Cleaning menstrual underwear: wash your underwear, swimsuit or menstrual cup thoroughly!
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Reading time 11 min
THEmaintenance of sanitary protection is a key step to extend the lifespan but also ensure good efficiency and maintain the quality of its protections.
While you use teen period panties, menstrual swimwear to menstrual cups, today we give you all the tips and advice for properly cleaning all your washable and reusable period protection.
How to clean menstrual panties that smells bad or leaks despite washing? What products are effective for thoroughly cleaning your menstrual panties? Hydrogen peroxide, special detergent, sodium percarbonate, which natural scrub should I use?
Learn how to eliminate the yellow spots rebels, to regulate unpleasant odors (even fishy smell!) and to adopt a gentle but effective daily maintenance to preserve your panties, swimsuits or menstrual cups, while respecting your skin, your health and the environment.
In this article
Recognizing clogging: the signs that don't lie What is clogging of sanitary protection? The 4 telltale signs of clogging The simple test to confirm the diagnosis: the water drop test The foolproof method for cleaning your menstrual panties: the step-by-step guide The miracle product: why is sodium percarbonate your best ally? The complete tutorial: cleaning with sodium percarbonate Precautions for use and frequency of cleaning SOS odors and stains: solutions for desperate cases Put an end to stubborn odors (even fishy smells) Removing stubborn stains (dried blood, yellow stains) Preventing clogging: good daily maintenance habits The ideal washing routine for panties that last Products to absolutely ban from your routine What about my menstrual cup and swimsuit? Clean and sterilize your menstrual cup Caring for your menstrual swimsuit To conclude FAQ on cleaning menstrual panties Explore more! Washable and organic menstrual protection?
Recognizing clogging: the signs that don't lie
How do you know if your menstrual panties are dirty? A few signs don't lie! Clogging, caused by the accumulation of limescale, glycerin or blood residue, reduces the absorption capacity (it saturates more quickly, lasts less time) and creates persistent odors (really not pleasant).
What is clogging of sanitary protection?
The phenomenon offouling results from a buildup of residue in the fibers of the absorbent fabric. These residues come from various sources: limescale in the water, glycerin in detergents, or uneliminated blood residue.
Contrary to popular belief, this is not a sign of poor hygiene, but a mechanical process linked to wear and maintenance. Glycerin, present in certain detergents or Marseille soaps, clogs the pores of the fabric, reducing its effectiveness. This may be surprising, but even products considered "natural" can alter the technical properties of the protections. The dried blood in the heart of the membrane persists and resists despite washing. Finally, the limestone present in the water is deposited and trapped in this thick fabric. In short, it is rather logical that the period panties gets dirty over time.
In addition to regular washes, we also recommend that you carry out a thorough cleaning at least once a year.
The 4 telltale signs of clogging
Loss of absorption and leaks: The underwear or swimsuit is slow to absorb fluids or leaves marks on clothing, even though it was initially effective. This is normal, as the membrane is already saturated with period/limescale/detergent residue.
Persistent bad odors: Despite regular washing, an unpleasant odor (reminiscent of humidity or "past" blood) sets in, a sign of bacteria lodged in the residue.
A fabric that becomes rough or "cardboardy": The fabric loses its usual suppleness, becoming unpleasant to the touch, often due to the accumulation of limescale or detergent.
Stains that won't go away: Brownish, white, yellow, or red marks remain visible despite washing, indicating that blood has settled in the fibers.
Are you noticing these signs? Then your underwear or swimsuit is dirty!
The simple test to confirm the diagnosis: the water drop test
Here is a foolproof method to check the status of your period panties. On clean, dry panties, place a few drops of water on the absorbent area (inside of your underwear).
If the water beads up and takes a long time to be absorbed (more than 10 seconds), the fibers are clogged and saturated with dirt. Conversely, a fast absorption confirms that the fabric is in good condition.
This test, inspired by protocols for evaluating the absorption capacities of teen period panties, allows the problem to be diagnosed precisely without ambivalence.
The foolproof method for cleaning your menstrual panties: the step-by-step guide
The miracle product: why is sodium percarbonate your best ally?
Le sodium percarbonate is an essential ally to bring life back to its period panties. Ecological and effective, it acts as a stain remover, deodorizer and descaler without damaging technical fabrics. Unlikebleach, it preserves the elasticity of the fibers and the effectiveness of the anti-leak barrier.
