Menstruators can get quite hung up about smelling during their periods. It’s perfectly natural for there to be some slight odor but if you’re concerned about a strong smell do go and see your doctor. The good news is that if you think the funky smell is coming from your period cup, there are things you can do about it.
How to keep your period cup fresh
It can be a good idea to boil your cup for 20 minutes before and after your period, for the cleanliness of your cup and the health of your vagina. Make sure you use a deep pot to boil your menstrual cup otherwise you will risk burning or warping your menstrual care device. Check out full details on ‘How to clean’.
Alternatively, use liquid soaps or cup wipes that have been specifically formulated for menstrual cups. These washes are designed to clean the cup properly without leaving any residue. Avoid any that include oils, colorants or scents as they may leave chemicals on the cup. Some ingredients also harm the silicone material. A normal vaginal pH level is between 3.8 and 4.5, which is moderately acidic. Look for cleansing products that have a similar PH balance.
Never, ever put your period cup in the dishwasher!
There are some alternatives that you can use, if you don’t have cup wipes or a proper liquid wash at hand.
Wipe thoroughly or soak your menstrual cup for an hour with vinegar. Pro tip: You can also use a toothpick soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean out your menstrual cup holes. Boil your cup AGAIN for 20 minutes and allow your cup to air dry in the sun completely before use. Leaving the cup to soak in the sun helps with discoloration or smells – but it’s not always the most practical solution!
Finally, you can make a solution of half water and half vinegar and soak your menstrual cup for an hour. You already know what to do next! We'll give you a hint: boil your cup for 20 minutes!
I found boiling doesn’t get rid of the smell much but sitting it in a sunny window for awhile always does!😃 however this isn’t always easy in the winter and on a side note make sure it is placed high as apparently a puppy/dog will grab it and toy on this new “toy” 😳🤢 or so I have discovered
Hi Beatrice!
We do not recommend using toothpaste on your menstrual cup- this can cause damage to your cup, and can also affect your vaginal pH balance, which could lead to infection.
Best,
Team Lunette
Toothpaste works like a charm!
I am using two different types of cup, one made of silicone and the other of some different kind of material (not latex). The silicone one smells horrible at the end of my period, the other one does not. Maybe it’s about the material…
I have found tea tree oil between uses removes the smell and I figure it has anti-bacterial properties so that has to be a plus right?