Deep cleaning period underwear: how to properly wash your panties, swimwear, or cup!
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Time to read 11 min
Caring for your period products is a key step in extending their lifespan, ensuring good performance and maintaining their quality.
Whether you use menstrual panties, menstrual swimwear or menstrual cups, today we’re sharing all the tips and tricks you need to properly deep-clean all your washable, reusable period products.
How do you deep-clean a menstrual panty that smells bad or leaks despite washing? Which products really work to thoroughly clean your period underwear? Hydrogen peroxide, special detergent, sodium percarbonate… which natural stain remover should you use?
Learn how to remove stubborn **yellow stains**, neutralize unpleasant odors (even fishy smells!) and adopt a gentle yet effective daily care routine to preserve your panties, swimsuits or menstrual cups, while respecting your skin, your health and the environment.
In this article
Recognizing build-up: unmistakable signs What is build-up in a sanitary product? The 4 telltale signs of build-up The simple test to confirm the diagnosis: the water drop test The foolproof method to deep-clean your period underwear: a step-by-step guide The miracle product: why sodium percarbonate is your best ally The full tutorial: deep cleaning with sodium percarbonate Directions for use and deep-cleaning frequency SOS odours and stains: solutions for desperate cases Eliminate stubborn odours (even fishy smells) Getting rid of stubborn stains (dried blood, yellow marks) Prevent build‑up: good everyday care habits The ideal washing routine for long-lasting panties medium or normal flow, And what about my cup and my period swimsuit? Cleaning and sterilizing your menstrual cup Caring for your menstrual swimsuit To sum up
At ovulation, cervical mucus reaches peak fertility. It allows sperm to survive for up to 5 days, compared with just a few minutes without it. This ability is crucial because it widens the fertile window. Unprotected sex during this time increases the chances of pregnancy by 30%, according to studies. Learn more Washable and organic menstrual protections?
At ovulation, cervical mucus reaches peak fertility. It allows sperm to survive for up to 5 days, compared with just a few minutes without it. This ability is crucial because it widens the fertile window. Unprotected sex during this time increases the chances of pregnancy by 30%, according to studies. Learn more Washable and organic menstrual protections?
Recognizing build-up: unmistakable signs
How do you know if your period underwear is clogged? A few signs don’t lie! Build-up caused by limescale, glycerin or blood residue reduces its absorption capacity (it saturates faster and doesn’t last as long) and creates persistent odors (really unpleasant).
What is build-up in a sanitary product?
The phenomenon of clogging results from an accumulation of residues in the fibers of the absorbent fabric. These residues come from various sources: water limescale, laundry glycerin, or leftover blood not removed.
Contrary to popular belief, this is not a sign of poor hygiene, but a mechanical process linked to wear and washing. Glycerin, found in some detergents or Marseille soaps, clogs the fabric’s pores and reduces its effectiveness. Surprisingly, even products considered “natural” can alter the technical properties of these protections. Dried blood trapped in the core of the absorbent layer remains and resists washing. Finally, limescale in the water builds up and gets trapped in this thick fabric. In short, it’s actually quite logical that period underwear gets clogged over time with repeated use.
Outside of your usual washes, we also recommend doing a deep clean at least once a year.
The 4 telltale signs of build-up
Loss of absorbency and leaks: The panty or swimsuit takes longer to absorb fluids or leaves marks on clothing, even though it used to work well. That’s normal: the absorbent layer is already saturated with period residue, limescale and detergent.
Persistent bad odours: Despite regular washing, an unpleasant smell (reminiscent of damp or “old” blood) lingers, a sign that bacteria are trapped in the remaining residue.
Fabric that becomes rough or “cardboard-like”: The fabric loses its usual softness and becomes unpleasant to the touch, often due to a buildup of limescale or detergent.
Stains that won’t come out: Brownish, white, yellow or red marks remain visible despite washing, indicating that the blood has set into the fibers.
Noticing these different signs? Then your panty or swimsuit is clogged up!
The simple test to confirm the diagnosis: the water drop test
Here’s a foolproof way to check the condition of your menstrual underwear. On a clean, dry pair, place a few drops of water on the absorbent area (the inside of your underwear).
If the water beads and takes time to be absorbed (more than 10 seconds), the fibers are clogged and saturated with dirt. Conversely, rapid absorption confirms that the fabric is in good condition.
This test, inspired by protocols used to assess the absorbent capacity of period underwear, allows you to pinpoint the problem clearly and unambiguously.
The foolproof method to deep-clean your period underwear: a step-by-step guide
The miracle product: why sodium percarbonate is your best ally
Sodium percarbonate is an essential ally for reviving your menstrual lingerie. Ecological and effective, it acts as a stain remover, deodorizer, and cleaner without damaging technical fabrics. Unlike bleach, it preserves the elasticity of fibers and the effectiveness of the anti-leak barrier.
