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Poly-fill. I also use the Fluval sponges that are meant for canisters I believe. You can cut them to size and a two pack is about $3. Although you shouldn't have to be replacing the filter cartridges periodically to where the cost becomes a nuisance.
Well.. you can buy the bigger pads and just cut out the size you need for your filter. But 1 cartridge should last you a long time, because you shouldn't need to replace it until it's practically falling apart.