I use pads because my mom was hospitalized with Toxic Shock Syndrome from leaving it in too long when I was little and it scared me. Also when I leave a tampon in for more than 4-6 hours it starts to feel weird.

Thank you girls so much!! You guys have helped me a lot!

I put a new tampon in right before bed and wear a regular pad and a small liner in the very back to protect against any leakage overnight durin heavy times. I've never had any problems with that method. 

I'm pretty sure tampons are only supposed to be worn got a maximum of 6 hours (correct me if I'm wrong). I use pads and I sleep on a towel during heavy times.