How to Wash Period Underwear: The Complete Care Guide
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Well-cared-for period underwear stays effective, hygienic and comfortable for years. Poorly cared for, it can lose some of its absorbency, hold on to stains or wear out too quickly. The good news: the right method comes down to three simple steps. Here's our complete guide.
Why care matters so much
Period underwear works thanks to several layers of technical fabric: a layer that wicks away moisture, an absorbent layer and a waterproof barrier (we explain it all in How does period underwear work?). These layers need to be cleaned thoroughly to keep absorbing, and they don't like heat or certain products. Proper care has three goals:
- Hygiene: completely remove menstrual flow and bacteria.
- Performance: preserve absorbency and leak protection.
- Durability: protect the fabric and elastic so your underwear lasts a long time.
Before the first use
Wash your underwear once before wearing it, like any new underwear. It's also a good chance to get familiar with the routine.
The 3-step method
Step 1: rinse in cold water
As soon as you take your underwear off, rinse it in cold water until the water runs clear. Gently press the absorbent area between your hands without wringing it hard.
Why cold and not hot? Heat makes the proteins in blood set into the fibres. That's the main cause of stubborn stains. Cold water, on the other hand, lifts blood out easily.
Step 2: hand or machine wash in cold water
- In the machine: delicate cycle, cold water, ideally in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric and elastic. You can wash it with the rest of your laundry.
- By hand: cold water and a mild soap, gently rubbing the absorbent area, then rinse well.
- Detergent: choose a mild detergent in a normal amount. More soap doesn't clean better: the excess can get trapped in the absorbent layers.
Ideally, wash your underwear within 24 to 48 hours after wearing it. In the meantime, leave it well rinsed in a ventilated spot.
Step 3: air dry
Air dry your underwear, hanging or lying flat. The absorbent area is thick: allow several hours, sometimes overnight, for it to dry completely. Make sure it's fully dry before putting it away or wearing it.
5 mistakes to avoid
- Fabric softener: it leaves a film on the fibres that blocks absorption. This is mistake number one.
- The dryer: heat damages the waterproof barrier and the elastic. Also avoid drying it directly on a radiator.
- Hot water: it sets blood stains.
- Bleach and harsh stain removers: they weaken technical fabrics.
- Ironing: unnecessary and harmful to the inner layers.
At work, at school or when travelling
You don't need a private sink to use period underwear every day. Keep a reusable waterproof pouch in your bag: store your worn underwear in it, neatly folded, then rinse it in cold water when you get home. When travelling, bring enough pairs to give each one time to dry.
Stains and odours: our tips
- Stubborn stain: soak the underwear in cold water before washing, then gently rub the area with a mild soap. Never use hot water.
- Lingering odour: it almost always comes from rinsing too quickly or incomplete drying. Rinse longer in cold water, wash, and let it dry completely in a well-ventilated spot.
- Reduced absorbency: this is often a sign of fabric softener or detergent buildup. Run a cold wash with no product, followed by a thorough rinse.
How long does period underwear last?
With proper care, period underwear can be reused for years. A few signs tell you it's time to replace a pair:
- the elastic is stretched out and the underwear no longer fits snugly;
- leaks appear even though your flow hasn't changed;
- the fabric in the absorbent area is thin or damaged.
Quick reference
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Rinse in cold water | Hot water |
| Wash in cold water, delicate cycle | Fabric softener |
| Use a mesh laundry bag | Bleach |
| Mild detergent, normal amount | The dryer and radiators |
| Air dry | Ironing |
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash period underwear with my other clothes?
Yes, as long as you've rinsed it well first and wash in cold water. A mesh laundry bag is recommended.
How many pairs do I need to keep up with this routine?
Most people need 4 to 6 pairs to cover a full cycle, allowing for drying time.
Is it a lot of work?
Rinsing takes a minute. The rest happens with your regular laundry. After a cycle or two, the routine becomes second nature.
In summary
Rinse in cold water, wash in cold water, air dry, and skip fabric softener and the dryer: that's all it takes to keep your period underwear effective for years.
Ready to make the switch? Discover our heavy-flow period underwear, proudly designed in Quebec.
Always follow the care instructions on your underwear's label.