Menstrual cups are reusable hygiene products, typically made from medical-grade silicone, designed to collect menstrual fluid internally. Proper sanitation is necessary to maintain hygiene and ensure the longevity of the cup’s material. High heat sterilization, often accomplished through boiling, is the most effective method for eliminating bacteria and other microorganisms. This process makes the menstrual cup a safe and durable option for period management.
When to Sterilize Your Menstrual Cup
Boiling a menstrual cup is a sterilization process, which is more intensive than the simple cleaning needed during use. This high-heat treatment is required only twice per cycle to keep the cup safe for use and storage.
The first sterilization should occur just before the cycle begins, preparing the cup for insertion after a period of storage. The second time you must boil the cup is after your cycle has completely finished, right before you put it away for storage. Boiling at the end of the period ensures that any remaining bacteria or buildup is eliminated before the cup is stored in its breathable pouch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Boiling
The boiling process requires a small pot and clean water. Fill a dedicated pot with enough water to completely submerge the cup, and bring the water to a rolling boil on the stove. Once boiling, gently place the cup into the water, ensuring it is fully covered.
Boil the cup for a duration between 3 and 10 minutes, with most guidelines suggesting 5 to 7 minutes for effective sterilization without damaging the silicone. To prevent scorching or melting from resting on the hot pot bottom, place the cup inside a metal whisk. This keeps the cup suspended in the boiling water while maintaining full submersion.
After the time has passed, turn off the heat and carefully remove the cup using a clean utensil, such as tongs. Allow the cup to cool completely and air-dry on a clean surface before handling it or putting it away. Using distilled or filtered water can help prevent the formation of mineral buildup or white residue from hard tap water.
Daily Care and Mid-Cycle Cleaning
During your menstrual cycle, cleaning the cup between changes is necessary. When you remove the cup, first empty the collected fluid into the toilet, and then rinse the cup immediately with cold water. Rinsing with cold water first helps prevent blood from setting and staining the cup material.
After the initial cold rinse, the cup should be washed thoroughly using a mild, unscented, oil-free soap or a specialized menstrual cup cleanser. Avoid soaps containing strong fragrances, oils, or harsh chemicals, as they can degrade the silicone and potentially cause vaginal irritation.
Cleaning Air Holes
Cleaning requires careful attention to the small air holes near the rim of the cup. These can be cleared of any debris by filling the cup with water, covering the top with your palm, and squeezing the cup to force water out through the holes.
This process of rinsing and washing is performed every 4 to 12 hours, or whenever the cup is emptied, before reinsertion. If you are in a public restroom without access to a sink, you can use a small bottle of water for rinsing or temporarily clean the cup with specialized cup wipes before washing it properly later.