A Spotless Guide: How to Wash Period Underwear
Periods are changing, and so are the products that aid your menstrual cycle. Period underwear has become increasingly popular, and with good reason, it’s a great alternative to a tampon and not as messy as a pad.
If you have bought period underwear, I am sure you have asked yourself how to wash period underwear, and in this blog, I am going to walk you through how to wash them and all the other information you have been searching for!
Washing Period Undies, All You Need To Know
- How To Wash Period Underwear By Hand
- How To Wash Your Period Undies In The Washing Machine
- Can the dryer damage period underwear?
- Do You Have To Wash Your Period Underwear Right Away?
- Importance Of Washing Period Underwear
- Tips To Help Extend The Life Of Your Period Panties
- When To Replace Your Period Underwear?
- What is period Underwear?
- The many reasons I love Period Undies
- The Environmental Benefits Of Using Period Underwear
- What Are Sustainable Period Undies Made From?
1. How To Wash Period Underwear By Hand
I know what you’re thinking, handwashing your period underwear can be daunting, and who has time for that? It’s a lot easier than you think, and honestly, it can increase the longevity of the underwear.
- After removing your period underwear, hold them under cold running water to rinse out as much blood as possible. Gently squeeze the fabric to release the blood, and continue rinsing until the water runs clear.
- Fill a sink or basin with cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can set stains and damage the fabric, so it's best to avoid it.
- Add a small amount of gentle, fragrance-free detergent to the water. Swirl the water to ensure the detergent is evenly distributed.
- Place your period underwear into the soapy water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Gently agitate the underwear in the water, rubbing any stained or soiled areas with your fingers or knuckles.
- For particularly stubborn stains, let your period underwear soak in the soapy water for up to 30 minutes. This will help to loosen any remaining residue or stains.
- Drain the soapy water and rinse your period underwear under cold running water until all soap has been removed. Rinse them well, as any remaining detergent can cause irritation or affect the underwear's absorbency.
- Carefully squeeze your period underwear to remove excess water, being mindful not to twist or wring the fabric too harshly, as this can damage the materials.
- Lay your period underwear flat or hang them up in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to air-dry. This will help to maintain their shape, quality, and absorbency.
2. How To Wash Your Period Undies In The Washing Machine?
Washing period underwear in the washing machine is a convenient option, and with the right settings, you can clean them effectively without causing damage. Here are some tips for washing your period underwear in the washing machine:
- Before placing your period underwear in the washing machine, rinse them under cold water to remove as much blood as possible. This step helps prevent stains and makes the washing process more effective.
- Separate your period underwear by color, like other intimates like pajamas, lingerie, and bras. Keep dark and light-colored garments separate to maintain their original color and appearance.
- Place your period underwear in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from snagging or stretching during the wash cycle.
- Choose a gentle or delicate wash cycle on your washing machine. This setting will help preserve the fabric's quality and absorbency by using a slower spin speed and reduced agitation.
- Use cold or lukewarm water for washing, as hot water can set stains and damage the fabric. Cold water is generally the best choice, as it is less likely to cause shrinkage or color bleeding.
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to clean your period underwear. Avoid using bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the absorbent materials and cause skin irritation.
- After washing, remove your period underwear from the laundry bag and lay them flat or hang them up in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to air-dry. Avoid using a dryer, as the high heat can damage the fabric and reduce the underwear's effectiveness.
3. Can the dryer damage period underwear?
Yes, using a dryer can potentially damage period underwear. The heat generated by dryers may cause the delicate and absorbent materials in period underwear to deteriorate, lose shape, or become less effective over time. Most manufacturers recommend air-drying period underwear to maintain quality and prolong lifespan.
To air-dry your period underwear, lay them flat or hang them up in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, which can also cause fading or damage to the fabric.
Air-drying might take longer than using a dryer. Still, it will help preserve the functionality and extend the life of your period underwear, ensuring that they remain a reliable and comfortable menstrual solution.
4. Do You Have To Wash Your Period Underwear Right Away?
I suggest prepping your period underwear to be washed after using them. The prep work can help prevent stains and hard-to-remove build-up from letting the blood sit in your underwear after use.
Additionally, period blood is a bodily fluid that will get an odor if you let it sit for too long. You will also want to avoid putting freshly used period panties in your laundry hamper so that your other clothes are not stained.
5. Importance of properly washing period underwear
These specially designed undergarments are made to absorb menstrual blood, providing a secure and leak-free experience during menstruation.
However, the effectiveness and hygiene of period underwear depend heavily on proper care and washing.
Maintaining Hygiene and Health
One of the most critical reasons for properly washing period underwear is to maintain personal hygiene and prevent infections. Menstrual blood can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not adequately cleaned. Ensuring that your period underwear is thoroughly washed and dried help eliminate bacteria, odors, and potential irritants, reducing the risk of vaginal infections or skin irritation.
Preserving the Effectiveness and Absorbency
Period underwear relies on multiple layers of absorbent materials to protect against leaks. Proper washing is essential to maintain the absorbency and effectiveness of these layers. Over time, improper washing techniques or harsh chemicals can damage the fabric, reducing the underwear's ability to absorb menstrual blood and prevent leaks.
Ensuring Comfort
Period underwear is designed to provide comfort and support during menstruation. Proper washing helps maintain the softness, elasticity, and overall feel of the fabric, ensuring that the underwear remains comfortable to wear over time. Washing period underwear correctly also prevents residue buildup, which can cause discomfort or irritation during use.
Extending the Lifespan of Period Underwear
Period underwear is an investment in sustainable menstrual care, and proper washing plays a crucial role in extending the life of these garments. By following the manufacturer's care instructions and using gentle cleaning techniques, you can preserve the quality and functionality of your period underwear, making it a long-lasting, eco-friendly solution for menstrual care.
