A Guide to Cleaning and Caring for Your Menstrual Underwear
Menstrual underwear can be a convenient, cost effective and eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. But if you're considering giving them a go, it's important to know how to properly care for your menstrual panties to keep them in the best condition. Here’s everything you need to know about how to clean period underwear so that they remain hygienic, safe, and comfortable.
It's as easy as putting them in the washing machine (no softener or bleach) and hang them out to dry! After each use, it's completely up to you whether you rinse out any visible blood first: if you have a heavy flow you may prefer to give your undies a quick rinse under cool water until they run clear before you pop them in the washing machine.
When you’re ready to clean your menstrual underwear, put them in with the rest of your laundry on a cold wash cycle (your other clothes will be fine!) then tumble dry on low or hang them to dry in the sun. That’s it!
OUR TOP TIP: Invest in a Scarlet Laundry Bag to safeguard them during your wash cycle.
Do I need to pre-wash my period underwear?
This one’s totally your call. It’s not necessary to rinse your period undies before putting them in the washing machine, but if you’re a few days away from laundry day or had a heavy flow, you may prefer to give them a good rinse under cold water to prevent staining and bacteria build-up.
Should I wash period underwear on a gentle cycle?
Our period underwear is made with the highest quality materials so it can handle a regular cycle. That said, a gentle cycle is always preferred to prolong the lifespan of your period underwear. Even better, pop them into our Laundry Bag every time you wash to protect them even further.
What water temperature should I wash my period underwear in?
Cold water is best. It is more gentle on the fabrics (so your period undies will last longer) and it helps prevent staining.
How often should I wash my period underwear?
You need to wash your period underwear after each use for hygiene purposes. But that doesn’t mean you need to put on a load of washing every day during your period. Invest in numerous pairs of period undies to comfortably get you through each cycle, then wash them all together at the end of your period.
👉 “Rinse them in the shower! I go into the shower with them, and rinse them there. Then I throw them into the washing machine ready for whenever I do my next load.” - Prue F.
👉 “Invest in a mesh bag. During the week of my period, I store them in a mesh laundry bag, then after they’re washed with my other clothes, they’re altogether and I don’t have to go through all the wet laundry to find them!” – Raffy L
👉 “I don’t bother rinsing them, and it’s still totally fine! I just chuck them straight in the dirty washing basket until I have a full load to put on. I have a light flow so skipping that step works for me.” – Ally H
