Give the DivaCup Some TLC

We talked to our experts on our Consumer Experience Team and they provided us with tips and tricks for care and cleansing of your DivaCup.

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Your period is just a few days away and you’re more than ready this month because you’ve finally mastered the DivaCup! From insertion to removal, the DivaCup has been your go-to monthly period accessory!

However, maybe you’re still asking yourself some of the same questions each and every cycle. Questions such as, “How do I possibly clean The DivaCup in a public washroom?” Don’t worry. We have all the answers that you’re looking for! We talked to our experts on our Consumer Experience Team and they provided us with tips and tricks below on care and cleaning for the DivaCup.

Your first cycle

When you first purchased the DivaCup, you most likely experienced an abundance of emotions. From excitement to mild freak-outs, you weren’t really sure how your first cycle using the DivaCup would turn out, but you were hopeful. Anxiously, you removed the DivaCup from the box and examined it, up close and personal, for the first time. Before your period started, you knew that you had to clean the cup before insertion (because the DivaCup User Guide told you so), but with what? How?

Let us explain

Because the DivaCup is made from healthcare grade silicone, there are a few rules to follow! Remember to wash your cup every 10 to 12 hours (basically anytime you remove and insert it) with our DivaWash – a wash that is plant-based, pH balanced and ideal for care of the DivaCup. If you are unable to find DivaWash at your local retailer, using a mild, fragrance and oil-free soap is also a good option. Just be sure to AVOID the following when cleaning the DivaCup as these have been shown to compromise the silicone of the cup: vinegar, rubbing alcohol, tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer, baking soda, pre-moistened wipes, dish washing soap, fragranced soaps, castile/peppermint soap or any other oil based soap as well as bleach or any harsh chemicals

DivaWash is Your New Best Friend

Now that you know what and what not to use when cleaning the DivaCup, I’m sure you’re wondering how to clean it.

As we alluded to already, DivaWash is your new BFF when it comes to cleaning the DivaCup.

When using DivaWash, squeeze a pea-sized amount into your palm and run it under warm water. Form a lather with the wash and use your fingers to clean both the inside and outside of the DivaCup, thoroughly. A good tip is to remove and clean the DivaCup while you’re in the shower!

Rinse DivaWash off the cup completely – no residue! Although plant-based and pH balanced, DivaWash is not a vaginal wash and really all you need for a clean vagina is warm water.

You aren’t done yet. Most importantly, clean the four tiny holes located under the rim of the cup. These four holes aid in airflow and ensure the seal of the cup stays in place once inserted.

Tip: When cleaning the four holes gently stretch them open and remove any leftover debris. You can also fill the cup with water, place your palm over the cup and squeeze. After you’ve cleaned the cup and holes, you can either pat the cup dry with a clean towel or you can leave some water on the cup to aid with insertion.

Cleaning The DivaCup in a public washroom. Yes, public…

One of the most commonly asked questions about the DivaCup is “how do you clean it in a public bathroom?” Let us tell you! Before entering the stall, make sure to wash your hands well with soap and water. Enter the stall and remove the cup. Empty the contents of the DivaCup in the toilet, as you normally would, and wipe the inside of the cup with some damp toilet paper.

Tip: Bring potable water (safe to drink water in a water bottle) into the stall with you! When you get home, or at the next convenient time, thoroughly clean the DivaCup using the proper cleaning instructions.

The same instructions apply when traveling, while at a concert or an event when you simply don’t have access to private washrooms within the 10-12 hours.

My period is over. Where do I put the DivaCup?

Your cycle has ended and it’s time to store your favorite monthly accessory. Luckily, the DivaCup comes with a cute cotton pouch. The pouch is great for travel (doesn’t take up space in your suitcase), while at school and for monthly storage. After your last removal, give the DivaCup a thorough clean and place into the pouch. You want to store your pouch in a place that is dry and breathable. Do not store the DivaCup in a plastic bag, airtight container or a space without airflow. You also want to be sure not to store your pouch beside heavily fragranced items like perfumes or makeup.

When to Replace The DivaCup

One of the most common questions we get asked is: “when should I replace the DivaCup?”. As the DivaCup is regulated as a medical device a general guideline is to replace your cup once a year, but ultimately, it is up to you to decide when it is necessary to replace the cup. Silicone is very durable, but we recommend that you inspect your cup regularly for signs of deterioration (such as a sticky or powdery film, severe discoloration or odor, etc.) or if you experience irritation. If, for any reason, your cup presents the above you may want to consider replacing it. Depending on the factors unique to each woman, like vaginal pH, how well and often the cup is cleaned, what cleansing agents are used, etc., the lifespan may vary.

Microwave and dishwasher safe?

Although many silicone-based products can be cleaned in both the microwave and dishwasher, we do not recommend cleaning the DivaCup in these appliances.

To boil or not to boil

This is often the question. While boiling the DivaCup can help with discoloration and give your cup a more thorough clean, it is not a required cleaning step. Note: the DivaCup will naturally discolor over time, but this will not impair its functionality. Boiling the cup is really a personal choice. If you do decide to boil the DivaCup, be sure to use cookware specifically designated for cup cleaning and keep a careful eye to ensure the water does not boil dry. Once the water has begun to boil, move the cup around for 5 to 10 minutes. Boiling your cup while camping or traveling is also a great cleaning option if potable water is not easily accessible.

Yeast infection: Can I still use my cup?

As if there wasn’t enough to worry about, women are more prone to yeast or bacterial infection during their cycle. If you develop an infection, it is important to not use the DivaCup until the infection has cleared completely. If the cup was worn while the infection occurred, we recommend replacing your cup with a new one to ensure against repeat infection.