Why Period Underwear Deserves Proper Care – The Complete Guide to Making Them Last

If you’re reading this, you’re probably curious about period underwear – either you’re thinking of trying it, or you already own some and want to make them last. Either way, you’re in the right place.

They only save you money if you take proper care of them. Unlike disposables that you just toss, period underwear needs a little TLC to keep it performing its best. The good news? It’s not complicated. After using them for years and testing dozens of brands, I’ve perfected a simple care routine that keeps mine in great shape.

Ways to Wash, Dry, & Maintain Period Underwear

I absolutely love period underwear. They’ve been one of my favorite zero-waste swaps, but here’s the thing: they’re not just for eco-warriors. Even if sustainability isn’t your top priority, period underwear offers serious benefits. They’re more comfortable than pads, less fuss than cups, and can save you hundreds of dollars over time.

How Many Pairs Do You Really Need?

When I first started with period underwear, this was my biggest question. Through trial and error (and some leaks I’d rather forget), here’s what I’ve learned:

For light to moderate flows:

• Absolute minimum: 2 pairs (but you’ll be doing laundry constantly)
• Comfortable amount: 3-4 pairs (this is my sweet spot)
• Ideal for convenience: 5-6 pairs

For heavy flows:

• You’ll want at least 5 pairs
• 7-10 pairs if you don’t want to wash daily

Pro tip: Different brands have different absorbencies. Some of my Modibodi pairs can last 12-24 hours, while thinner styles need changing every 4-6 hours. Factor this in when deciding how many you need.

Getting the Most Out of Your Period Underwear

The beauty of period underwear is its simplicity. Unlike cups that have a learning curve or pads that can shift around, these work exactly like regular underwear – just put them on and go about your day.

But there are some usage tips I’ve picked up:

• Change frequency depends on your flow and the underwear’s absorbency. Start by changing as often as you would with pads, then adjust as you learn their limits.
• Layer protection on heavy days. I sometimes use a menstrual disc with my underwear for extra security.
• Choose the right style – some are better for overnight, others for workouts.

Also Read: How to Clean Your Reusable Period Products Between Uses

How Do You Wash Period Underwear?

This is where most people get nervous, but don’t worry – it’s easier than you think. The golden rule: always rinse them as soon as possible after wearing. Letting blood dry makes stains set and can lead to odors over time. Here’s my two-step washing method to wash period underwear:

Step 1: Immediate Rinse

I do this right in my bathtub to contain any mess. There are two ways I approach it:

• The Slow Water Method
  • Let cool water run gently over the underwear
  • Use my hands to massage out the blood
  • Catch the water in a bucket to reuse for plants (yes, really!)
  • Repeat until water runs clear
• The Washboard Method
  • Use a small washboard basin I got secondhand
  • Add a little cool water and scrub gently
  • This uses less water than the first method

Why cool water? Hot water can actually set protein-based stains (like blood), making them harder to remove later.

Step 2: Hand and Machine Washing

After rinsing, I toss them in with my regular laundry. Some people prefer to wash them separately, but since I’ve already removed most of the blood, I haven’t had issues with this method.

Key MAchine washing tips:

• Always use cold water
• Skip fabric softener (it can reduce absorbency)
• A mild, eco-friendly detergent works best

Washing periods underwear by hand?

If you prefer hand washing, simply soak them in cold water, use a mild detergent, gently scrub, and rinse until the water runs clear.

How to Dry Period Underwear Quickly: The Make-or-break Step

This is where many people accidentally ruin their period underwear. Heat is the enemy – it breaks down the absorbent layers and elastic.

Here’s how to dry them properly:

• Outdoor Drying (Best Option)
  • Sunlight naturally disinfects and helps wash period stains
  • The fresh air keeps them smelling great
• Indoor Drying Options
  • Hanging over a shower rod
  • Using a foldable drying rack
  • Hanging from hangers on a curtain rod

My favorite trick? Wash them in a mesh delicates bag. This makes it easy to pull them all out of the washer at once before transferring other clothes to the dryer.

Storage and Maintenance

Storing period underwear is simple – just fold them and keep them with your regular underwear. I keep mine in a designated basket under my sink for easy access during my cycle.

But here’s my secret weapon: the bi-annual deep clean. Even with proper washing, minerals and residues can build up over time. Twice a year, I give all my period underwear a spa treatment:

1. Fill the bathtub with warm water
2. Add:
   • ¼ cup washing soda
   • ¼ cup borax
   • A squeeze of dish soap
   • ¼ cup laundry detergent
3. Soak for 1-2 hours
4. Rinse thoroughly and wash as normal

This deep clean removes any lingering odors and keeps the fabric fresh. I do this with all my clothes, actually – it makes such a difference!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with perfect care, you might run into these situations:

• Persistent Odors
  • Try soaking in cold water with baking soda
  • Make sure they’re completely dry before storing
• Decreased Absorbency
  • It might be due to detergent buildup – do a vinegar rinse
  • It could mean it’s time to replace them
• Stains
  • Sun drying is nature’s bleach
  • Don’t stress – stains don’t affect performance
  • Need to remove period stains? A hydrogen peroxide soak can help

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