How to Wash Period Underwear (And Keep Them Working Their Best)

As Australians increasingly move toward sustainable period care, so you've made the switch to period underwear: welcome to the comfortable side. Now comes the question nobody really prepares you for: how exactly do you wash these things? It's not as complicated as it sounds, but getting it right matters. The way you care for your period underwear directly affects how long they last and how well they perform. Here's everything you need to know.

Why Washing Period Underwear Properly Actually Matters

Period underwear is made with multiple functional layers: a moisture-wicking top layer, an absorbent middle layer, and a leak-proof barrier. Each of these layers does a specific job, and harsh washing habits can break them down faster than necessary. Using the wrong temperature, the wrong products, or the wrong drying method can reduce absorbency over time and shorten the lifespan of your underwear significantly. The good news? The right approach is simple.

Step 1: Rinse First (Yes, Before the Wash)

Before throwing your period underwear in the machine or a basin, give them a cold rinse first. Hold them under cold running water and gently squeeze until the water runs clear. This removes the bulk of the blood before washing, which protects the fibres and prevents staining from setting. Cold water is key here;  hot water sets blood stains rather than lifting them.

How to Machine Wash Period Underwear

Machine washing is the easiest method and perfectly fine for most period underwear, including Boody's Period & Leak Proof Underwear.

Use cold water: always. Hot water damages the leak-proof layer and can cause shrinkage.

• Select a gentle or delicate cycle to protect the fabric structure.

• Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Avoid anything with bleach or optical brighteners.

• Skip the fabric softener: this is important. Softener coats the fibres and reduces absorbency over time.

• Place your period underwear in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection if washing with other items.

• Wash with similar colours to avoid any colour transfer.

That's it. Genuinely that straightforward.

How to Hand Wash Period Underwear

Hand washing is a great option if you want to be gentle on the fabric, or if you need to wash a pair quickly while travelling. Here's how:

• Fill a basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water (never hot).

• Add a small amount of mild detergent and swirl to dissolve.

• Submerge the underwear and gently agitate with your hands for a couple of minutes.

• Pay attention to the gusset area: this is where most of the absorption happens.

• Rinse thoroughly under cold running water until all soap is removed.

• Gently squeeze out excess water: don't wring or twist, as this stresses the fibres.

How to Dry Period Underwear

Air drying is always the best option for period underwear. Hang them or lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight. Direct sun can fade colours over time, but more importantly, high heat from tumble dryers damages the elastic and the leak-proof membrane. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting, but air drying will always extend the life of your underwear.

What NOT to Do

• No hot water: it sets stains and damages the leak-proof layer.

• No bleach or harsh stain removers: these break down the fabric and ruin the absorbent layers.

• No fabric softener: it coats fibres and reduces absorbency.

• No tumble drying on high heat: heat degrades elastic and the leak-proof membrane.

• No ironing:  bamboo viscose doesn't need it and the heat can damage functional layers.

How Often Should You Wash Period Underwear?

Always wash period underwear after each wear, just like regular underwear. Never leave worn period underwear sitting in a damp pile for extended periods, as this can lead to bacteria growth and odour. If you can't wash them immediately, rinsing and air drying until you can is better than leaving them wet.

Care Tips for Boody Period Underwear

Boody's Period & Leak Proof Underwear is made from bamboo viscose, a naturally breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that's gentle on sensitive skin. The bamboo fibres have natural antibacterial properties, which helps with freshness, but proper washing is still essential. With the right care routine, a quality pair of period underwear should last 2-3 years with regular use.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you machine wash period underwear?

Yes, you can machine wash period underwear on a gentle cycle in cold water with mild detergent. Skip the fabric softener and air dry.

Can you use fabric softener on period underwear?

No, using fabric softener coats the absorbent fibres and significantly reduces how much liquid your period underwear can hold. Avoid it entirely.

How often should you wash period underwear?

You should wash your period underwear after every single wear, it is the same as regular underwear. Rinse first, then wash.

How long do period underwear last?

With proper care, cold washing, no softener, air drying, quality period underwear can last 2-3 years. Boody's bamboo viscose is durable and gets softer with each wash.

Can you wash period underwear with other clothes?

Yes, you can wash period underwear with other clothes as long as you've rinsed them first and use a mesh laundry bag. Wash with similar colours on a cold gentle cycle.