Menstrual cups change the game. They are eco-friendly, budget-savvy, and hold more fluid than standard tampons. But they do require a bit more maintenance. You have to clean them yourself.
We have used cups for years. We know the learning curve can feel steep. But trust us, the freedom is worth the extra scrub.
Here is exactly how to clean a menstrual cup properly to keep it safe and odor-free, whether you are at home, in a public stall, or hiking in the woods.
Key Takeaways
- Wash your hands before and after handling your cup to prevent introducing bacteria.
- Clean the cup daily with mild, oil-free, and fragrance-free soap during your cycle.
- Sterilize the cup between cycles by boiling it for 3 to 5 minutes or using a steam bag.
- Replace the cup immediately if you notice sticky films, cracks, tears, or powdering.
Why You Must Clean Your Cup
Hygiene is non-negotiable. You insert this product into a very sensitive area. If you skip cleaning, you invite bacteria, unpleasant odors, and potential infections like yeast or BV.
Regular cleaning also extends the life of your purchase. A well-maintained medical-grade silicone cup can last up to 10 years. Proper care protects your body and your wallet.
How to Clean a Menstrual Cup Before First Use
Did you just buy a brand-new cup? Do not insert it yet. Factory residue and dust can linger on the silicone. You need to sterilize it first.
- Time: 20 minutes.
- Difficulty: Easy.
What You’ll Need
- Pot.
- Water.
- Metal whisk (optional).
- Mild, unscented soap.
- Clean towel.
1. Wash Your Hands and the Cup
Wash your hands thoroughly. Give the cup a quick scrub with warm water and mild soap to remove surface dust.
2. Boil Water
Fill a pot with enough water so the cup can float without touching the bottom. Bring it to a rolling boil.
3. Boil the Cup
Drop the cup in. Let it boil for 5 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it. If the water boils dry, the silicone will melt and ruin your pot.
Kitchen Hack
4. Dry and Store
Remove the cup with tongs. Place it on a clean cloth to air dry completely. It is now ready for your cycle.
How Long to Boil a Menstrual Cup
Timing varies by brand. Companies like DivaCup, Saalt, and Lunette typically recommend 3 to 5 minutes. Some denser rubber cups, like The Keeper, may tolerate longer times.
Boiling water kills most pathogens within one minute (1). We recommend aiming for 5 minutes to be safe without risking heat damage to the silicone. Always check the manual that came with your specific box.
How to Clean a Menstrual Cup During Your Period
You do not need to boil your cup every time you empty it. A simple wash is sufficient during your cycle. However, the logistics change depending on where you are.
- Time: 5 minutes.
- Difficulty: Easy.
What You’ll Need
- Potable water.
- Mild, oil-free soap (e.g., Saalt Wash).
- Water bottle (for public stalls).
- Cup wipes (e.g., Pixie Cup Wipes).
At Home
- Wash hands: Never skip this. Dirty hands introduce more bacteria than a dirty cup.
- Remove and empty: Dump the contents into the toilet.
- Cold rinse: Rinse with cold water first. Hot water sets blood stains; cold water prevents them.
- Wash warm: Scrub gently with warm water and cup-safe soap.
- Reinsert: Shake off excess water and pop it back in.
In Public Bathrooms
Public stalls can be tricky if the sink is outside the stall. Do not panic. You do not need to waddle to the sinks with your pants down.
- Wash hands first: scrub up at the main sink before entering the stall. Dry them well.
- The Water Bottle Method: Bring a water bottle into the stall. Remove the cup, dump it, and use the water bottle to rinse the cup over the toilet. Reinsert.
- The Wipe Method: If you have no water, use a specially formulated cup wipe to clean it out.
- The “Just Dump” Method: In a pinch, just dump the contents and wipe the cup with toilet paper. Reinsert it immediately. This is safe to do once or twice, provided you give it a proper wash when you get home.
While Traveling or Camping
Hygiene is harder outdoors, but still possible.
- Dig a cat hole: If you are backcountry camping, dig a hole 6 to 8 inches deep. Empty the menstrual fluid there and cover it. Otherwise, use the camp toilet.
- Rinse: Use treated water or bottled water. Do not use lake or river water directly, as it may contain microbes that upset your pH balance.
