how to wash period underwear
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How To Extend the Lifespan of Period Underwear

Following proper care and cleansing practises is the key to extending the lifespan of your DIVA products and getting the most out of your investment. DIVA Period Underwear is no different. Check out these 4 ways to care for and protect the integrity of your new favorite leakproof pair!
how to wash period underwear
Imagine you’re doing laundry and you come to your new DIVA Period Underwear. Before tossing them in the washing machine with the rest of your clothes, what quick steps could you take ahead of time to ensure they last a long time? After all, the longer they work for you, the more money you will save and the easier your period will continue to be!
 
DIVA Period Underwear is reusable period underwear that moves with you. It’s silky, 4-way stretch design provides you with all-day comfort and leak protection that hugs your body and is almost invisible under your clothes. High absorbency protection means it absorbs up to 9 regular tampons of flow while wicking away moisture and warding off odor with the ultra-thin, DryTec ™ zinc-infused gusset.
 
Wearing period underwear is just like using pads and tampons, but with the added benefit of reusability (and superior comfort and protection!). If you’re wondering, “how long do period underwear last?”, the answer is individualized—based on wear-time and flow volume, —but there are also steps anyone can take to help increase their longevity.

1. Rinse Thoroughly in Cold Water Before Laundering

Although it’s not required, you might choose to rinse your period underwear before laundering to try to prevent stains from naturally developing over time. Depending on your flow, this could be when you remove the bulk of menstrual flow from the absorbent material, preventing it from sitting in the fabric for longer periods of time.  
 
As with other DIVA products, there is a lot of variability with the frequency of use, individual anatomical and physiological differences of users, menstrual flow and so on, therefore discoloration is not considered an indicator that a replacement is required, and DIVA Period Underwear are still safe to use if stained.  
 
If you’re choosing to rinse before laundering, rinse your used period underwear in cold water, squeezing gently, until the water runs clear. Cold water also helps reduce the chances of staining. If you have it handy, DIVA Wash can also be used to lather the gusset, followed by thoroughly rinsing until the water runs clear. DIVA Wash is not a replacement for laundry detergent.

2. Don’t Wash Them Like Regular Underwear

If you’ve been wondering how to wash period underwear properly, it’s always important to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.  
DIVA Period Underwear is designed to be machine washed in cold or warm water at a maximum 30 degrees Celsius. It’s always best to use a mild detergent and a delicate setting. Hang to dry. Do not bleach, iron, dry clean or tumble dry.
 
Treat your DIVA Period Underwear like you would your most delicate undergarments. And like other seamless items, avoid the heat of hot water or the dryer to prevent the edges from coming undone. Choose air drying instead to increase their lifespan.  
 
Extra: If you have mesh bags that you normally wash other delicate items in, these are great to put your period underwear in while they’re machine washed also. 

3. Consider Hand Washing

Period Underwear work best when they’re taken care of properly. If you find you have a heavier flow, tend to wear your period products for longer periods of time, or just want to make extra sure they’re properly cared for, consider washing them by hand. Although it’s certainly not required, it can be an easy extra step!
 
Hand washing can be done by filling a small tub or sink with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Swish the detergent through the water to mix it in and make sure it’s dissolved, and then place your period underwear in the tub. Gently massage and release each pair a few times before leaving them to soak. Reusable period underwear may need a short amount of time to saturate properly—thanks to the ultra-absorbent internal layering.
 
Hand washing can be gentler on the absorbent layers, allowing them to maintain their integrity for longer. They’re designed to prevent leaks after all—take good care of them and they’ll take good care of you.
 
After leaving it to sit for at least 10-15 minutes, gently massage the underwear again to get any final blood out. The water might look a bit murky at this point—that’s how you know it’s working! Empty the water from the tub, re-fill it with cold water or rinse each pair under cold water. When gently squeezing the underwear to get remaining water out, the water should run clear now.
 
Hang them to dry until they feel dry throughout.

4. Purchase Several Pairs of Period Underwear

Did you know DIVA Period Underwear also comes in a 4-pack? Buying your period underwear in bulk can save you money and ensure you’re not wearing out only one pair. Plus, it’s always safer to have back-up!

How Long Do Period Underwear Last?

The actual lifespan of DIVA Period Underwear will differ depending on the individual’s flow, wearing routine, and cleansing process. The bottom line though is that if the leakproof protection is still functioning and you’ve been cleansing them properly, your period underwear is safe to continue wearing.  
 
 
Having a pair of period underwear for every day of your cycle can be a lifesaver! Whether it’s back-up for with your tampon, menstrual cup or menstrual disc, or stand-alone protection, DIVA Period Underwear is a comfortable way to feel worry-free and protected all day long. Properly caring for your Period Underwear can mean that you get confidence from knowing that your period care routine remains as secure and protective cycle after cycle for up to several years.