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!

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. 

Do they need to be kept separate? 

It’s entirely up to you - they do not need to be kept separate, but you can if you want to. They won’t soil your clothes so you are free to wash them with your other delicates, or other clothes on the delicate cycle. 

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.

FAQ 

What is period underwear?

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.

How do they work?

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. 

Why make the switch?

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. 

How long can you wear them?

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. 

How many pairs do you need? 

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. 

Extra Q’s 

Can I swim in period underwear?

There is period swimwear which you can buy and wear in the water; however, AllMatters period underwear is not currently designed for swimming. 

Can I use period underwear for my leaky bladder?

We don’t recommend you use period underwear for incontinence, but there are other options of pee-proof underwear available on the market.

Can I use period underwear for postpartum bleeding?

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.