Menstrual cup hygiene and care: mistakes to avoid
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Time to read 10 min
Maintaining good intimate hygiene is key to a stress-free period. For anyone who’s chosen to use a menstrual cup, it’s essential to know the mistakes to avoid to ensure not only optimal comfort but also impeccable hygiene and protection.
The menstrual cup is a revolutionary internal period protection. It's practical, highly effective, reliable, affordable, eco-friendly, and comfortable. However, you need to know how to use and care for it properly to get all the benefits.
Learn how to avoid the most common mistakes when using a menstrual cup. Master the right hygiene habits and follow the care steps, and your cup will last for many years! It’ll be a smart investment that pays off quickly!
Whether you’re a teen, a student, an athlete, a swimmer, or a busy woman, find all the best practices for optimal cup use! Louloucup helps you establish a simple, effective, and respectful menstrual routine so you can experience your menstrual cycle calmly and confidently.
In this article:
Hygiene mistakes to avoid 1. Not washing your hands 2. Neglecting to clean between uses 3. Using an unsuitable soap for intimate hygiene 4. Not sterilizing your cup regularly 5. Using harsh chemicals 6. Not changing your cup regularly 7. Storing your cup incorrectly outside of your period Best practices for perfect hygiene 1. Establish a daily hygiene routine 2. Regular sterilization: an essential step 3. Cup care between cycles High-quality hygienic cups: discover the Louloucup collection Conclusion: good hygiene practices FAQ Bonus: Care, Hygiene, and the Cup Discover our Louloucup collection
I. Hygiene mistakes to avoid
1. Not washing your hands
One of the most common mistakes is handling your cup without washing your hands first.
Why is this important?
Washing your hands before inserting or removing the cup helps prevent bacteria from entering the vagina, which can cause infections or irritation. This simple oversight can turn an intimate routine into a health problem.
Our practical tip
Before handling, always wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and warm water. This simple yet effective habit is the first step to perfect hygiene.
FOCUS ON ... THE LOULOU TURQUOISE
- 🪽 Ultra-soft, the Turquoise Louloucup is made of medical-grade silicone.
- 🇫🇷 Premium quality and made in France.
- 🩷 Super flexible, it adapts to every body—even the most sensitive.
- 🌏 Eco-friendly and zero waste.
- ⏳ Economical, the cup lasts for 5 to 10 years!
- 🏊🏼♀️ For everyone: teens, students, active women, athletes, swimmers!
2. Neglecting to clean between uses
It can be tempting to just rinse your cup with clear water, but that may not be enough.
Potential risks
- Bacterial buildup: without thorough cleaning, blood residue and other particles can accumulate, encouraging bacterial growth.
- Bad odors: incomplete cleaning can cause an unpleasant smell, a sign that your cup is no longer as hygienic as it should be.
Louloucup Tips
After each use, rinse your internal period protection with clear water. For a deeper clean, gently wash it with a mild (unscented) soap and rinse thoroughly.
"I chose Louloucup for their eco-friendly commitments. I wanted a French-made cup, and I found it! Even the packaging is recyclable, of course. The cup matches the description—it’s not too soft, otherwise I’d have leaks. I’m very satisfied!" Bérénice. B - Happy user of the Classic Pink Louloucup.
3. Using an unsuitable soap for intimate hygiene
Using a soap that’s too harsh or scented can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora. Practicing good intimate hygiene during your period is important.
The consequences?
-
Mucosal irritation: an unsuitable soap can cause irritation, itching, and redness.
- Imbalance of vaginal flora: products containing fragrances, essential oils, or alcohol can disrupt the vagina’s natural barrier, making infections more likely.
What to choose?
Choose a gentle, fragrance-free soap specifically formulated for intimate hygiene. Look for intimate gels or hygiene products with a neutral pH. Many options are available on the market (in supermarkets as well as in pharmacies and drugstores). Learning to properly wash your vulva is important: check out our valuable tips, recommended products, and the right routine to follow!
4. Not sterilizing your cup regularly
Even with daily washing, it’s essential to sterilize your cup to remove any potentially harmful bacteria.
Why sterilize menstrual cups?
Sterilization destroys microorganisms that don't disappear with simple rinsing. Skipping this step can lead to the development of resistant bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
Sterilization methods
- Boiling water: submerge your internal protection in a pot of boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Make sure your cup is completely underwater.
