Common nursing-pad diameters range from about 3.5 inches up to 8.5 inches, with many options around 3.75, 4, 4.5, 4.72, and 5 inches.

Thickness varies by type: very thin profiles (about 0.25–0.3 inches), mid-thickness options (around 1 to 1.75 inches), and metric listings such as 40 millimeters or 0.5 centimeters.

Care varies by pad type. Washable pads often allow machine washing (some recommend a mesh wash bag and are dryer-friendly); others suggest hand wash or spot cleaning. Gel/hydrogel pads usually advise avoiding soaps or detergents and may be single-use or discarded after the recommended wear time.

Some nursing pads list OEKO-TEX Standard 100 fabric testing certifications. Other items explicitly state they have no listed certifications.

Features that improve stay-in-place performance include contoured or curved shapes, anti-slip outer layers, seamless designs, and contoured fits that mold to the breast to reduce slipping and bunching under clothing.