How To Actually Wash Period Underwear

There are plenty of product options for folks who get periods, and while none of them can actually make you feel as perfectly-comfortable as when you aren't having your period, there are some that people absolutely swear by. From menstrual cups to good old fashioned pads and tampons, whatever helps you feel clean and protected is generally considered welcome relief. Another such product that some have adopted into their monthly routines are period panties, which are meant to look and feel like everyday underwear while having the power to absorb the menstrual flow (via Grove). While some prefer to wear period panties only on lighter flow days (as they can't always hold quite as much as a super overnight pad), others like wearing them all throughout their period as a layer of backup protection, even while using other absorbance products like tampons. 

And while their reusable nature makes them more environmentally friendly than disposable products, the fact that you don't just toss them out when you're done using them means it's really really important that you clean them thoroughly and properly to protect both your health and the longevity of the panties.    

As Period Panty Reviews reminds us, the first thing to remember is not to panic if your pair seems thoroughly soiled after use, as the designers made them to absorb menstrual blood. In fact, many brands are not only made with stain-resistant fabric, but also feature a black absorbent liner layer, regardless of the color of the panties, to help prevent leaks and stains. So when it comes time to wash them, fear not: they can probably handle both their job and the cleaning process like champs. So how do you clean them?

First, it's a good idea to hand-rinse your period panties in cold water to remove as much of the fluid as possible. This will help prevent staining and also ensure that the panties get thoroughly cleaned in the washing machine (via The Period). Next, you can put them in your washing machine on a gentle cycle with your usual detergent in cool or cold water. You shouldn't any additional stain remover spray or treatment, as the fabric is generally made to withstand blood. When finished, it's a good idea to hang them to dry rather than tossing them in the dryer to preserve the shape and protect the absorbent layers of fabric. That's it!