- Microwave sterilizer: The sterilizer is perfect if you want a quick and effective way to sterilize. Just fill it with water and microwave it for 5 minutes at 750 watts. Louloucup offers two sterilizer models: Turquoise and Pink. It’s available individually or as part of a complete pack with one or two Loulou cups. Remember, our menstrual cup sterilizers are made in France without BPA, latex, or toxic residues.
LOULOUCUP RECOMMENDS...
5. Using harsh chemicals
It can be tempting to use strong chemical cleaners to boost cleaning, but this should be avoided and is actually counterproductive.
Risks
- Cup damage: bleach, white vinegar, or other harsh chemicals can damage the cup’s structure and make it porous.
- Mucosal irritation: These products can, of course, also cause irritation, burning, and allergies.
Recommendation
Only use products designed for intimate hygiene, or natural alternatives like a gentle soap or just water (which is usually enough to wash your vulva). Simplicity is often the best guarantee of safety for your body.
"This isn’t my first cup. But I felt like the one I had before didn’t really suit me. I chose this one because I have a sensitive vagina. I find it super easy to insert, it opens up well, and I don’t feel it at all." - Mathilde. R, happy Louloucup Turquoise user.
FOCUS ON ... THE LOULOU ROSE
- 🪽 Super soft, the Louloucup Rose is made from medical-grade silicone.
- 🇫🇷 Premium quality and made in France.
- 🩷 Slightly firmer, it's perfect for active women and athletes.
- 🌏 Eco-friendly and zero waste.
- ⏳ Affordable and budget-friendly, a cup lasts 5 to 10 years!
- 🏊🏼♀️ For everyone: teens, students, busy women, swimmers!
6. Not changing your cup regularly
Even though a menstrual cup is designed to last several years, it’s important to check its condition and replace it if needed.
Why change it?
- Leak risk: a worn-out or poorly maintained cup can lose effectiveness and cause leaks.
- Hygiene: signs of wear may indicate the cup is no longer completely safe to use.
Louloucup tip :
Always follow the brand’s usage recommendations. At Louloucup, we recommend that you don’t wear your menstrual protection for more than 6 consecutive hours. The Loulou cup lasts at least 5 years if properly cared for, so enjoy it!
7. Storing your cup incorrectly outside of your period
Storing your washable period protection is just as important as cleaning it properly.
- Risks associated with improper storage.
- Development of mold and bacteria: if your medical-grade silicone cup is stored in a damp place or in a non-ventilated container, this can encourage the growth of microorganisms.
- Cross-contamination: storing in a closed pouch without ventilation can trap residual bacteria.
Louloucup’s storage tip:
After cleaning and fully drying, store your favorite period product in a cotton pouch or a breathable container. This keeps it clean, prevents dust buildup, and protects it from light. Your menstrual cup will patiently wait in its pouch for your next cycle, safe and sound.
II. Best practices for perfect hygiene
1. Establish a daily hygiene routine
To get the most out of your washable, eco-friendly period protection and ensure maximum effectiveness, it’s essential to establish a thorough hygiene routine.
Here are some key steps to follow every day during your period:
Wash your hands before handling.
Empty and rinse your cup every time you change it (ideally every 4 to 6 hours).
Wash it with a gentle soap when needed, especially if you notice any residue.
Dry it thoroughly before putting it away. Proper drying prevents mold growth.
2. Regular sterilization: an essential step
Sterilizing your cup is a step that should never be skipped, even if you clean it daily.
Recommended methods
- The boiling water bath: submerge the little inverted silicone cup in a pot of boiling water for 5 minutes. This method is simple and very effective for killing germs.
- The microwave sterilizer: place your cup in the sterilizer’s reservoir (stem down), fill with water, and microwave for 5 minutes at 750 watts. Be careful not to burn yourself when removing it. Let the cup cool for several minutes before using.
- Sterilization between cycles: Before storing your menstrual protection in its pouch, remember to sterilize it. Then let it dry completely on a clean, airy surface.
3. Cup care between cycles
Once your period is over, it’s important to give your reusable internal protection a thorough cleaning to keep it perfectly hygienic for next time.
Clean it thoroughly: use warm water and a gentle soap to carefully wash every part of the cup.
Air dry it: Let your cup dry completely in a clean, dry place before storing it in its cotton pouch.
