We all know how important it is to feel comfortable and confident throughout our menstrual cycle. Period underwear is a unique type of period product for those who want a reusable, sustainable option instead of disposable products like tampons or pads. But like any other item that works hard to keep you feeling fresh and protected, period underwear deserves some TLC. Proper care ensures that your period underwear stays hygienic, lasts longer, and keeps working at peak performance.
How to Wash Period Underwear in 3 Steps
Whether you have heavy periods or a light menstrual flow, knowing how to wash period underwear is key to keeping them in top-notch condition. Here are three easy steps you can follow for both hand washing and machine washing.
#1 Pre-Rinse with Cold Water
First things first—always start by rinsing your period panties with cold water to help prevent stains from setting. Period blood can easily leave stubborn stains if not handled promptly, and using cold water to rinse your underwear immediately after wearing them helps flush out most of the menstrual flow. Hot water, on the other hand, can cause stains to lock into the fabric, so avoid it during this initial rinse. Simply run the underwear under cold water until the water runs clear. This will make the actual wash much more effective.
#2 Hand Wash or Machine Wash on Delicate
Now that you’ve done the pre-rinse, it’s time to wash your underwear. Hand washing and machine washing are both solid options.
Hand Washing
Hand washing your period panties is the gentlest method. Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water, add a small amount of mild detergent, and gently agitate the fabric. You want to avoid scrubbing too hard since period underwear typically contains an absorbent layer that can be damaged with too much force. Once clean, rinse the soap out thoroughly with cold water.
Machine Washing
If you’re short on time (or just not a fan of hand washing), machine-washing period underwear is perfectly fine if you do it correctly. Use a delicate cycle with cold water to protect the fabric and absorbent layers. Harsh detergents can reduce the absorbency, so stick with a mild detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals, fabric softeners, and bleach.
Tip: Consider using a mesh laundry bag to protect your period underwear from friction and snags, just like you would with your favorite delicate garments.
#3 Use Mild Detergent
When washing period underwear, always choose a mild detergent. Strong detergents often contain chemicals that can degrade the fabric’s absorbency over time. Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free option to keep your underwear soft and effective. A gentle detergent will ensure they remain as functional as possible for as long as possible.
While fabric conditioners may seem tempting, they can actually coat the fibers of your period underwear, reducing their ability to absorb menstrual flow. Avoid fabric softeners and opt for a simple, mild detergent.
Drying Period Underwear the Right Way
Proper drying techniques can make all the difference in maintaining the elasticity and absorbency of your underwear.
Air Dry to Avoid Heat Damage
Air drying is the best method for drying period underwear. The absorbent materials inside your undies can be sensitive to heat, so it’s a good idea to avoid using a tumble dryer. High heat can cause the fabric to shrink, lose its elasticity, or even damage the waterproof layers. To air dry, simply lay them flat or hang them up in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid wringing them out harshly, as this could damage the fabric. Instead, try patting them gently with a towel to help remove excess water before hanging them up.
Avoid Fabric Softeners and Bleach
As mentioned earlier, fabric softeners may smell divine, but they’re a no-go for period underwear. These softeners create a layer on the fabric, making it less absorbent and hindering its performance. Similarly, bleach should be avoided at all costs—though it might seem like a good way to tackle period stains, bleach will deteriorate the delicate materials and cause discoloration.
How Often Should You Wash Period Underwear?
It’s best to wash period underwear after every wear. How long can you wear period underwear for? It depends on your flow, but you can typically wear period underwear from 6-12 hours. Proper washing ensures you’re maintaining good hygiene and preventing bacteria buildup, which is crucial during your menstrual cycle.
Keep Your Period Underwear Fresh
Taking care of your period underwear is all about following a few key steps to preserve their absorbency and lifespan. From the initial cold water rinse to using a mild detergent and air drying, these simple practices can keep your period underwear fresh and effective for many cycles to come.
By showing your period pants a little extra love, you’ll get the most out of Rael’s eco-friendly, comfortable period products. Whether you're wearing high-waisted period underwear or bikini period underwear, follow our washing tips to enjoy a fresher, longer-lasting menstrual experience!