The Dos And Don'ts Of Washing And Caring For Your Period Underwear

As a busy mom of two little ones, I’m all of anything that makes my life more convenient. One new innovation that has entered my life are period underwear!

Are you new to period underwear and wondering how to care for them? Period underwear is a great way to keep you feeling comfortable and dry during your period. But, it’s important to know how to properly wash and care for them so they last as long as possible. This blog post will go through the dos and don’ts of washing and caring for your period underwear. And there’s a whole section on frequently asked questions about period underwear!

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What is period underwear?

Period underwear is becoming one of the most convenient and eco-friendly ways to manage your menstrual cycle. And it’s like regular underwear! The only difference is that it features special materials and a unique design to help keep you safe, clean, and leak-free during your period.

Bambody Absorbent Panty: Period Panties |…

INNERSY Women’s Hipster Period Underwear…

Hanes Women’s Comfort, Period. Underwear, Moderate…

How does period underwear work?

So how does period underwear even work? Yes, they look like a regular pair of knickers. But period underwear has many layers of absorbent fabrics. These layers work together to hold onto your menstrual flow and prevent leaks. They may also have moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you fresh and dry!

Also, the many layers are designed to be anti-odor and antimicrobial. And super comfortable for you to wear regardless of the activity you’re engaged in that day.

How to Get Rid of Body Odor After Pregnancy

Benefits of period underwear

Period underwear is an innovative way to help tackle the monthly struggle of managing your period. There are many benefits to adding period underwear to your wardrobe.

No leaks. Period underwear helps to prevent embarrassing leaks and keep your clothes clean.
Comfort. The materials used in period underwear are designed with comfort and support in mind. You can stay active without feeling uncomfortable with bulky pads or tampon strings.
Eco-friendly and sustainable. Disposable menstrual products like pads or tampons generate a lot of waste each month. On the flip side, period underwear is reusable and can be washed and worn again. This is great for the environment as you are lowering your carbon footprint.

And as you know from this blog and my blog posts on cloth diapers, I’m all about eco-friendly options that reduce the waste that ends up in landfills!

So now that you know the benefits of period underwear! Let’s talk about how to care for them properly so they last as long as possible.

women with various menstrual products, such as pads and tampons

How to wash and care for your period underwear

Caring for your period underwear properly is key to making them last. Here are the dos and don’ts of washing and caring for them:

Dos

Wash as soon after wearing as much as possible.
Check the care instructions on your period underwear before washing. They may be different than your other laundry items.
After wearing, consider rinsing the gusset under cold running water until the water runs clear.
Use a gentle detergent when washing your period underwear in the washing machine.
Make sure to machine wash your period underwear on a cold/warm and delicate cycle. Hot water can damage the fabric and lead to them wearing out quicker.
Use a mesh bag to protect from snags and tears in the washing machine.
Hang dry your period underwear after washing rather than using a dryer. This will help them last longer and keep their shape better.

Don’ts

Don’t use bleach, fabric softeners, or other harsh chemicals on your period underwear as this can damage them.
Avoid putting your period underwear in the dryer as this heats up the fabric and can cause them to wear out quicker.
Do not use an iron on your period underwear.

Following these simple steps will ensure that your period underwear stays clean and comfortable for as long as possible.

period underwear air drying on clothesline

Period Underwear FAQs

How long can you wear period underwear?

The amount of time you can wear period underwear depends on your flow, but generally, they can be worn for up to 12 hours. Period underwear can also be worn as a backup for traditional period products, such as tampons and menstrual cups.

Can you wear period underwear overnight?

Yes! Period underwear is a great option to wear while sleeping because they are extremely absorbent and comfortable.

How many pairs of period underwear do I need?

This depends on your flow and cycle length. Aim for having at least 3-4 pairs of period underwear in rotation. This ensures you always have a clean and dry pair available. You can always start with less and then add more, if necessary.

How do I know when it’s time to replace my period underwear?

It’s recommended that you replace your period underwear when they start to show signs of wear and tear. This could be anything from the fabric becoming thin or weak, elastic no longer stretching, fraying seams, etc. Furthermore, you should replace your period underwear if they are no longer as absorbent as they once were.

What will happen if I forget to change my period underwear?

If you forget to change your period underwear, it is important to do so as soon as you remember. Period underwear can only hold a certain amount of fluid before it needs to be changed. Failure to do this can lead to leakage and potential skin irritation. If you tend to forget, setting a phone alarm is helpful!

How much does period underwear cost?

The cost of period underwear varies, but typically ranges from around $15 to $30 per pair. But, you can often find packs and bundles that offer discounts for purchasing multiple pairs.

Investing in a few pairs of period underwear will save money in the long run. They are reusable and don’t need to be replaced as often as other period products. Plus, you’ll be doing your part in reducing waste and lowering your carbon footprint.

Can you swim in period underwear?

It depends on the brand of period underwear if you can wear them while swimming. But, some brands are specifically designed for swimming and water activities. These styles feature a special absorbent layer that will help keep you dry and leak-free in the water. Make sure to check the care instructions before wearing them for swimming.

Can you use period underwear for postpartum bleeding?

Yes! Period underwear is an ideal option for postpartum bleeding. They are super absorbent and can hold up against heavy But, be sure to closely track your flow. Postpartum bleeding, also called lochia, can range from light to heavy and can last up to six weeks after giving birth. It is important to switch out your period underwear regularly during this time to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Can you hand wash period underwear?

Yes, you can definitely hand wash your period underwear! Hand washing is an effective and gentle way to clean period underwear and will make them last longer. Simply run your period underwear under cool tap water with a little bit of hand soap or detergent. Gently scrub by rubbing the fabric against itself. Hang dry as normal when finished.

Does period underwear need to be separate from other clothes while washing?

This is up to you. You can either wash period underwear with other clothes or you can choose to separate them from the rest of your laundry. Separating them will help ensure they are cleaned properly and don’t bleed onto other clothing.

If you do decide to mix them in with the rest of your laundry, be sure to use a color-safe detergent and cold water. Additionally, you should always hang dry your period underwear to make them last longer.

How long does it take for period underwear to dry?

Drying your period underwear may take a little longer due to multiple absorbent layers. Especially since it’s not recommended to use the convenience of a dryer! To make your period underwear dry faster, squeeze out excess water or blot with a towel. You can also lay your period underwear flat on a dry towel and roll it up tightly. Press gently to remove the moisture. Unroll and hand your period underwear to dry.

Adding Period Underwear to Your Wardrobe

Period underwear is a great alternative to other period products. They are absorbent, reusable, and eco-friendly. They can be used for postpartum bleeding, swimming, and daily wear. You can hand wash them or machine-wash them with cold water and color-safe detergent. Hang dry is the best way to keep them in good condition.

We hope this article has given you plenty of useful information on period underwear. Period underwear is an excellent alternative to traditional disposable menstrual products and can provide long-term comfort during your period. So, why not give them a try? You won’t regret it!