How to Clean a Menstrual Cup

How to Clean a Menstrual Cup

The long and tiresome steps to changing sanitary pads don’t have to trouble you anymore. All thanks to the introduction of menstrual cups in the market. 

So, have you finally switched to a menstrual cup? Well, it’s a great decision and a step towards a more hygienic period. At ‘that time of the month’, you always seek utmost comfort and there’s nothing more comfortable and healthier than using a menstrual cup. Before guiding you on how to clean it, let’s understand a bit about what a menstrual cup actually is.

Menstrual cups are a step towards sustainability in an unconventional way - these are more environment-friendly than typical tampons or sanitary napkins. These soft cups are free of any toxic chemicals, which make them healthier options. But, how can you clean them? Well, don’t worry! We have got it covered for you, read on to know more.

How to a Sterilize Menstrual Cup

It might seem tough but maintaining the freshness of your menstrual cup is super easy. 

Here are a few tips on how to clean menstrual cups whether you’re at your home or at work.

1. Wash your hands!

The most important step is to make sure that your hands are clean. Since you’ll be touching the cup, your hands have to be clean to minimize any chance of unwanted infection. Ensure that the whole lower region and your vagina are clean.

2.Easy cleaning before use

After you’ve washed your hands, clean the cup with a mild cleanser. After that, place it in a pot full of boiling water for a maximum of 10 minutes. Take precautions and make sure that the cup doesn’t settle at the base of the pot and get burnt.

3.Daily cleaning formula

Your menstrual cup has to be clean after every use to prevent any bacteria from building up. A clean menstrual cup can also help you stay away from stains or bad odors. To clean the cup when you’re indoors, drain it into the toilet. Wash it under clean water and apply a mild, oil-free, and essence-free soap for better cleaning. Once it’s all clean and fresh, you can reinsert it.

Cleaning the menstrual cup at home isn’t challenging, right? The bigger problem arises when you’re at a public place or traveling. Well, in case you need to clean it in a public toilet, empty the cup into the toilet as normal and wipe it with toilet paper or tissues. Be careful and remove any piece of paper sticking to it. With such an easy step, you can again get going.

In scenarios when you’re traveling or backpacking, carry a small water bottle with you. You can pour the water to clean the cup and wipe it before reinserting.

4.End of the cycle!

The last day of the period - what a relief, right? With the excitement of your period getting over, don’t forget to sanitize your menstrual cup.

Rinse the cup and boil it for less than 10 minutes. After it has been boiled, cool it off in a dry place. Now, place the cleansed cup in your pouch or bag that is free from germs or dirt. Make sure that the bag has air circulation within.

5.A Healthy Period!

A menstrual cup has to be thoroughly cleaned before and after every use. With less cumbersome procedures than those required for tampons or sanitary napkins, menstrual cups are bound to make your periods easy and hygienic. There are several menstrual cup sterilizers available in the market. Check out Purplle to know more. Here is all you need to know about periods and menstural cycle.

FAQs

Q1. Which product cannot be used to clean the menstrual cup?

Ans. The best cleaning formula for a menstrual cup is going natural with boiling water. Follow this policy - if you can’t use a product for cleaning your vagina, it cannot be used for a menstrual cup. Keep your menstrual cup away from harsh chemical products like bleach, fragrant soaps, rubbing alcohol, baking soda, dishwashing soap, etc. The safest option is to go for gentle, oil-free soaps.

Q2. How can you get rid of odor coming from the cup?

Ans. If the menstrual cup has a sour smell, make sure that you keep a track of the duration of use for one cup. Usage of one menstrual cup for an extended period can make it smell. Keep reinserting the cleaned cup within a time frame of 4 to 8 hours. 

After every period, sanitize the cup and store it in a bag that facilitates air circulation. These easy measures will keep you free from bad odor. 

Q3. How can you remove the stains from the menstrual cup?

Ans. In case you notice a slight discoloration in the cup, make sure that you thoroughly clean it. Properly maintain it and always keep it clean. Scrub the stains with an old toothbrush. However, if you witness heavy discoloration on the cup, maybe it’s time to switch to the next one.
 

Read More - A complete guide to Menstrual Cups: How to Use, Benefits & More!