A period cup can look intimidating until you realise it’s just a fold, a seal and a quieter day. Once you learn the basics, it’s one of the simplest upgrades you can make to your routine. Cups cut waste, save money and free you up for long stretches without bathroom breaks.
Choosing the Right Size
Sizing comes down to flow and anatomy, not guesswork. Size 1 suits lighter to moderate flows and is the safest starting point if you haven’t given birth vaginally or simply prefer a smaller, softer fit. Size 2 is ideal for heavy periods, “flooding” moments or post-birth bodies that need more capacity. If you’re unsure, start with Size 1. Your body will tell you if you need to size up. Scarlet’s cups are made from soft, medical-grade silicone and are PFAS-free, because the material that comes into contact with your most sensitive skin should be clean, safe and transparent.
How to Insert a Cup (Calmly)
There’s no single magic fold. Bodies respond differently, so it’s worth trying a couple. The C-fold and punch-down fold are the most common, and there are plenty of short demos online if you want a visual. Cups sit low in the vagina, not high like tampons. Once inserted, let the cup open and seal. A gentle twist can help it pop fully into place. You shouldn’t feel pressure or pinching. If you can feel the stem or edges, the angle might be off or the seal hasn’t formed yet. Resetting usually solves it.
Removing the Cup Without Stress
Removal is slower and calmer than insertion. Pinch the base of the cup to release the suction, then gently wiggle it downward. Pulling the stem alone won’t work and will only make it uncomfortable. A relaxed pelvic floor helps everything along. After a couple of cycles, removal becomes second nature.
How to Know When Your Cup Is Full
Most people don’t “feel” fullness the way you might expect. Instead, you get to know your timing. Cups typically offer four to eight hours between empties, depending on your flow. On heavy days, check sooner; on light days, you’ll likely go much longer. Some people can feel a subtle shift as the cup nears capacity, while others follow a simple schedule until their pattern becomes familiar. A quick check during bathroom breaks on heavy days builds confidence fast.
How Long Can You Wear a Cup
Most users get hours of uninterrupted comfort. Cups hold more than tampons, so you deal with fewer interruptions during workdays, commuting and sleep. Heavy mornings might need more frequent checks, but once you learn your rhythm, the day runs a lot smoother.
Cleaning Your Cup Properly
Keeping a cup clean is intentionally simple. During your period, rinse with water after emptying. Scarlet’s Cup Cleanser is helpful when you want that just-washed feel without irritation. Between cycles, your cup needs a proper sterilise. Scarlet’s microwave Sterilising Case makes the process quick: add water, place the cup inside, microwave and let it dry completely before storing. Stick to fragrance-free, gentle products and avoid anything oily or abrasive that can cling to silicone.
Caring for Your Cup Long-Term
A well-cared-for cup lasts for years. Keep it dry between uses, store it in a breathable pouch and avoid harsh sunlight or high heat. Over time, silicone will naturally soften - that’s normal. What isn’t normal is cracking, stickiness, rough texture or a torn stem. Those are your clear cues that it’s time to replace.
Beyond the comfort and convenience, the savings speak for themselves. A Scarlet Period Cup is $30 and replaces hundreds of pads or tampons every year. That means less waste, fewer supermarket runs and fewer “did I pack enough?” moments. It’s a simple upgrade that pays you back quickly.