on other items, and lose shape faster. It sounds minor, but the bag is what makes the weekly wash genuinely effortless rather than a chore.
Also check: what temperature can the pads be washed at? 60°C is the hygiene standard for towels and face cloths. Pads that can only be washed at 30°C are harder to keep genuinely clean.
5. Set Size and Case
A set of 7 is ideal for daily use — one pad per day before the weekly machine wash. A case that holds all 7 keeps them organised, protects them during travel, and prevents them from scattering around your bathroom drawer.
6. Certifications
Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification on the materials. This means the pad has been tested for over 100 harmful substances and is safe for skin contact. For bamboo, FSC certification confirms the bamboo is sustainably sourced.
LastRound: Our Approach
When we designed LastRound, the two non-negotiables were: it had to remove makeup as effectively as a disposable cotton round, and it had to last long enough to make the upfront cost worthwhile.
The result: a set of 7 pads in a cotton-lyocell blend, dual-sided, machine washable at 60°C, rated for 200+ washes, stored in a compact reusable case. Each set replaces approximately 1,750 single-use cotton rounds.
The range includes three versions for different uses:
- LastRound Original — everyday use, all skin types, standard size
- LastRound Beauty — precise makeup application and removal, slightly firmer texture
- LastRound Large — full-face cleansing and body care
All are available at lastobject.com/products/lastround.
What to Avoid
- Microfibre pads: Shed microplastics with every wash — undermines the sustainability purpose.
- Pads with no wash temperature guidance: If a brand doesn't tell you how hot you can wash them, assume the material degrades at higher temperatures.
- Sets with no storage: Loose pads without a case or bag are a practical hassle and degrade faster.
- "Bamboo" pads with no certification: Bamboo-derived fabrics vary enormously in quality. Without OEKO-TEX or FSC certification, claims of sustainability are unverifiable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reusable makeup pads worth it?
Yes, for most daily makeup wearers. The upfront cost pays back within 12–18 months in most cases, and the performance is equal to or better than disposable cotton rounds. Full breakdown: reusable vs disposable makeup pads comparison.
How many reusable makeup pads do I need?
7 pads is the sweet spot for daily use — one pad per day, then machine wash weekly. Fewer than 5 means you'll need to wash mid-week. More than 9 adds bulk without much benefit unless multiple people are using the same set.
Can I use reusable makeup pads with micellar water?
Yes. Micellar water works well with reusable pads and is actually one of the most effective cleansers for removing mascara from fabric — soak the pad in micellar water for a few minutes before washing to dissolve stubborn stains.
Do reusable makeup pads exfoliate skin?
Gently, on the textured side. The texture provides mild physical exfoliation similar to a gentle washcloth. It's not a substitute for a dedicated exfoliating treatment, but regular use contributes to a smoother skin surface.
Shop LastRound → · Browse all reusable makeup remover options →
Related: How to clean reusable makeup pads · Are reusable makeup pads hygienic?