How to wash period underwear
It’s important to make sure you are following proper care routines, as this helps to make sure your period underwear lasts as long as it possibly can. You can at least breathe a sigh of relief knowing period underwear is pretty easy to take care of and wash. We’re going to go through some of the top questions we get about period underwear and how you should clean them.
After opening your period underwear
First wash the underwear either by hand or in the washer before first use, as this reduces any residue left over from the manufacturing process. You’ll want to use water below 30 degrees Celsius and the delicate setting if you’re using a washing machine. Then hang the underwear up to dry.
After wearing
- Rinse – take your period underwear off and rinse them in cold water to wash out the blood. You can gently rub the gusset of the underwear (the part your genitalia rests against) with your fingers until the water runs clear.
- Wash – wash your period underwear in the hand or toss your period underwear into the washing machine at 30 degrees Celsius (or less) with a mild detergent on a delicate setting.
- Dry – then simply hang them to dry and you’re done!
Tip! Don’t use fabric softener or bleach on your period underwear, as it can compromise the integrity of the fabric, and at worst, completely ruin your underwear.
Can you hand wash period underwear?
Yes, you can hand wash them if you want. Just remember to use a mild detergent and no fabric softener. You can wash them as you would in the machine: water under 30 degrees, hang dry, no bleach!
Do You Have to Wash Period Underwear Right Away?
Rinsing your period underwear in cold water is a crucial step that shouldn't be skipped. You may wonder, why cold water specifically? Cold water is highly effective at loosening and removing blood particles from fabric. Warm or hot water, on the other hand, can cause blood proteins to bind to the fabric, making stains more difficult to remove in the long run. In simple terms, cold water ensures that the blood is lifted away, whereas warm water could set the blood into the fabric. This is a key point in maintaining the longevity of your period underwear. By rinsing in cold water, you're taking the most effective first step in maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of your period underwear.
Can You Put Period Underwear in the Dryer?
We advise against putting your period underwear in the dryer. The heat can degrade the absorbent layers and may compromise the overall integrity of the fabric. Air drying is the best method to ensure the longevity of your period underwear.
How to Hand Wash Period Underwear
- Preparation: Fill a sink or basin with cold water and add a mild detergent.
- Rinse: Before placing the underwear in the basin, rinse them under cold running water until it runs clear.
- Wash: Place the underwear in the basin and gently agitate the water with your hands. You can also softly rub the fabric against itself to remove any residual menstrual fluid.
- Rinse Again: Empty the basin and fill it with fresh, cold water. Rinse the underwear until no detergent is left.
- Dry: Gently wring out excess water and hang them up to dry.
Period Underwear
How to Deep Clean Period Underwear
Deep cleaning is usually not necessary if you follow a proper cleaning routine after each use. However, if you feel the need to deep clean them:
- Pre-soak: Soak the underwear in a mixture of cold water and mild detergent for at least 30 minutes.
- Scrub: Use a soft brush to gently scrub the gusset and other areas where staining or odor might be an issue.
- Machine Wash: For an extra thorough clean, you can then place them in the washing machine on a delicate setting, using cold water and mild detergent.
- Air Dry: Hang them up to dry; avoid using the dryer.
How long does it take to dry?
They can take a little longer than traditional underwear to dry. This is because of the absorbent and multiple layers used to make the underwear. So be sure you wash them to have them available for the start of your menstrual cycle. We recommend to avoid using the dryer as this can compromise the fabric.
Tip! You can roll your underwear tightly in a towel to get them to dry faster than normal.
Do I need to sanitise them?
Nope, as long as you are washing them there is no need to sanitise, bleach, or further disinfect them. If you’re using a mild detergent, and water that is 30 degrees they will stay clean until the next use.
Can you wash period underwear with other clothes?
It's a common question that crosses the minds of many people who use period underwear: Can you wash it with your regular laundry, or does it require special care? The short answer is, yes, you can wash period underwear with other clothes. However, it's not quite as simple as tossing them in with your regular load of laundry. There are a few steps you need to take to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your period underwear. Here's what you need to know.
