how to wash and care period underwear
06 May 2025
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OUTLINE
Step 2: Wash with Mild Detergent (Hand Wash or Machine Wash)
Step 3: Air Dry or Low Heat Tumble Dry
When to Replace Your Period Underwear
In recent years, reusable period underwear has redefined menstrual wellness, blending sustainable innovation with body-conscious comfort.
These scientifically engineered garments combine absorbent cores and moisture-wicking technology to offer reliable protection while reducing environmental impact—a thoughtful solution for both personal well-being and planetary health.
Much like your favorite everyday underwear, they require only slightly modified care. By honoring some key principles, you’ll effortlessly maintain their leak-protection superpowers and cloud-soft embrace. Let’s explore these simple yet crucial steps to keep your period underwear performing like new, season after season.
How to Properly Wash Reusable Period Underwear
Step 1: Rinse with Cold Water
Begin by rinsing used underwear under cold running water (<20°C/68°F) after removal. For new, unworn pairs, perform one cold pre-wash before first use to activate the fabric’s absorption capacity
Why Use Cold Water?
Fabric Care: Hot water can weaken the delicate fibers in the absorbent layers, making them less effective and shortening their lifespan.
Stain Prevention: Blood contains proteins that react to heat by clumping together. If washed in hot water, these proteins can set into the fabric, making stains harder to remove. Cold water prevents this from happening and makes cleaning easier.
For best results, rinse under running cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess menstrual fluid before the underwear is washed more thoroughly.
Step 2: Wash with Mild Detergent (Hand Wash or Machine Wash)
Once the underwear has been rinsed, the next step is washing. This can be done either by hand or in a washing machine.
Choosing the Right Detergent
It’s essential to use a mild detergent to protect the integrity of the absorbent fabric. Harsh chemicals can break down the fibers and leave residues that reduce absorbency.
Avoid using detergents with added softeners, enzymes, or heavy fragrances, as these can compromise the underwear’s performance.
Hand Washing Method
Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water (<30°C).
Add a small amount of mild detergent.（10 mL detergent per liter）
Gently rub the fabric together, focusing on stained areas.
Let the underwear soak for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water until no detergent remains.
Machine Washing Guidelines
If using a washing machine:
Use a gentle or delicate cycle to prevent excessive wear on the fabric.
Place underwear in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from friction and stretching.
Wash with similar colors to prevent dye transfer.
Avoid overloading the washing machine to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Skip fabric softeners and bleach as they can degrade the material’s performance.
Consider Water Hardness
Water hardness affects how well detergent rinses out of fabric. Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can leave residues in underwear, reducing absorbency over time. If you live in a hard water area, you can add a small amount (around 1/4 to 1/2 cup) of white vinegar during the rinse cycle. Or adding a small spoonful of lemon juice or citric acid during the rinse cycle can also help neutralize odors. It’s gentler than vinegar but still offers powerful cleaning.
Step 3: Air Dry or Low Heat Tumble Dry
Why Avoid High Heat?
Drying is just as important as washing when it comes to preserving reusable period underwear. High temperatures are the biggest threat to period underwear. High temperatures can:
Damage elastic fibers, leading to reduced fit and support.
Break down moisture-wicking layers, reducing absorbency.
Cause shrinkage, affecting comfort and durability.
Best Drying Methods
Air drying: Hang or lay the underwear flat in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV rays can weaken fabric fibers over time.
Tumble drying on low heat: Use the lowest heat setting and remove them as soon as they are dry.
Step 4: Proper Storage
To keep period underwear fresh and ready for use, proper storage is essential.
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Store in a clean, dry place, away from humidity and moisture.
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Use a breathable storage bag, such as a cotton pouch, to prevent mold and odor buildup.
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Avoid airtight containers, as they can trap moisture and lead to bacterial growth.
Step 5: When to Replace Your Period Underwear
Reusable period underwear is designed to last through approximately 200 washes, meaning they can typically be used for 6 months to 2 years, depending on care and frequency of use.
Signs That It’s Time to Replace
Reduced absorbency or leakage: If the underwear no longer holds moisture as effectively as before, it may be time for a replacement.
Thinning fabric or pilling: Over time, the absorbent layers may wear down, affecting performance.
Loss of elasticity: If the waistband or leg openings become loose or stretched out, they may not fit as securely.
Proper washing and drying can help extend their lifespan, but once these signs appear, replacing them ensures continued protection and comfort
Additional Tips
Washing Period Underwear While Traveling
Bring enough pairs based on your trip duration.
Hand Washing in a Sink. Fill the sink with cold water and add a mild, fragrance-free soap or travel laundry detergent sheet.
Gently rub the fabric to remove any residue, then rinse thoroughly.
Squeeze out excess water and air dry overnight in a well-ventilated area.
Using Hotel Laundry Services
If staying at a hotel, check if they offer a laundry service.
Ensure they use mild detergent to avoid fabric damage and skin irritation.
Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as they can degrade the absorbent layers of underwear.
Cleaning in Public Restrooms or On the Go
Sometimes, you might need to clean your period underwear while out and about. Here’s how you can handle it discreetly:
Store used underwear in a waterproof, odor-proof wet bag until you can wash them properly.
Carry a travel-sized gentle detergent to wash them in a pinch.
If a sink is unavailable, rinse them with bottled water and store them in a wet bag until you reach a washing facility.
How do you deodorize period underwear
Proper washing usually prevents odors, but lingering smells may occur due to:
Incomplete rinsing, leading to detergent buildup.
Bacteria accumulate from not drying underwear properly.
Hard water deposits affect fabric freshness.
Effective Solutions for Odor Removal
If odors persist, try these solutions:
White Vinegar Soak: Mix one part vinegar with four parts water and let the underwear soak for 30 minutes before washing.
Baking Soda Treatment: Sprinkle baking soda on damp underwear, let sit for an hour, then wash as usual.
Tea Tree Oil Boost: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your detergent for its natural antibacterial properties.
Enzyme-Based Odor Removers: Use enzyme cleaners designed to break down biological residues causing odors.
Conclusion
By following these washing and care guidelines, you can extend the life of your reusable period underwear while ensuring hygiene and comfort. Proper maintenance helps keep them fresh, effective, and ready for continued use, making them a sustainable and reliable menstrual care option.
