Let’s explore some easy and discreet tips for cleaning your menstrual cup on campus, including the use of a Shaker Cup and DIVA Wash, changing it in the shower, or two ways of using boiling water.
Why Menstrual Cups While at School?
Before we delve into the cleaning methods, let's quickly recap why menstrual cups are a popular choice for many students. Menstrual cups are reusable, environmentally friendly, and can be more cost-effective than disposable products in the long run. They can hold more fluid than tampons and provide leak-free protection for up to 12 hours, making them an ideal choice for those with busy campus schedules.Before First Use
Boiling your cup to sterilize it before your first use is a must. However, continuing to cleanse it in this way cycle after cycle isn’t a requirement. Thoroughly washing it with clean water and a cleanser like DIVA Wash is adequate for ensuring it is safe to reuse. Always also remember that storing your cup in a breathable cotton bag between uses and away from heavily fragranced products is essential for safe use.Cleaning Your Menstrual Cup Discreetly
1. The Shaker Cup:The DIVA Shaker Cup is a handy tool for properly cleaning your menstrual cup discreetly in a shared bathroom. Here's how it works:
Step 1: Fill the Shaker Cup with water.
Step 2: Add a small amount of DIVA Wash (or a mild, unscented, oil-free, and non-antibacterial soap) to the water.
Step 3: Place your menstrual cup inside the cup and securely close the lid.
Step 4: Shake the cup vigorously for a minute, ensuring the soapy water thoroughly cleans your cup.
Step 5: Empty the contents of the Shaker Cup and rinse your cup with clean water.
The Shaker Cup is discreet, and the shaking process ensures your cup is cleaned thoroughly without the need for direct contact or additional equipment. Remember to rinse your menstrual cup well to remove any soap residue before reinserting.
2. Changing in the Shower:
Another discreet way to manage your menstrual cup while on campus is to change and/or clean it in the shower. Showers are private spaces, making it easier to clean your cup thoroughly without worrying about prying eyes.
Step 1: In the shower, carefully remove your menstrual cup.
Step 2: Rinse it with cold water to remove menstrual fluid.
Step 3: Apply a small amount of DIVA Wash or another suitable mild soap to your cup.
Step 4: Gently scrub your cup with your hands to ensure it's clean.
Step 5: Rinse your cup thoroughly with clean, warm water.
Step 6: Reinsert your cup once it's clean or place it somewhere to airdry before packing it away for your next cycle.
Changing your menstrual cup in the shower is not only discreet but it might also provide you with an opportunity to clean it more thoroughly.
3. Boiling Water:
Sterilizing your menstrual cup with boiling water may be your preference—although not necessary. Here's how to do it discreetly in a dorm room or shared kitchen:
Step 1: Wait for a time when you have some privacy.
Step 2: Fill a small pot with enough water to fully submerge your menstrual cup.
Step 3: Place the pot on a stove or hotplate and bring the water to a rolling boil.
Step 4: Once the water is boiling, carefully add your cup and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes.
Step 5: Using tongs or a spoon, remove your cup and let it cool before rinsing it with clean water.
This method is thorough, but it may be essential you have privacy for about 15 minutes, if you want to do it discreetly.
Pro Tip: In a pinch, you can also boil the kettle, place your menstrual cup in a ceramic mug, fill the mug with the boiled water until the cup is submerged, cover with a small plate and leave it steeping for 5 minutes. This can also be an effective strategy for cleaning between cycles.
Never soak the DIVA Cup in hydrogen peroxide, bleach, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or any other harsh cleansing agents. If you have, it's unfortunately best to replace your cup.
Always remember to prioritize proper care and hygiene to make your period management as stress-free as possible! And if, by chance your roommate spies your DIVA Cup, it’s nothing to be embarrassed about! Maybe they’re DIVA fans also and you have more in common than you’d thought.
