How to Use and Clean a Menstrual Cup: Step-by-Step Guide

Menstrual cups are becoming increasingly popular as an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and comfortable alternative to disposable pads and tampons. If you're curious or new to using one, this complete guide walks you through how to use a menstrual cup, how to clean it properly, and where to buy high-quality options.

🩸 Step-by-Step: How to Use a Menstrual Cup

1. Wash Your Hands

Always wash your hands with soap and warm water before inserting or removing the cup to prevent infections.

2. Fold the Cup for Insertion

There are a few ways to fold your cup — the most common are:

  • C-fold

  • Punch-down fold

  • 7-fold

Choose one that feels easy to insert for you.

3. Get into a Comfortable Position

You can squat, stand with one leg raised, or sit on the toilet — whatever helps you relax your pelvic muscles.

4. Insert the Cup

Hold the folded cup and insert it into your vagina at an angle toward your lower back (not straight up). Let it open inside — you might feel a gentle “pop” when it forms a seal.

5. Check for Seal

Gently rotate the cup or run a finger around the base to ensure it’s fully open. A proper seal prevents leaks.

6. Wear Up to 12 Hours

Depending on your flow, a cup can be worn safely for up to 12 hours without changing — even overnight!

7. Remove the Cup

  • Wash your hands.

  • Pinch the base of the cup to break the seal.

  • Gently pull it out and keep it upright to avoid spills.

8. Empty the Contents

Pour the menstrual fluid into the toilet and rinse your cup before reinserting or storing.

✨ How to Clean a Menstrual Cup

🧼 After Each Use:

  • Rinse with cold water first (to avoid stains).

  • Then wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals or antibacterial soaps — they may damage the silicone.

🔥 Between Cycles:

  • Boil your cup in water for 5–10 minutes to sterilize it.

  • Let it air dry and store it in a breathable pouch (never in a sealed plastic bag or container).

🛍️ Recommended Menstrual Cup Brands

Here are some trusted, high-quality menstrual cup brands available online:

1. Nyx Collection

  • Website: NyxCollection.com

  • Product Highlight: Known for leak-proof, body-safe designs and minimalist packaging.

  • Why We Love It: Soft, flexible cups great for beginners, and a women-led brand focused on sustainable period care.

2. OrganiCup (Now AllMatters)

  • Website: https://allmatters.com

  • Product Highlight: Certified vegan and organic, comes with a cotton storage pouch.

  • Eco Credentials: Packaging is fully recyclable, and their products are registered with The Vegan Society.

3. Saalt

  • Website: https://www.saalt.com

  • Product Highlight: Elegant design, soft and firm options for different body types.

  • Bonus: 2% of profits go toward education and sustainability programs.

4. Lena Cup

  • Website: https://lenacup.com

  • Product Highlight: Affordable and beginner-friendly, made in the USA with FDA-approved silicone.

🌎 Why Make the Switch?

  • 🌱 Eco-friendly: One cup lasts up to 10 years and replaces thousands of disposable products.

  • 💸 Cost-effective: Save hundreds of dollars over time.

  • 💚 Comfortable: Once inserted properly, you won’t even feel it.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Don’t be discouraged if using a menstrual cup feels tricky at first — it takes most people 1–3 cycles to get comfortable. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll love the freedom and sustainability it offers.

Your period doesn’t have to be wasteful. Make the switch, and make a difference.

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