How to sterilize a period cup?
Simple Steps to Keep Your Menstrual Cup Clean and Safe
Menstrual cups are a fantastic eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to pads and tampons. To keep your period cup hygienic and safe for repeated use, proper sterilization is essential—especially before and after each menstrual cycle.
In this post, we’ll walk you through why sterilizing matters and how to do it correctly at home.
Why Sterilize Your Menstrual Cup?
Your menstrual cup collects menstrual fluid inside your body, so it’s important to keep it free from bacteria, viruses, and fungi that could cause infections or irritation.
While rinsing and washing during your period is important, sterilization is a deep cleaning step that kills nearly all microbes on your cup, ensuring it’s perfectly safe for the next cycle.
When Should You Sterilize Your Menstrual Cup?
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Before your first use of the cycle: Sterilize before inserting your cup for the first time each period.
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After your period ends: Clean and sterilize before storing your cup until next use.
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If you notice any discoloration, odor, or residue: Sterilizing can refresh your cup.
How to Sterilize a Menstrual Cup at Home: Step-by-Step
1. Boiling Method (Most Popular)
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Fill a pot with enough water to fully submerge your cup.
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Bring the water to a rolling boil.
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Carefully place your cup in the boiling water.
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Boil the cup for 3 to 5 minutes.
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Make sure the cup does not touch the bottom of the pot directly to avoid melting or warping—use a whisk or a small steamer basket to keep it suspended.
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Remove the cup carefully with clean tongs or a spoon.
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Let it cool on a clean surface before use.
2. Microwave Sterilizing (If Allowed)
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Some cups come with microwave-safe sterilizing bags—follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Add water and place the cup inside the bag, then microwave for the recommended time.
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Never microwave the cup directly without water or in a sealed container.
3. Sterilizing Tablets or Solutions
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Use sterilizing tablets made for baby bottles or reusable medical items.
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Dissolve a tablet in water and soak your cup for the recommended time (usually 15-30 minutes).
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Rinse thoroughly with clean water before use.
What Not to Do When Sterilizing
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Don’t use bleach, alcohol, or harsh chemicals—they can damage your cup and irritate your skin.
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Don’t leave your cup soaking in water for days—it can cause mold or degrade the material.
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Avoid abrasive scrubbing or harsh soaps during sterilization.
Extra Tips for Menstrual Cup Care
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Always wash your hands before handling your cup.
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Rinse and wash your cup with mild, unscented soap during your period.
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Store your cup in a breathable cotton pouch (usually provided), never in an airtight container.
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Inspect your cup regularly for cracks or damage and replace it if needed.
Final Thoughts
Sterilizing your menstrual cup is a simple but essential step to keep your period care safe, fresh, and comfortable. Boiling your cup for 3–5 minutes is the easiest and most effective way to ensure it’s clean and ready for use.
🛒 Ready to try a safe, easy-to-clean menstrual cup?
Check out our selection of high-quality cups at NYXCOLLECTION— because your health and comfort matter every cycle.