How to Use and Care for Reusable Menstrual Products

As more people seek eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives to traditional disposable menstrual products, reusable menstrual products are gaining popularity. Products like cloth pads, menstrual cups, and period underwear offer sustainable solutions that are gentle on both your body and the environment. However, using and caring for them properly is essential to maintain hygiene, comfort, and durability.

This guide will walk you through how to use and care for reusable menstrual products with confidence.

Types of Reusable Menstrual Products

Before diving into care instructions, let’s look at the most common reusable options:

1. Reusable Cloth Pads: Made from layers of absorbent fabric with a waterproof backing, they are worn in the underwear like disposable pads.
2. Menstrual Cups: A small, flexible cup made from medical-grade silicone or rubber that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood.
3. Period Underwear: Specially designed underwear with built-in absorbent layers that can be worn on their own or as backup with another product.

How to Use Reusable Menstrual Products

1. Cloth Pads

• To use: Place the pad in your underwear, absorbent side up, and secure the wings with a snap underneath.
• When to change: Every 4–6 hours or when it feels wet or full, just like a disposable pad.
• Where to store: Use a waterproof pouch or wet bag to store used pads if you’re out.

2. Menstrual Cups

• To use: Fold the cup (e.g., into a C-shape), insert it into the vagina, and let it open to form a seal. It collects blood rather than absorbing it.
• When to empty: Every 6–12 hours, depending on your flow.
• To remove: Gently pinch the base to break the seal and pull it out. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse, and reinsert.

3. Period Underwear

• To use: Wear like regular underwear. Great for light to medium flow days or as backup.
• When to change: Depending on your flow, it can last up to 8–12 hours. Change when it feels full or damp.

How to Clean and Care for Reusable Products

Washing Cloth Pads and Period Underwear

1. Rinse with cold water after use to remove blood stains.
2. Soak (optional) in cold water with a bit of natural soap for a few hours.
3. Hand wash or machine wash with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners or bleach.
4. Air dry in the sun if possible. Sunlight helps disinfect and remove stains.

Cleaning Menstrual Cups

1. Rinse with cold or warm water after emptying.
2. Wash with mild, fragrance-free soap and water before reinserting.
3. Boil for 5–10 minutes at the end of your cycle to sanitize.
4. Store in a breathable pouch (not airtight) until your next period.

Tips to Keep in Mind

• Always wash your hands before and after handling any menstrual product.
• Track your cycle and flow to understand how often you need to change or clean your products.
• Store clean products in a dry, clean place—and carry spares when you’re out.
• With proper care, reusable pads and underwear can last 2–5 years, and menstrual cups can last up to 10 years.

Final Thoughts

Reusable menstrual products offer an effective, eco-conscious way to manage periods with comfort and dignity. With just a little care and knowledge, you can enjoy the many benefits they offer—saving money, reducing waste, and supporting your health.

Choosing reusable is more than a personal choice—it’s a positive step toward sustainability and empowerment.