Its magic kicks in as soon as it comes into contact with hot water. It releases active oxygen, removing stubborn residues. A well‑kept secret? It revives whites without fading colours and leaves no harsh chemical residue. Perfect for anyone who wants to protect their investment while combining hygiene and durability.
The full tutorial: deep cleaning with sodium percarbonate
- Preparation: Fill a bucket with very hot water (at least 60°C). Avoid boiling water so as not to damage the waterproof layer.
- Dosage: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sodium percarbonate per liter of water. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Soaking: Submerge your washed and dry period products (this works for the cup, swimsuits and underwear). Leave to act for at least 4 hours, or even overnight for severe build-up.
- Final rinse: Rinse thoroughly with clear water until it runs clean. Machine wash at 30°C with no detergent for a deep clean.
- Drying: air-dry only, never tumble dry. Lay the absorbent area flat for optimal drying.
This descaling and disinfecting process restores absorbency and removes lingering odors. With this deep clean, your menstrual protection regains its original freshness in just a few simple steps.
Smart tip: if stains remain, repeat the process after gently brushing the affected area.
Directions for use and deep-cleaning frequency
Avoid mixing it with vinegar or lemon.
Store in a dry place, out of reach of children.
Store in its original packaging, away from moisture and high heat.
By following these few percarbonate cleaning tips, you avoid premature degradation, saturation, leaks, unpleasant odors, and discomfort. Your lingerie and protections remain effective and comfortable, month after month. Regular maintenance and an annual effective cleaning ensure optimal hygiene and guaranteed menstrual serenity.
SOS odours and stains: solutions for desperate cases
Eliminate stubborn odours (even fishy smells)
A persistent smell in your washable products often comes from bacteria. How can you get rid of bad odours?
Soak your pads in a mixture of cold water and a glass of white vinegar for 30 minutes. This duo neutralizes odors, removes limescale and prevents soap residue from building up. White vinegar works deep down without damaging the fabrics, making it ideal for keeping your pads in good condition.
Did you know? A fishy odour can reflect a temporary vaginal imbalance. Factors such as a forgotten tampon, sexual intercourse or hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, menopause) can sometimes disrupt vaginal pH. You can still use the vinegar method to disinfect. If the odour persists on your skin or is accompanied by itching, unusual discharge or pain, consult a healthcare professional.
Baking soda tips: sprinkle baking soda on the absorbent area and leave it for a few hours; it neutralizes odors and absorbs residual moisture for long-lasting freshness.
Getting rid of stubborn stains (dried blood, yellow marks)
For dried blood stains, ox gall soap or hydrogen peroxide work well.
Dampen the stain with cold water, rub vigorously for 10 seconds with ox gall soap, leave for 15 minutes, then brush and wash at a low temperature. Ox gall, derived from animal bile, breaks down blood proteins thanks to its natural acids.
Soaking in water plus hydrogen peroxide is also effective on light‑colored lingerie that has been stained.
For yellow stains caused by the acidity of secretions, mix baking soda with cold water into a paste. Apply for one hour.
On light-colored fabrics, lemon juice acts as a natural whitener, especially when combined with exposure to sunlight.
Sommières clay, used as a paste, lifts stubborn marks by absorbing embedded residue.
For stubborn stains, a soak in sodium percarbonate (a paste made with cold water) will bring the fabrics back to life.
Good to know: some yellow discoloration is inevitable on organic cotton with repeated use. To limit it, rinse immediately in cold water after use. Avoid hot water: it sets stains and damages the fibers.
Prevent build‑up: good everyday care habits
Losing an effective pair of period underwear after just a few months because of poor care is an avoidable frustration. By following a few simple steps, you preserve absorption and reduce unpleasant odours.
The ideal washing routine for long-lasting panties
Following a thorough washing routine guarantees a longer lifespan for your products. Here are the three key steps:
Immediate rinsing in cold water: hot water sets blood and stains by coagulating menstrual proteins. Rinse immediately after use until the water runs clear. This simple step prevents 80% of stubborn stains.
Machine (or hand) wash: Wash at 30°C on a delicate cycle, using a laundry bag to protect delicate fabrics. Choose a mild, non-greasy soap or an eco-friendly detergent without synthetic fragrance.
