Buyers often ask whether they should buy a cellulose pad or a honeycomb pad, assuming they are different products. They are not.
Are cellulose and honeycomb pads the same?
Yes. They describe one product from two angles:
- Cellulose = the raw material (resin-treated kraft cellulose paper).
- Honeycomb = the shape — the glued corrugations form a honeycomb-like cross-section.
So "cellulose honeycomb cooling pad" is the full, correct name. Any supplier selling one is selling the other.
How does it compare to older pad types?
| Pad type | Cooling efficiency | Life | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cellulose / honeycomb | 80–90% | 3–5 years | Low |
| Aspen (wood wool) | 60–70% | 1 season | High |
| Grass / khus | 50–60% | 1 season | Very high |
The honeycomb structure exposes far more wet surface to the passing air, which is why it cools better and lasts years instead of months. Learn how it is built in our cooling pad manufacturing process guide.
What is the pad actually made of?
The base is kraft cellulose paper, dipped in a water-resistant resin on a resin machine so it can stay wet for years without falling apart. The treated paper is then corrugated, glued and cut into pads.
Should you make or buy?
If you use a few pads a year, buy them. If you supply coolers, poultry farms or HVAC installers, manufacturing is far more profitable — see our cooling pad business guide and machine price guide, or talk to our team about a starter line.