6. Tips To Help Extend The Life Of Your Period Panties
To prolong the life of your period underwear and maintain their effectiveness, consider the following tips beyond the washing and drying care mentioned above:
- Several pairs of period underwear will allow you to rotate their use, reducing the wear and tear on each pair. This rotation ensures that no single pair is subjected to constant use, which can lead to faster deterioration.
- Store your period underwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading or damage to the fabric. Avoid folding or rolling them too tightly, which can cause unnecessary stretching and affect their fit over time.
- Most period underwear brands offer different absorbency levels to cater to various menstrual flow levels. Be sure to use the appropriate absorbency for your needs to avoid overloading the underwear and causing damage to the absorbent layers.
- On heavier flow days or when you anticipate an extended period without access to a bathroom, consider using a menstrual cup, tampon, or pad with your period underwear. This added protection can help alleviate the pressure on your underwear and prolong its lifespan.
- Periodically inspect your period underwear for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, loss of elasticity, or reduced absorbency. While proper care can extend their lifespan, they will eventually need to be replaced. Keeping an eye on their condition will ensure you always have effective and reliable period protection.
7. When To Replace Your Period Underwear?
Knowing when to replace your period underwear is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness and comfort.
Generally, period underwear can last anywhere from 6 months to a few years, depending on usage, care, and quality.
It's essential to pay attention to signs that indicate your period underwear may need replacement. These can include a noticeable decline in absorbency, persistent odors despite proper washing, loss of elasticity or shape, or visible wear and tear like fraying or holes.
8. What is period underwear?
Period underwear, also known as menstrual underwear or period panties, is a reusable undergarment designed to absorb and manage menstrual flow. These special underwear provide an alternative to disposable pads, tampons, and menstrual cups during menstruation, offering protection against leaks and stains.
Period underwear is typically made with multiple layers of absorbent, moisture-wicking, and leak-proof materials that work together to keep you dry and comfortable during your period.
Period panties come in various styles, sizes, and absorbency levels, making them suitable for different body types and menstrual flow volumes. They can be used alone or with other menstrual products for added protection.
9. The many reasons I love Period Undies (and you can too!)
As someone who has switched to period underwear, I have discovered numerous benefits that have improved my menstrual experience.
These innovative garments have transformed my period routine, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional menstrual products.
One of the primary reasons I use period underwear is the unparalleled comfort they provide. Made from soft, breathable materials, these undergarments feel like regular underwear, offering reliable protection against leaks.
The secure fit and absorbent layers give me the confidence to go about my daily activities without worrying about leaks, discomfort, or the need for constant adjustments.
And I appreciate that period underwear offers a sustainable alternative to disposable menstrual products. Using them significantly reduces the single-use plastic waste I generate each month.
Over time, period underwear has proven to be a cost-effective investment for me. While the initial cost might be higher than purchasing disposable products, the longevity and reusability of period underwear save me money in the long run.
By properly caring for my period underwear, I can extend its lifespan and continually reduce the need to purchase disposable menstrual products.
I have sensitive skin, and using period underwear has alleviated my concerns about the chemicals and irritants often found in disposable menstrual products. Period underwear is typically made from chemical-free and hypoallergenic materials, reducing the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Period underwear has simplified my menstrual routine, eliminating the need for extra pads or tampons. I can wear them for extended periods without worrying about frequent changes or disposal. Additionally, proper washing techniques make it easy to maintain my period underwear, ensuring they remain fresh and hygienic for the future.
10. The Environmental Benefits Of Using Period Underwear
Embracing a zero-waste period through period underwear has significant environmental benefits. Traditional disposable menstrual products, such as pads and tampons, contribute to a staggering amount of waste.
It is estimated that the average menstruating person uses approximately 11,000 disposable pads or tampons in their lifetime, which translates to roughly 300 pounds of waste.
Opting for period underwear can significantly reduce the amount of single-use menstrual products in landfills or polluting waterways. This eco-friendly alternative helps minimize plastic waste and carbon emissions associated with producing and disposing of traditional products.
11. What Are Sustainable Period Undies Made From?
- Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, making it an eco-friendly option for the inner and outer layers of period underwear. It is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, ensuring comfort during wear.
- Bamboo is a highly sustainable and renewable resource, growing rapidly and requiring minimal water and no pesticides. It is often used in the absorbent layers of period underwear due to its excellent moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties.
- TENCEL™ (Lyocell) is a sustainable fabric from wood pulp, usually derived from eucalyptus trees grown on sustainably managed farms. The fabric is soft, breathable, and highly absorbent.
- Some period underwear brands use recycled materials, such as recycled polyester or nylon, in their products. These materials are made from reclaimed plastic waste, such as plastic bottles, reducing the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.
- For the leak-proof layer, some sustainable period underwear brands opt for natural or biodegradable materials, such as ethically sourced beeswax or plant-based alternatives, rather than synthetic options like PUL or TPU.
A final thought on period panties
As someone who uses them, I highly recommend giving them a try. Not only are they convenient and comfortable, but it saves you the time of shopping for non-toxic tampons and organic pads. It is easy to wash your period underwear, and it might even salvage some of your other delicate by paying special attention to this product!
Whether you like handwashing your items or using a machine, you won't have a problem after this guide!
The final recommendation I can give you is cold water, cold water, cold water. This is the best thing for period panties and the easiest way to keep them clean and rinse out the blood from them.
If you found this article helpful and found what you were looking for, please share it with your other gals who are on the quest to make their period a seamless process!