Its magic works as soon as it comes into contact with hot water. It releases active oxygen, eliminating stubborn residue. A well-kept secret? It revives the white No discoloration and no harsh chemical residue. Perfect for those who want to preserve their investment while combining hygiene and durability.
The complete tutorial: cleaning with sodium percarbonate
- Instructions: Fill a bucket with very hot water (60°C minimum). Avoid boiling water to avoid damaging the waterproofing.
- Dosage: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sodium percarbonate per liter of water. Mix until completely dissolved.
- Soaking: Immerse your washed and dry sanitary protection (this works for the cup, swimsuits, and panties). Leave to act for at least 4 hours, or overnight for severe clogging.
- Final rinse: Rinse thoroughly with clean water until clear. Machine wash at 30°C without detergent for a deeper clean.
- Drying: Air dry, never tumble dry. Place the absorbent area flat for optimal drying.
This descaling and disinfecting process restores absorption and eliminates lingering odors. With this deep cleaning, menstrual pads regain their original freshness in a few simple steps.
Smart tip: if stains persist, repeat the operation after gently brushing the affected area.
Precautions for use and frequency of cleaning
Avoid mixing with vinegar or lemon.
Store in a dry place out of reach of children.
Store in its original packaging, away from humidity and strong heat.
By following these tips for cleaning with percarbonate, you can avoid premature deterioration, saturation, leaks, unpleasant odors, and discomfort. Your underwear and sanitary pads will remain effective and comfortable, month after month. Regular maintenance and effective annual cleaning ensure optimal hygiene and guaranteed menstrual peace of mind.
SOS odors and stains: solutions for desperate cases
Put an end to stubborn odors (even fishy smells)
A lingering odor in your washable pads often comes from bacteria. How can you eliminate unpleasant odors?
Soak your pads in a mixture of cold water and a glass of white vinegar for 30 minutes. This duo neutralizes odors, eliminates limescale, and prevents the buildup of soap residue. White vinegar works deep down without damaging the fabrics, making it ideal for keeping your pads in good condition.
Did you know? A fishy odor can reflect a temporary vaginal imbalance. Factors such as a forgotten tampon, sexual intercourse, or hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, menopause) sometimes disrupt vaginal pH. However, use the vinegar method to disinfect. If the odor persists on the skin or is accompanied by itching, unusual discharge, or pain, consult a professional.
Tips with bicarbonate: Baking soda, sprinkled on the absorbent area and left to act for a few hours, deodorizes and absorbs residual moisture for long-lasting action.
Removing stubborn stains (dried blood, yellow stains)
For dried blood stains, the ox gall (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) and the oxygenated water are effective.
Dampen the stain with cold water, rub vigorously for 10 seconds with ox gall, leave for 15 minutes, brush, and wash at a low temperature. Ox gall, derived from animal bile, breaks down blood proteins with its natural acids.
Soaking in water + hydrogen peroxide is also effective on light-colored lingerie that is stained.
For yellow stains caused by acidic secretions, mix baking soda and cold water into a paste. Apply for one hour.
Lemon juice, on light fabrics, acts as a natural whitener in synergy with sun exposure.
Sommières earth, used in paste form, removes stubborn marks by absorbing encrusted deposits.
For stubborn stains, soaking in sodium percarbonate (cold water-based paste) will restore shine to fabrics.
Good to know: Some yellow discoloration is inevitable on organic cotton with repeated use. To limit this, rinse immediately with cold water after use. Avoid hot water: it sets stains and damages the fibers.
Preventing clogging: good daily maintenance habits
Losing effective menstrual panties within a few months due to poor care is an avoidable frustration. By following simple steps, you can maintain absorption and reduce unpleasant odors.
The ideal washing routine for panties that last
Adopting a rigorous washing routine guarantees a extended lifespan of your protections. Here are the three essential steps:
Rinse immediately with cold water : Warm water fixes blood and stains by coagulating menstrual proteins. Rinse immediately after use until the water runs clear. This simple step prevents 80% of persistent stains.
Machine (or hand) washing: Wash at 30°C on a delicate cycle, using a laundry bag to protect delicate fabrics. Choose a mild, non-greasy soap or an eco-friendly detergent without synthetic fragrances.
Air drying is essential: Tumble drying and direct heat sources damage fabrics. Dry flat or hang in a ventilated area. Moderate exposure to sunlight naturally disinfects without altering the technical properties.
