Good period hygiene helps you feel comfortable, confident, and supported throughout your cycle. Whether you use a menstrual cup, pads, tampons, or a mix of products, understanding safe period hygiene practices can make your period easier and healthier.
Here’s a clear, Lunette‑style guide to keeping your body and your period products clean, safe, and comfortable.
1. Wash your hands before and after changing products
Clean hands are one of the most important parts of menstrual hygiene. Always wash your hands:
- before inserting a menstrual cup
- before changing a tampon or pad
- after removing any period product
This helps protect your vaginal health and reduces the risk of irritation or infection.
2. Keep your vulva clean — gently
Your vulva needs gentle care, not aggressive washing. Best practices:
- use warm water or a mild, unscented cleanser
- avoid scented soaps, perfumes, and douches
- avoid scrubbing, the vulva is sensitive tissue
The vagina is self‑cleaning. You don’t need internal washes, and they can disrupt your natural balance.
3. Menstrual cup hygiene
If you use a menstrual cup, hygiene is straightforward and low‑waste.
During your period
- Wash your cup with warm water and a mild, unscented soap.
- You can also use a specialist cup wash, such as Lunette Cup Wash, which is formulated to be gentle on medical‑grade silicone and your vaginal environment.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Reinsert once clean.
Between cycles
- Boil your cup for 5 minutes to sanitize it.
- Let it dry completely before storing it.
Why cup hygiene matters?
A clean cup supports:
- vaginal comfort
- balanced pH
- reduced irritation
- long‑term product durability
Menstrual cups are made from medical‑grade silicone, which is non‑absorbent and gentle on vaginal tissue.
4. Change tampons and pads regularly
If you use disposable products:
- change tampons every 4–8 hours
- change pads every 4–6 hours, or sooner if needed
Never exceed 8 hours with a tampon. This reduces the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
5. Wear breathable underwear
Cotton or moisture‑wicking fabrics help keep your vulva comfortable and reduce irritation. Avoid tight, synthetic underwear during your period if you’re prone to discomfort.
6. Stay hydrated and support your body
Hydration supports:
- digestion
- bloating reduction
- energy levels
- overall comfort
Drinking enough water is a simple but effective part of period hygiene and wellbeing.
7. Avoid scented products
Scented pads or tampons, sprays, wipes, and washes can irritate the vulva and disrupt your natural balance. Choose unscented, gentle products whenever possible.
8. Shower regularly
You don’t need to shower more often during your period, but regular showers can help you feel fresh. Focus on:
- warm water
- gentle cleansing
- avoiding harsh scrubs
Your body doesn’t need “deep cleaning” during menstruation — just simple, consistent care.
9. Track your cycle and notice changes
Tracking your cycle helps you understand:
- how your body feels at different phases
- what hygiene practices support your comfort
- when PMS or hormonal changes affect your routine
Cycle awareness is a powerful part of menstrual wellbeing.
10. Dispose of products safely
For disposable products:
- wrap pads and tampons before throwing them away
- never flush tampons or pads - they can cause blockages
- choose reusable options if you want to reduce waste
Menstrual cups create no daily waste, making them one of the most sustainable period hygiene choices.
Menstrual hygiene and your cup: Why it’s easier than you think
Menstrual cups simplify period hygiene because:
- they don’t absorb natural lubrication
- they don’t cause dryness
- they require fewer changes (up to 12 hours of wear)
- they’re easy to clean
- they reduce waste and clutter
For many Lunette users, switching to a cup makes their period feel cleaner, simpler, and more comfortable.
Good period hygiene doesn’t have to be complicated. With clean hands, gentle vulva care, regular product changes, and a simple menstrual cup routine, you can support your comfort and vaginal health throughout your cycle. The more you understand your body and your products, the easier your period becomes.