Pre-Rinse is Essential
Period underwear is designed to absorb menstrual fluid, which means it's crucial to rinse them out before washing. Simply rinse them in cold water until the water runs clear. This process helps to remove as much menstrual fluid as possible, reducing the risk of staining other clothes in your laundry. Make sure to rinse them as soon as you can after changing to minimize staining.
Washing Instructions
Once you've rinsed your period underwear, you can certainly wash them with your other clothes. However, it's important to remember to wash them on a cold cycle. Hot water can cause the blood to set into the fabric, making it harder to clean. A delicate or normal cycle will do just fine.
Furthermore, avoid using fabric softener, as it can reduce the absorbency of the period underwear. Regular laundry detergent, however, is perfectly fine to use.
Drying Period Underwear
When it comes to drying, it's best to air dry your period underwear. The heat from a dryer can potentially damage the absorbent layers of the underwear, reducing their effectiveness. If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting possible.
Can period blood stain them?
Our period underwear is black, so stains will not show. Washing the underwear with mild detergent and rinsing in cool water after each use help to prevent staining.
What happens if I put my period underwear in the dryer?
If you were to put your period underwear in the dryer it would damage them and, at worst, cause your period underwear to completely stop working. Always hang your underwear up to dry, but if you accidentally put them in dryer, be sure to wear them at home to make sure they are okay before going out.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
They are a reusable period product that is lightweight and made to be very similar to regular underwear. They’re washed either by hand, or a washing machine, and are used for light to moderate cycles or as extra protection with cups or tampons.
They’re designed to have multiple layers to absorb menstrual waste whilst conforming to the body to prevent leaks. They have a soft outer layer for comfort, a core absorbency layer, and multiple layers made with materials like merino wool. This makes them anti-odour, anti-microbial, and anti-bacterial. They are also made with sustainable materials, are recyclable, long lasting, and they do not contain PFAs or harmful substances.
If you’re curious about why you should make the switch, there are many reasons. If you are looking for a more comfortable choice that allows you to free-bleed without worrying about pads crinkling or bunching up, these could be a great solution. If you are not comfortable with products that are inserted like tampons or menstrual cups, or if you want to wear them without worry, specially designed period underwear may be the best choice for you. They can be a very useful alternative, and are also sustainable, as well as costing less in the long run over traditional, disposable period products. On top of all that the underwear and packaging are all recyclable as well.
It all depends on your flow, but generally we recommend wearing them from anywhere from 8 to 12 hours. If your period is lighter, it could be longer. If heavier, it could be shorter. They can also be used as a back-up to other period products or if you have heavy discharge or spotting.
This is completely up to you, but generally we recommend having anywhere from 3 to 4 pairs for your cycle. You can always buy one pair to test them out before committing to a full wardrobe of period underwear, of course.
There is period swimwear which you can buy and wear in the water; however, AllMatters period underwear is not currently designed for swimming.
We don’t recommend you use period underwear for incontinence, but there are other options of pee-proof underwear available on the market.
Yes! You absolutely can use them for postpartum bleeding - just be sure to keep checking them because how long you wear them for depends on how heavy your bleeding is. They can also be used for heavy discharge and spotting.
Tips for Long-lasting Period Underwear
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh detergents or bleach can degrade the fabric and affect its absorbency. Stick to gentle, eco-friendly detergents.
- Rotate Pairs: Just like menstrual cups, it's good to have multiple pairs of period underwear. This allows you to rotate them, ensuring each pair lasts longer.
- Check Washing Instructions: While this guide provides general advice, always check the specific washing instructions provided by the brand.
In Conclusion
Knowing how to wash period underwear correctly ensures they remain effective and durable. With proper care, these sustainable alternatives can serve you for years, reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly menstrual practices. For more insights on period care and products, explore topics like what is period underwear and our comprehensive allmatters period FAQs.
Shift towards sustainable menstruation with allmatters, your trusted guide in eco-conscious period care.
