Articles / How To Clean Period Underwear And Make Them Last?

How To Clean Period Underwear And Make Them Last?

21.04.2024 6 Minutes
How To Clean Period Underwear And Make Them Last?

Period undies will quickly become your new go-to for comfort, absorbency, and cost-effectiveness. These innovative garments aren't just for managing Aunt Flo; they're an investment in sustainability and your wallet. However, like any quality item, they require proper care to prolong their lifespan. Here are some easy tips on how to clean period underwear and keep them in top condition, ensuring they're here for the long haul.

How to Wash Period Undies Like a Pro

You wouldn’t throw your favourite silk top into the washer without a second thought, right? Apply the same care and thoughtfulness to your period undies and they’ll love you for it. Here’s the play-by-play on how to clean period underwear and keep them in top shape:

1. Rinse in Cold Water

Period underwear care starts with a rinse right after you wear them. Cold water rinses out blood more effectively than warm or hot water, which can set the stain. Simply run it under cold water, and then wring out excess liquid.

2. Pop them in the Washer

People usually wonder, “Can you put period underwear in the washing machine?”. The answer is, “You should not do that.”

The hero feature of period undies is their technology—specially designed fabrics to keep you dry and comfy. But that fancy tech needs respect. So, “how to hand wash period underwear?”. You can wash your period undies in cold or warm water on a gentle or delicate cycle. This will keep the fabrics intact and the absorption magic will be potent wash after wash.

3. Hold Off on the Fabric Softener

Nobody likes waxy, less absorbent period panties. That's what happens when you toss fabric softeners or dryer sheets into the mix. They coat the special fibers in your period undies, hindering their absorbent prowess. Skip the softener and your period gear will thank you with better performance.

4. Hang Them Out to Line Dry

While Hello Undies is one of the only brands that can safely go in your tumble dryer, we are still fans of good old-fashioned line drying every now and then. The fresh air and sunshine will also work their disinfecting and deodorising magic, leaving your undies truly clean and fresh! Plus, it's a crucial step in learning how to clean period underwear properly.

What Kind of Soap Should I Use to Wash My Period Underwear?

Your cleansing partner in crime should be as gentle as it is effective. Hello Wash is an excellent choice for those times when you're opting to wash your period underwear by hand.

It's designed to be an all-round cleaning superstar and can be used for all period care products, including menstrual cups, menstrual discs, period underwear, and reusable pads/liners. It's pH-balanced to protect the delicate fibers of your undies and ensure their fabulous absorbency superpowers.

Plus, Hello Wash is a friend of the ocean, with no phosphates, nitrates, or artificial fragrances. Keep it real with Hello Wash for long-lasting freshness and performance of your Hello Undies!

Tips to Make Your Period Underwear Last

You've invested in some top-notch period undies, so now it's time to learn "how to deep clean period underwear" and ensure they go the distance. Follow these pro tips to keep your undies feeling and performing like new:

1. Wash Before First Use to Activate Absorbency

Before the marathon, there's the prep run. The same goes for your period undies. Giving them a wash before the first use activates the absorbent fibers, ensuring they're ready to tackle your flow full-throttle.

2. Use a Delicate Bag in the Wash to Protect

An ounce of protection: toss your period undies in a mesh laundry bag before they hit the water. This extra step can prevent snags, tugs, and tears caused by zippers or hooks from your other laundry.

3. Avoid Fabric Softeners and Strong Detergents

In a world full of laundry choices, the best one for period underwear is often the gentlest. Strong detergents can break down the special technology in your undies and leave residues that hinder absorbency. Stick to mild, clear, unscented detergents for best results.

4. Rinse with Running Water Instead of Soaking for Stains

Stains are inevitable, but they don't need to be permanent. For blood stains, simply rinse under cold running water and gently rub to lift them away. Hello Undies have a black gusset, eliminating your concerns about stains!

5. Ensure Complete Drying Before Storage

Ensure your period undies are completely dry before storing, which guarantees a mildew-free, long, happy life for these menstruation life-savers.  Pro tip: Hang them in the sun for natural disinfection.

6. Have 3-4 Pairs to Rotate, Reducing Wear and Extending Lifespan

An undies wardrobe that works for you! With multiple pairs, you can rotate and give each a bit of breathing room to dry and rest, which means less wear and tear overall.

Pamper Your Cycle with Hello Undies

At Hello Period, our mission transcends beyond crafting underwear; we aim to revolutionise your monthly experience. Our Hello Undies collection offers unparalleled comfort, style, and absorption, ensuring they remain a reliable sidekick cycle after cycle. Proper care for your Hello Undies guarantees their longevity and efficacy.

Our period undies are designed to be:

  • Super absorbent: Equal to 5 tampons or pads
  • Convenient: Machine washable + tumble dryer safe
  • Thin and leakproof: Patented, moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry
  • Independently lab-tested: Certified free of harmful chemicals
  • Antibacterial + breathable fabric: Odour resistant
  • Darn gorgeous: Absorbent lingerie needn't be boring - feel your best!
  • Designed with love: Designed by us, made to last

FAQ

Before diving into the questions, let's address some common concerns about the topics “how to clean period underwear” and “period underwear maintenance”:

1. Can I Wash Period Underwear with Other Clothes?

It's best to give period undies their solo time in the laundry. Washing them with other clothes might not give them the gentle treatment they deserve.

2. How Long Does It Take Period Underwear to Dry?

This can depend on climate and humidity, but a good rule of thumb is that period underwear takes a similar time to dry as standard underwear. Hanging them where they can get some good airflow or natural sunlight will speed this up. Unlike other brands of period and incontinence underwear, Hello Undies are safe to put in your tumble dryer on low heat.

3. Do I Have to Wash My Period Pants Straight Away After I Wear Them?

While giving them a rinse soon after use is ideal, it's okay if you can't get to it immediately. Just avoid leaving them unwashed for too long to prevent more challenging stains and give you easier cleaning.

4. Why Do My Period Undies Smell After Washing?

If your undies are coming out of the wash a bit less than fresh, it might be due to a buildup of detergent. Pop them through a rinse cycle and then dry them on the clothesline inside out so the gusset gets a good circulation of air.

6. Cleaning Period Underwear with Vinegar, Can I?

Yes, even if you take good care of your period underwear, they may still smell after washing. If this happens, soak them overnight in a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and water. Alternatively, add a small amount of vinegar or baking soda every time you wash them.

5. When Should I Replace My Period Underwear?

With proper care, high-quality period underwear will last two years or more. If you begin to notice a decrease in absorbency, rips, or fraying, it's a good sign that it might be time to replace them.

6. Can you put period undies in the dryer?

Putting your period underwear in the dryer can damage the special fabrics and, at worst, stop them from working properly. Always hang them up to air dry. If you accidentally toss them in the dryer, no need to panic—just wear them at home first to make sure they’re still effective before wearing them out.

There you have it! A comprehensive guide to how to clean period underwear and keep your favourite pair in tip-top shape. By following these simple steps, you’re not only ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your favourite pair but also contributing to a more sustainable planet.