Products to absolutely ban from your routine
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Product to avoid |
Why you should avoid it |
| Fatty detergents (rich in glycerin) and glycerin Marseille soap |
Glycerin blocks the pores of the absorbent fabric, forming an impermeable film that reduces absorption efficiency. |
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Fabric softener / Fabric softener |
Softening agents coat the fibers with a greasy layer, destroying the absorbency of the fabric. |
| Bleach and chlorine bleaching agents |
Extremely aggressive, these products destroy the waterproof membrane and weaken the tissues. |
| Powerful chemical stain removers |
These products may contain aggressive solvents that alter the technical layers of your protections. |
By choosing quality protections like Louloucup menstrual products combined with appropriate maintenance, you opt for clean, serene, hygienic, ecological and inexpensive periods.
What about my menstrual cup and swimsuit?
Reusable protection requires careful maintenance to maintain its effectiveness. For both your menstrual cup and your menstrual cup, a few important steps are essential to prevent clogging and ensure its longevity.
Clean and sterilize your menstrual cup
✅ The right steps for a clean cup:
Wash the cup in thecold water every time you empty your cup. Then rinse with warm water and a mild soap or intimate lotion. Avoid vinegar and percarbonate, which damage silicone. For the vents, fill the cup with water and shake it with your closed palm.
Sterilize it for 5 to 10 minutes inboiling water between each cycle (at the beginning and end of the cycle). For stains, a bath of hydrogen peroxide (3%) for a few hours is sufficient. Exposure to sunlight disinfects naturally, without damaging the material.
❌ Actions to avoid for a clean cup:
Avoid harsh products: overly processed chemical detergents.
Store it when it is not dry or in an unventilated area.
Caring for your menstrual swimsuit
After swimming, remove your swimsuit and rinse it in cold water to remove the menstrual flow but also salt water or chlorinated water.
Once you get back from the beach or the pool, wash your swimsuit in the washing machine or by hand at 30°C with a net, without fabric softener. For stains, use bicarbonate before washing.
Dry your swimwear in theyour panties Avoid direct exposure to sunlight. Avoid tumble dryers, radiators, or hair dryers: heat weakens the fibers.
To conclude
L'clogging of menstrual panties results from the accumulation of dried blood residue, greasy detergent and limescale, reducing their absorption, effectiveness, comfort and softness.
A 4-hour soak inhot water with sodium percarbonate Restores their effectiveness without damaging technical fabrics. It's a great way to clean your menstrual pads. An eco-friendly and economical way to extend their lifespan, while avoiding stubborn odors and stains. Harsh chemicals are useless; always prioritize simple, homemade ingredients to clean your washable menstrual pads.
Finally, don't forget! At Louloucup, all our period protection is minimum price. Eligible for the custom pack at a sliding scale, you can make great savings. Plus, delivery is free! So go for it!
FAQ on cleaning menstrual panties
How to remove blood stains from menstrual panties?
To eliminate blood spots, start by rinsing immediately in cold water after use. For stubborn stains, rub gently with ox gall. Sodium percarbonate is also effective: dilute a tablespoon in hot water (60°C minimum), soak the panties for several hours, then wash at 30°C without fabric softener. Avoid boiling water, which could set the residue.
Why do my menstrual panties smell like fish?
This unpleasant odor is often linked to bacterial proliferation due to insufficient rinsing or drying too long. The phenomenon can also reflect an intimate imbalance, in which case a medical consultation is recommended. To deodorize, soak the panties for 30 minutes in cold water with a tablespoon of white vinegar. This mixture neutralizes the bacteria or odor persistent. Once air dried, the panties will regain optimal freshness.
How to remove yellow stains from menstrual panties?
The yellow spots often come from acid secretions or deodorant residue. To fade them, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply to the stained area and leave on for 1 hour before washing. Lemon juice diluted in cold water is a gentle alternative for light-colored fabrics. For old stains, soaking for several hours in sodium percarbonate (1 tablespoon in 5L of hot water) revives the shine of the fabric.
How to care for a menstrual cup and swimsuit?
For the cup, rinse it in cold water after each emptying and disinfect it at the beginning and end of the cycle by immersing it in boiling water for 5 minutes. In case of stains, soaking in White vinegar or sodium percarbonate is recommended. For the jersey, pre-washing in cold water after use, followed by machine washing at 30°C in a net bag, prevents soiling. Avoids Say no to the dryer and ironing, and uses gentle detergents without glycerin. The UV rays from sun drying enhance its hygiene.
Explore more!
Washable and organic menstrual protection?
