Can you put underwear with period blood in the washing machine?
Yes, you can put underwear with period blood in the washing machine, but it’s important to pre-rinse it first to protect both your underwear and your machine — and to avoid stains or odors.
Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
🩸 How to Wash Period-Stained Underwear in the Washing Machine
✅ Step 1: Rinse with Cold Water First
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Before machine washing, rinse the underwear under cold running water until most of the blood is out.
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This prevents stains from setting (hot water can make stains permanent).
💡 Tip: Gently rub the fabric together while rinsing to loosen blood.
✅ Step 2: Pre-Treat (Optional)
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For older stains, you can apply mild detergent or stain remover directly to the fabric.
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Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before washing.
✅ Step 3: Machine Wash on Cold
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Wash in the machine using the cold or gentle cycle.
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Use a fragrance-free, non-toxic detergent to avoid irritating your skin.
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Wash with similar colors (preferably darks).
🧺 Bonus tip: A mesh laundry bag helps protect delicate underwear during the wash.
❌ Avoid:
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Hot water (sets blood stains)
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Bleach (damages fabric and irritates skin)
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Fabric softeners (can reduce absorbency if you're washing period underwear)
✅ Step 4: Air Dry
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Air drying is best for keeping your underwear in good shape.
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Avoid tumble dryers, especially for period underwear with absorbent layers — heat can damage the fabric.
🧼 Can You Wash Reusable Period Underwear the Same Way?
Yes! Just follow the same steps:
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Rinse with cold water.
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Machine wash on a gentle cycle.
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Air dry flat or hang to dry.
Brands like Thinx, Aisle, and NYX Collection design their underwear to handle machine washing — just skip the heat and softeners.
📝 Final Thoughts
So yes — it’s completely safe and hygienic to put period-stained underwear in the washing machine if you rinse it first and use cold water.
Proper care will:
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Prevent stains
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Protect the fabric
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Keep your underwear fresh for years to come