How to wash period underwear:

1. 1. Separate the period underwear from the rest of your laundry
2. 2. Rinse the underwear with cold water
3. 3. Machine-wash with cold water
4. 4. Use the “delicates” cycle on your washer
5. 5. Use an enzyme-based laundry detergent pod
6. 6. Hang the underwear up to dry

Period underwear can be way more convenient, comfortable, and sustainable than pads or tampons. The decision to make the switch might be simple. However, what’s not so simple is how to wash period underwear.

Period underwear is made from several different types of fabric designed to soak up liquids, and washing them incorrectly can make them less absorbent. Not to mention you’re dealing with bodily fluids like blood, which can leave stubborn stains if you use the wrong water temperature.

Properly washing period underwear doesn’t just keep them sanitary and stain-free—it ensures they last as long as possible.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about washing period underwear, including what water temperature to use, the best laundry detergent, how to remove stains, and whether you can put them in the dryer.

Let’s get into it.

1. Separate the Period Underwear from the Rest of Your Laundry

When laundry day rolls around, start by separating your period underwear from the rest of your items. This will prevent any stains from transferring onto your other clothes.

It’s also worth noting that menstrual blood can harbor bacteria, so washing period underwear separately ensures that any germs get washed away. Lastly, period underwear often requires gentle washing to preserve its absorbency and elasticity, so separating it helps extend its lifespan.

2. Rinse With Cold Water

Before you put your period underwear in the washing machine, rinse them out with cold water to remove any excess stains or residue. Gently rub the fabric with your fingers until the water runs clear.

Pro tip: Always use cold water when rinsing period underwear, since hot water can cause stains to set into the fabric.

Once you’re done rinsing, let period underwear air dry before moving on to the next step.

3. Machine-Wash With Cold Water

Always wash period underwear with cool or cold water—below 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold water will loosen blood particles from the fabric while also preserving its absorbency and elasticity.

Warm or hot water, on the other hand, can bind blood proteins to the fabric, causing the stains to set into the fabric. Warm water can also quickly wear down delicate fabrics, causing the fibers to shrink or stretch.

4. Use an Enzyme-Based Laundry Detergent Pod

When washing period underwear, you need a laundry detergent that tackles tough stains while also being gentle on the fabric. Specifically, the formula should be enriched with bio-enzymes, which are designed to break down stains in cold water.

That’s where Laundry Sauce Liquid Detergent Pods come in.

Our XL laundry pods have a proprietary blend of bio-enzymes and polymers that lift blood stains and other bodily fluids. Laundry Sauce pods are also 4x more concentrated than traditional liquid laundry detergent, so you can do more with less.

Better yet, our formulas are infused with irresistible scents like Egyptian Rose, French Saffron, and Italian Bergamot to keep your underwear smelling sexy.

5. Use the Delicates Cycle On Your Washer

When machine-washing period underwear, make sure you use the gentle or delicate setting on your washer. Too much agitation during the wash cycle can damage the fibers and reduce their ability to wick away moisture.

Period underwear is usually made of fabrics like microfiber polyester, nylon, lycra, spandex, and liquid-repellent film to keep you dry down there. These fabric types can vary between brands, but you should always wash them on the delicate setting to be safe.

Better yet, put the period underwear in a mesh garment bag before starting the wash cycle for extra protection.

6. Air Dry the Underwear

Once the period underwear is clean, hang them up to air dry. We recommend avoiding putting period underwear in the dryer since the combination of heat and tumbling can shrink or compromise the fabric.

Keep in mind that period underwear can take a bit longer than regular underwear to dry, since they hang onto liquid longer. Be sure to plan your laundry days accordingly so you have fresh pairs handy for the start of your menstrual cycle.

Common Questions About Washing Period Underwear

We’ll never shy away from answering questions—even if they’re about washing your undies.

Can You Machine Wash Period Underwear?

Yes, you can machine wash period underwear. Just make sure you follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, which typically recommend using a gentle cycle and cold water to maintain the integrity of the fabric and absorbent layers.

What’s the Best Laundry Detergent for Period Underwear?

The best laundry detergent for period underwear is a mild, enzyme-based laundry pod. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the absorbent materials and reduce the effectiveness of the underwear.

How Often Should You Change Period Underwear?

Some healthcare professionals recommend changing period underwear every 8-12 hours or more frequently if you have a heavy flow. This ensures that you stay comfortable and hygienic throughout the day.

How Do You Get the Smell Out of Period Underwear?

To get the smell out of period underwear, rinse them in cold water immediately after use and then machine-wash them with laundry detergent. Adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can also help neutralize odors.

How Do You Remove Blood Stains from Period Underwear?

To remove blood stains from period underwear, rinse them in cold water as soon as possible to prevent the stain from setting. You can also soak them in cold water with a bit of mild detergent or use an enzyme-based stain remover before washing them on a gentle cycle.

Keep Your Delicates Clean With Laundry Sauce: The World’s Best-Smelling Laundry Detergent

Period underwear tends to cost more than regular underwear, so you’ll want to make sure you care for it properly. That starts with Laundry Sauce, which has a proprietary blend of bio-enzymes designed to eliminate stains, rejuvenate fabrics, and infuse your clothes with sophisticated scents—all while using cold water that’s safe for your delicates.

Head over here to explore the full collection of Laundry Sauce scents.