Check it regularly: Look for tears, wear, or discoloration. If you notice any changes, it might be time to replace it. Pro tip: you can also choose to buy two menstrual cups to alternate, always having a clean one ready and extending their lifespan.
III. Quality menstrual cups: discover the Louloucup collection
Are you ready to take the leap and join the intimate feminine revolution? Check out our collection of Loulou menstrual cups now! Available in soft or firm, two sizes (small or medium), and designed to fit all body types and needs, Loulou cups are gentle and comfortable. These fantastic, healthy, economical, and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional period products are made in France, vegan, cruelty-free, and contain no BPA or latex.
Innovative and accessible, menstrual cups make life easier for swimmers, athletes, and anyone who wants more freedom during their period! Discover our classic Louloucup Rose and our soft Louloucup Turquoise, as well as our great value packs with a sterilizer or two cups!
At Louloucup, we’re proud to support so many women and girls on this intimate and empowering journey. Together, let’s choose a product that’s healthy, eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and respectful of our bodies and the planet.
IV. In conclusion: all the best hygiene and care tips to remember
To sum up, as you’ve gathered, the cup is a practical and revolutionary hygiene product, but it does require a bit of care and diligence!
Good intimate hygiene, thorough daily cleaning, and proper sterilization are key to a long-lasting, high-quality, and eco-friendly period experience.
Here are the key points to remember:
Wash your hands before and after each use to avoid infections.
Use a gentle soap that’s suitable for cleaning your period protection.
Don't neglect cleaning between uses to prevent bacteria buildup.
Sterilize your cup regularly by boiling it in water or using a microwave sterilizer.
Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage your cup.
Store your cup properly in a cotton pouch or a breathable container to keep it clean.
Regularly inspect your cup and replace it if needed.
Taking care of your menstrual cup is, above all, taking care of yourself. By adopting a simple yet thorough hygiene routine, you ensure not only your comfort but also the safety and longevity of your product. Remember, every little step counts, and preventing infections and irritation starts with basic habits: washing your hands, using gentle products, and regularly sterilizing your cup.
Menstrual cups (soft or firm) are fantastic period protection for all women. At Louloucup, we truly believe this. They’re hygienic, easy to use, practical, reliable, and safe for your health—it would be a shame to miss out on their benefits just because of poor maintenance.
With a simple and effective routine, you can experience your period with peace of mind, free from stress and worry. A well-maintained cup means optimal comfort, lasting protection, and an eco-friendly choice.
This complete guide gives you everything you need for flawless hygiene and to avoid common mistakes when caring for your menstrual cup. By following these tips, you’re not only protecting your intimate health but also making an environmentally responsible choice. Thank you for trusting us to support you every day in this meaningful, wellness-focused journey.
Long live the intimate revolution, long live Louloucup!
Discover our Louloucup collection
FAQ: menstrual cup hygiene and care
1. How do I clean my cup while traveling?
When traveling, it’s essential to have a simplified cleaning routine. Pack a small bottle of water, a mild soap, and, if possible, a portable sterilizer or a small pot to boil water (if your accommodation allows it). If that’s not possible, rinse the cup thoroughly with clean water and clean it as soon as you have access to more resources.
2. Can I use intimate soap to clean my cup?
Yes, you can use an intimate wash or intimate gel, as long as it’s fragrance-free and formulated to maintain the balance of vaginal flora (neutral pH). However, it’s recommended to use a gentle, as-natural-as-possible soap with minimal fragrance to avoid any risk of irritation.
3. Is my cup still sterile after being boiled?
Boiling water sterilization is a very effective way to eliminate germs. However, make sure the water is brought to a boil and that your cup is immersed for at least 5 minutes to ensure optimal sterilization. You can sterilize your menstrual cup either with a microwave sterilizer or by immersing it in a pot of boiling water.
4. How do I remove stains from my cup?
Blood stains can appear over time, especially on lighter-colored cups. These stains are signs of use and do not affect the function or effectiveness of your menstrual product. To remove them, you can soak your protection in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide overnight. This hydrogen peroxide soak can be done once a year.
5. Do I need to change my cup after a certain amount of time?
The menstrual cup is a reusable, washable, and durable period product designed to last for years. Its lifespan is estimated at 5 to 10 years! That makes it the most economical and eco-friendly period product on the market today. However, if you notice signs of wear (minor leaks, etc.), we recommend replacing it with a new one.
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