How to properly clean your menstrual cup
Cleaning your menstrual cup is important for two reasons: to prevent infection and to maintain the cup's longevity. However, many of us are unsure about how to properly clean our menstrual cups. In this helpful post, we'll show you how to clean your cup quickly and easily. We'll also share some top tips on how to properly clean your menstrual cup...
How to clean a menstrual cup
Step 1
Before using your menstrual cup for the first time, it’s always recommended to sterilise your menstrual cup. You can do this by fully submerging the menstrual cup in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. You can also use a sterilising solution if you have some in the house. Otherwise, boiling water works fine.
Step 2
Once you have used your menstrual cup during your period, you’ll need to clean it frequently. While menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, it's best to wash them every 4-6 hours, depending on your flow. This is to help prevent any sneaky leaks or overflow. To clean your menstrual cup, you'll need to empty it first. To do this, simply remove the cup from your vagina and dump the contents into the toilet or shower.
Step 3
Rinse your menstrual cup thoroughly. Squeezing the cup between your thumb and forefinger can help dislodge any dried-up bits of menstrual blood from the holes. The three tiny Tri-Flow™ holes below the rim of your period cup help to release the seal, so make sure you keep these clear.
Step 4
The menstrual cup can be re-inserted after it has been thoroughly cleaned. You can then continue your day without worrying about your menstrual cup!
What if I start leaking blood whilst removing and cleaning my menstrual cup?
As far as the blood flow is concerned, it should not be heavy and fast enough to allow you to leak blood onto your legs or floor while you have the cup removed. While we know that these things can happen, you can put a few layers of toilet paper on the inside of your underwear so that it can catch any blood that may trickle down while you're trying to wash your cup.
How do I clean my period cup whilst out in public?
Don’t be afraid to empty your period cup whilst out in public. And don’t worry, we’re not going to ask you to take your cup to the row of sinks! All you need to do is, empty the blood into the toilet and wipe the cup with some sheets of toilet paper. If you have a water bottle on hand, you can take it in with you so you can rinse your period cup into the toilet and then reinsert it.
At the next convenient time, make sure you wash your period cup more thoroughly with soap and water. And remember, whenever you travel overseas, always make sure you clean your period cup with drinking bottled water instead of tap water.
Tips and tricks for keeping your menstrual cup clean and bacteria-free
- Save time and water by emptying and cleaning your menstrual cup in the shower. Just keep a cup-safe soap at arm's reach.
- Reuse your old toothbrush to remove any residue left in the suction holes.
- Rub your menstrual cup between your hands under running water to help loosen up any dried blood.
How to sterilise a menstrual cup
Although your cup may seem sterile in appearance, it's not uncommon for there to be a few germs hiding in the fold of the stem or on the rim, even after washing. The main cause of bacterial growth comes from the fluids that have not been properly cleaned off the cup.
The best way to ensure proper cleaning is to sanitise it at the end of your period.
While the organic material of the cup will not absorb any bacteria from your body or from cleaning it with water, you must boil your menstrual cup to sanitise it at the end of each period.
For 5 minutes, you can immerse the menstrual cup directly in boiling water in order to clean and sanitise it. After 5 minutes, set it aside to completely cool down and dry off. You can also use a sterilising solution that's safe to use with menstrual cups. Always read the instructions before using. Both processes remove bacteria to prevent their growth before the next use.
What happens if I don’t clean my menstrual cup properly?
When it comes down to it, cleaning your menstrual cup is one of the most important things you need to do. A dirty cup can lead to many unwelcomed nasties such as bacteria, stains and discolouration from mould, foul odours, irritation and, in some cases, infections. To help you avoid these issues with your period cup, it’s recommended to clean your cup after each use with soap and water and a deep clean at the end of your cycle.
Menstrual cups are amazing. They save you money, they're eco-friendly, and they're way less maintenance than pads and tampons. But they do require a bit of upkeep - namely, cleaning them properly. As now you know how to clean your menstrual cup, and you can be sure washing your cup regularly will help keep it clean, reduce odour and extend the life of the period cup.
Like always, we’re here to help you. So if you have any questions about cleaning your menstrual cup or anything else, please drop us a message on talktomesister@andsisters.com
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