A Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Your Period Panties

If you’ve made the investment in a pair of leak-proof period panties, you probably know that there’s a ton of value in long-lasting products like these. This step-by-step wash guide will help you keep your period panties as fresh, clean, and comfy as the day you bought them—‘cause there’s nothing that gets us through that time of the month like your favorite absorbent layers.

Step 1: Rinse ‘em in the sink.

Before you throw your period panties in the washing machine, you’ll want to spot-treat with warm water and soap—especially if you’ve had a particularly heavy flow. Let the water get nice and sudsy and rinse out the fabric until the water you strain runs clear. Easy peasy!

Step 2: Throw ‘em for a loop on the cold cycle.

Whenever laundry day rolls around, go ahead and throw your rinsed period panties in the washer with the rest of your clothes! Your period panties don’t need to be washed separately, but if you’re a strong believer in the power of Ultra Downy (guilty as charged), then you’re gonna want to skip the fabric softener on this load. Fabric softener tends to leave a thin, waxy coat on the threads of your clothes—and no matter how soft it is or how good it smells, there’s no denying that it affects the moisture-wicking properties of your period panties. Err on the safe side and just stick with your regular laundry detergent—without softeners or bleach.

Step 3: Break up with your dryer.

It’s not you, it’s them. Not only will the heat from your dryer break down the stretchy elastics that make your period panties so comfortable, but it’ll also make the leak-proof layers you depend on throughout the day a little less effective. Plus, the heat from your dryer can also straight-up shrink the fabric—and the last thing you want to do when you’re on your period is wear a pair of underwear that’s too small. I know the dryer can be tempting, but just trust me on this one. You’ll be better off hanging them up or laying them flat to dry.

And there you have it! Your fave period panties will be ready to go for your next cycle.