Menstrual cups have gained popularity for their eco-friendly and cost-effective nature. One of their key advantages is their reusability, which makes proper cleaning and maintenance essential. In this blog post, intheflow will walk you through the step-by-step process and different ways of cleaning your menstrual cup.
Why Cleaning Your Menstrual Cup is Important
Before diving into the cleaning process, it's crucial to understand why maintaining a clean menstrual cup is important.
Proper cleaning
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Prevent Infections: A menstrual cup that has not been cleaned properly can harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of infections and discomfort.
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Prolongs Lifespan: Regular cleaning helps extend the lifespan of your intheflow menstrual cup, saving you money in the long run. It is common for clear, white and lighter-coloured menstrual cups to stain or become discoloured over time, but these can often be lifted with gentle cleaning products.
- Minimises Odour: If you're cleaning your cup properly, it shouldn't smell. If your menstrual cup has a strong odour, You will need to sterilise your cup before use. We all have our own smell that is familiar to each of us. This is completely normal, and nothing to be embarrassed about, but if something is unusual to you, and you have other symptoms, you might like to consult your doctor.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Now, it might be that some menstrual cup users do not have access to boiling water or a steriliser and the good news is, many get by with a gentle, anti-bacterial hand soap. Our job is to share some 'on the go' examples that work for everyone.
Here's how to clean your menstrual cup
- Clean Your Hands: Before handling your cup, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to ensure they are clean.
- Empty Your Cup: Remove the menstrual cup from your body by gently pinching the base to release the air seal. Empty the contents into the toilet.
- Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse your cup with cold water to give it a good clean and to prevent staining. Cold water is recommended to avoid setting stains.
- Wash with Mild Soap: Apply a small amount of mild, unscented, water-based soap to your cup. Use your fingers to lather and clean your menstrual cup inside and out. Be sure to pay extra attention to the rim, suction holes, and stem (if your cup has one).
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the cup with warm (not hot) water until all soap residue is gone. Make sure there is no soap left on the cup, as soap residues can lead to discomfort or irritation.
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Sterilise (If Necessary): Most if not all, menstrual cups require sterilisation between cycles. You can do this by placing your menstrual cup in boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Use a designated container to prevent your cup from touching the bottom of the pot, which could cause damage.
There are microwavable steam sterilisers and also, sterilising tablets. The same is used to sterilise baby bottles and dummies. The key thing here is for you to clean your menstrual cup in a way that works for you. If you were to place your menstrual cup in a pan on its own, it may burn/melt. You must place it in something when boiling to protect the material from resting on a melting point.
- Dry and Store: After sterilisation, allow your cup to cool and air-dry completely. Ensure it's completely dry before storing it in a clean, breathable pouch or container.
Regular Maintenance Tips
- Clean your menstrual cup at least twice a day during your cycle.
- If you can't access clean water, you might like to wrap it in tissue and store it until you can clean it properly.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, scented soaps, or bleach when cleaning your cup.
- Check your cup for any signs of wear or damage regularly. If it's damaged, replace it.
Cleaning and maintenance of your menstrual cup are essential for your menstrual health, longevity, and your overall comfort during your period. By following these steps and adopting a routine of regular care, you can enjoy the many benefits of using a menstrual cup while ensuring a safe and comfortable period experience.
As always, if you have any questions, drop us a line! You can reach us by completing the form on our contact page.
Happy flowing!
