How to Wash Stinky Period Underwear: Tips to Remove Odors and Keep Them Fresh

Period underwear is designed to be reusable and durable, but sometimes odors can linger if they’re not washed properly. If your period undies smell bad, don’t worry—here’s how to get them clean and fresh again.

1. Rinse Immediately in Cold Water

  • After wearing, rinse your period underwear in cold water to remove as much blood and bacteria as possible.

  • Cold water prevents stains and odors from setting.

2. Soak Before Washing

  • Fill a basin or sink with cold water.

  • Add a gentle, fragrance-free detergent or a scoop of oxygen-based stain remover (like OxiClean) or baking soda (about 1/4 cup).

  • Soak the underwear for 30 minutes to a few hours to break down stains and odors.

  • Avoid using chlorine bleach as it can damage absorbent layers.

3. Wash Thoroughly

  • Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold or 30°C water.

  • Use a mild detergent free of fragrances, dyes, and fabric softeners.

  • If using a washing machine, place the underwear in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric.

4. Use Natural Odor Fighters

  • Add white vinegar (1/2 cup) during the rinse cycle or soak to neutralize odors.

  • Alternatively, sprinkle baking soda on stubborn odors before washing.

5. Air Dry Completely

  • Hang your period underwear to air dry in a well-ventilated area, ideally out of direct sunlight to avoid fabric damage.

  • Never tumble dry, as heat can degrade waterproof membranes and elastic.

6. Prevent Future Odors

  • Change period underwear every 8-12 hours, or sooner if heavy flow.

  • Rinse immediately after use.

  • Avoid fabric softeners and bleach.

  • Store completely dry to prevent mildew.

Quick Recap

Step Action
Rinse Cold water rinse immediately after use
Soak Cold water + mild detergent or baking soda
Wash Gentle cycle, mild detergent, mesh bag
Odor Fighter Add white vinegar or baking soda
Dry Air dry fully, no tumble drying

Proper washing and care will keep your period underwear fresh, odor-free, and ready for many cycles to come!

Recommended Detergents for Period Underwear

1. All Free Clear Laundry Detergent

  • Fragrance-free, dye-free, hypoallergenic.

  • Gentle on sensitive skin and delicate fabrics.

  • Works well in cold water.

2. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent

  • Plant-based, biodegradable, fragrance and dye free.

  • Great for delicate and performance fabrics.

3. Ecos Liquid Laundry Detergent

  • Made from plant-powered ingredients.

  • Safe for sensitive skin and eco-friendly.

4. The Honest Company Laundry Detergent

  • Mild, fragrance-free, suitable for delicate fabrics and sensitive skin.

Recommended Odor Removers

1. OxiClean MaxForce Laundry Stain Remover

  • Oxygen-based stain and odor remover.

  • Effective on blood stains and odors.

  • Use sparingly and rinse well.

2. Seventh Generation Laundry Stain Remover

  • Plant-based, biodegradable stain and odor remover.

  • Safe for delicates.

3. ECOS Boost Oxygen Whitener & Stain Remover

  • Safe for colors and delicate fabrics.

  • Helps break down odors and stains.

4. White Vinegar (Household)

  • Natural deodorizer.

  • Add 1/2 cup to rinse cycle or soak period underwear in diluted vinegar solution.

5. Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

  • Natural deodorizer and mild abrasive.

  • Add about 1/4 cup to soak water or sprinkle on stains before washing.

Tips for Use:

  • Always follow garment care labels.

  • Test stain/odor removers on a small hidden area first.

  • Avoid bleach and fabric softeners—they can damage absorbent layers.

  • Rinse thoroughly to remove detergent and odor remover residues.

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