- Wash: Use biodegradable soap (like Dr. Bronner’s) sparingly. Rinse thoroughly.
- Reinsert: If hygiene conditions are terrible, consider using disposable discs or pads for the trip to avoid infection risks.
How to Sterilize a Menstrual Cup (Between Cycles)
Once your period ends, you must sterilize the cup before storing it. This resets the hygiene clock for next month.
- Time: 10 minutes.
- Difficulty: Easy.
What You’ll Need
- Mild soap.
- Pot or microwave-safe mug.
- Steam bag (optional).
- Clean towel.
1. Deep Clean
Wash the cup thoroughly with soap. Use a soft toothbrush (designated for this purpose only) to scrub any lettering or grip rings where residue hides.
2. The Boil Method
Place the cup in boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
3. The Microwave Method
Submerge the cup in a microwave-safe mug filled with water. Microwave for 3 to 4 minutes. The water must boil to be effective.
Alternatively, use a steam bag. Add a little water, toss the cup in, seal it, and zap it for the recommended time (usually 3 minutes).
Warning
4. Dry Completely
Moisture breeds bacteria. Let the cup air dry on a clean towel. Ensure the air holes are free of water.
How to Remove Stains from a Menstrual Cup
Silicone stains over time. A yellow or brown tint is normal and does not mean the cup is dirty. However, if you want it to look new again, you can freshen it up.
The Hydrogen Peroxide Soak
Check your manufacturer’s instructions first. If they approve:
- Mix one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts water in a glass or ceramic mug.
- Submerge the cup.
- Soak for 1 hour (do not leave it overnight, as prolonged exposure can degrade silicone).
- Wash thoroughly with water and soap to remove all chemical traces.
- Sterilize by boiling.
The Sunshine Method
Sunlight is a natural bleaching agent. Place your clean, dry cup on a windowsill in direct sunlight for a few hours. This can help fade discoloration and kill lingering odors.
How to Store a Menstrual Cup
Never store your cup in a plastic bag or airtight Tupperware. Silicone needs to breathe. If you seal it up while it is even slightly damp, mold will grow.
Store your cup in:
- The cotton drawstring pouch it came in.
- A breathable fabric bag.
- A designated spot in your bathroom cabinet or drawer.
When to Replace a Menstrual Cup
Cups are durable, but they are not immortal. Inspect your cup every month. It is time to toss it if:
- You see visible cracks or splits in the rim.
- The surface feels sticky, tacky, or oily.
- It has a powdery white film that won’t wash off.
- It causes irritation despite being clean.
- A foul odor persists after boiling.
- You notice sudden leaking (the silicone may have softened too much).
FAQs
How Do You Clean the Tiny Air Holes?
Fill the cup with water. Place your palm flat over the open top to create a seal. Turn it upside down and squeeze the base. The water will shoot out of the holes, clearing any blockage. You can also use a toothpick soaked in rubbing alcohol or a specialized interdental brush.
What If I Dropped My Cup in the Toilet?
If you drop it in a public toilet, throw it away. The risk of picking up foreign bacteria or viruses is too high. If you drop it in your own clean toilet at home, you can salvage it. Wash it thoroughly with soap and boil it for at least 10 minutes to ensure total sterilization.
Can I Wash a Menstrual Cup With Dish Soap?
Generally, no. Most dish soaps are too harsh for the delicate skin of your vagina and can cause yeast infections. However, if the dish soap is ultra-mild, unscented, and free of antibacterial agents, it might be okay in a pinch. Dedicated cup washes or Cetaphil are safer choices.
Can I Use Vinegar to Clean My Cup?
You can use a diluted vinegar solution (one part vinegar to nine parts water) for a brief soak to help with odors. However, rinse it extremely well. Vinegar is acidic and can deteriorate silicone over time if used too often.
Do I Have to Boil My Cup Every Month?
It is highly recommended. While washing removes surface dirt, boiling is the only way to kill durable bacteria and spores. If you want to avoid infections, boiling or steaming between cycles is the best practice.
Keep It Fresh
A menstrual cup is a fantastic tool for managing your period, but it requires a partnership. You take care of the cup, and the cup takes care of you.
Wash it daily during your cycle, boil it once a month, and store it in a breathable bag. If you stick to this routine, your cup will stay fresh, safe, and effective for years to come.