Air‑drying is essential: tumble dryers and direct heat sources damage the fabrics. Lay flat or hang to dry in a well‑ventilated area. Moderate sun exposure naturally disinfects without affecting the technical properties.
medium or normal flow,
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Product to avoid |
Why you should avoid it |
| Oily detergents (rich in glycerin) and glycerin-based Marseille soap |
Glycerine clogs the pores of the absorbent fabric, forming a waterproof film that reduces its absorbency. |
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Fabric softener / Conditioner |
Fabric softeners coat the fibres in a greasy layer, completely blocking the fabric’s absorbency. |
| Bleach and chlorine-based whitening agents |
Extremely harsh, these products destroy the waterproof membrane and weaken the fabrics. |
| Strong chemical stain removers |
These products may contain harsh solvents that damage the technical layers of your protection. |
By choosing quality products such as Louloucup menstrual products and caring for them properly, you’re opting for periods that are clean, calm, hygienic, eco-friendly and inexpensive.
And what about my cup and my period swimsuit?
Washable period products require careful maintenance to preserve their effectiveness. For your menstrual swimsuit as for your cup, a few key habits are essential to prevent build-up and keep them in good condition for a long time.
Cleaning and sterilizing your menstrual cup
✅ The right habits for a clean cup:
Rinse the cup in cold water every time you empty it. Then rinse with lukewarm water and a gentle soap or intimate wash. Avoid vinegar and percarbonate, which damage silicone. For the air holes, fill the cup with water and shake it while sealing the rim with your palm.
Sterilize it for 5 to 10 minutes in boiling water between each cycle (at the beginning and end of your cycle). For stains, a bath in 3% hydrogen peroxide for a few hours is enough. Sun exposure naturally disinfects it without damaging the material.
❌ Things to avoid if you want a clean cup:
Avoid harsh products: highly processed chemical detergents.
Storing it away while it’s still damp or in a space that isn’t ventilated.
Caring for your menstrual swimsuit
After swimming, remove your swimsuit and rinse it with cold water to remove menstrual flow as well as saltwater or chlorinated water.
Once you’re back from the beach or pool, wash your swimsuit in the machine or by hand at 30°C in a laundry bag, without fabric softener. For stains, use baking soda before washing.
Air‑dry your swimwear, avoiding direct sunlight. Skip the tumble dryer, radiator or hair dryer: heat weakens the fibers.
To sum up
The clogging of menstrual panties results from the accumulation of dried blood residues, greasy detergent, and limescale, reducing their absorption, effectiveness, comfort, and softness.
A 4-hour soak in hot water with sodium percarbonate restores their effectiveness without damaging the technical fabrics. It’s an excellent deep clean. An eco-friendly, budget-friendly way to extend their lifespan and prevent odours and stubborn stains. Harsh chemical products are unnecessary; always prioritise simple, household ingredients to clean your washable menstrual products.
And don’t forget! At Louloucup all our period products are at mini prices. Eligible for our custom bundle with sliding-scale pricing, you can save a lot. Plus, shipping is free! So go for it!
At ovulation, cervical mucus reaches peak fertility. It allows sperm to survive for up to 5 days, compared with just a few minutes without it. This ability is crucial because it widens the fertile window. Unprotected sex during this time increases the chances of pregnancy by 30%, according to studies.
How do you remove blood stains from a period panty?
To remove blood stains, start by rinsing immediately in cold water after use. For set-in stains, gently rub with gall soap. Sodium percarbonate is also effective: dissolve a tablespoon in hot water (at least 60°C), soak the panties for several hours, then wash at 30°C without fabric softener. Avoid boiling water, which can set the residue.
Why do my period panties smell like fish?
This unpleasant smell is often linked to bacterial overgrowth due to insufficient rinsing or overly long drying. It can also reflect an intimate imbalance, in which case a medical consultation is recommended. To deodorize, soak the panties for 30 minutes in cold water with a tablespoon of white vinegar. This mixture neutralizes bacteria and persistent odors. Once air-dried, the panties will regain optimal freshness.
How to remove yellow stains from menstrual panties?
Yellow stains often come from acidic secretions or deodorant residue. To remove them, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stain and leave it for 1 hour before washing. Diluted lemon juice in cold water is a gentle alternative for light fabrics. For older stains, soaking for several hours in sodium percarbonate (1 tablespoon in 5L of hot water) will help restore the fabric’s brightness.
How do you care for a cup and a period swimsuit?
For the cup, rinse it with cold water after each emptying and disinfect it at the beginning and end of your cycle by immersing it in boiling water for 5 minutes. In case of stains, soaking it in white vinegar or sodium percarbonate is recommended. For the swimsuit, a cold-water pre-rinse after use followed by a machine wash at 30°C in a laundry bag prevents build-up. Avoid the tumble dryer and ironing, and use gentle detergents without glycerin. Sun-drying in UV light further boosts hygiene.
Learn more
Washable and organic menstrual protections?
