How to Wash Menstrual Underwear in 5 Simple Steps – Hand Wash or Machine Wash

How do you wash menstrual underwear properly? First, check the care label. Is your menstrual underwear machine washable? Should it be washed in cold water, or is warm water also an option? Whether you choose to hand wash your menstrual underwear or use a washing machine, we’ve outlined the process in 5 simple steps!

Curious about our menstrual underwear collection after reading this blog? Check it out here >

Washing Menstrual Underwear by Hand

Hand washing menstrual underwear is useful if you don’t have enough pairs to last your entire cycle. Most people who switch to menstrual underwear start with a small number and expand their collection over time. Hand washing is a great way to do a small wash in between. You can easily wash your menstrual underwear after wearing it, keeping it fresh without frequently running small loads in the machine. This is a more eco-friendly option!

Looking for an extra pair so you can wash less often? Browse our collection >

Step 1: Rinse Under Cold Water

Start by rinsing your menstrual underwear under cold running water. Rinse out the menstrual blood and gently squeeze the absorbent part.

Tip: If rinsing immediately isn’t possible, store the underwear in a wet bag until you get home. Wet bags are leak-proof and odor-resistant, making them perfect for work or a day out.

Check out our wet bags here, perfect for storing menstrual underwear before washing >

Step 2: Hand Wash with Cold Water and Mild Soap

Fill a clean sink or basin with cold water. Make sure the water isn’t too warm, as heat can damage the elastic fibers and reduce the underwear’s absorbency.

• Add a small amount of mild soap or a gentle detergent. Fully submerge the menstrual underwear and let it soak for a few minutes.
• Gently move it around with your hands, squeezing the fabric slightly to work the soap into the fibers.
• Lightly scrub any areas where stains are visible.

Tip: Avoid soaps and detergents with harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can weaken the fabric and cause skin irritation.

Check out our sustainable detergents suitable for hand washing, from powder to Eco Egg >

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly and Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water

The next step in washing your menstrual underwear is rinsing it under cold water. Make sure all soap residues are removed. Then, gently press out the water without wringing the absorbent area.

Tip: To help it dry faster, roll the underwear in a dry towel and press gently. This removes excess moisture without wringing the fabric.

Step 4: Let It Air Dry

Lay the washed underwear flat to dry on a drying rack or hang it up. Avoid placing it directly on a radiator, as too much heat can damage the fibers. A well-ventilated space or a spot near a heater can help with air drying. Keep in mind that it may take 12 to 24 hours to fully dry. The higher the absorbency, the longer it will take.

Step 5: Ready to Use!

Once your menstrual underwear is completely dry, it’s ready to wear again! By using menstrual underwear, you save 20 to 35 disposable products per cycle.

Tip: If you wash between uses, make sure you have at enough pairs for at least 2 days of your cycle. So you can wash the one day and let them dry and wear those the next day.

Need an extra pair while washing your menstrual underwear? Explore our full collection here >

Washing Menstrual Underwear in the Washing Machine

Hand washing is great for in-between washes, but we recommend machine washing your menstrual underwear at the end of your cycle for a deeper clean. Before machine washing, check the care label and follow these 5 simple steps!

Step 1: Rinse Under Cold Water

Just like with hand washing, start by rinsing your menstrual underwear under cold running water to remove blood.

Tip: If you can’t rinse immediately, store it in a wet bag until you get home.

Check out our wet bags here >

Step 2: Use a Laundry Bag for Protection

Place your menstrual underwear in a laundry bag before putting it in the washing machine. This helps protect it from friction with other clothing and prevents wear and tear.

Step 3: Choose the Right Wash Program

Set the washing machine to a delicate cycle with low spin to prevent unnecessary wear on the underwear.

• Check the care label for the correct temperature
• Most menstrual underwear can be washed at 30–40°C or colder
• If unsure, choose a cold wash program – it will still clean the underwear effectively while saving energy

Step 4: Avoid Fabric Softener

Do not use fabric softener, as it can reduce absorbency. Avoid detergents with bleach, as they can damage the fabric. A mild detergent is the best choice.

Step 5: Air Dry and Store

After washing, let the underwear air dry for 12 to 24 hours before storing it for your next cycle.

Tip: If you don’t have enough space to air dry, most menstrual underwear can be tumble dried on low heat using a delicate setting. Always check the care label first!

Looking for Menstrual Underwear or a Wet Bag Before Washing?

Are you looking for a boxer or a thong? We offer various styles from Cheeky Pants, Selena Care, Imse, and more. Available in different sizes and designs.

Discover our full range of menstrual underwear, starter kits, and accessories here >