When introducing a new user to the DivaCup, the first question we get asked is: How do you clean that thing? Cleaning a menstrual cup may seem like a daunting task, but by following a few easy steps, you will have your DivaCup cleaned in no time.

Most people have everything they already need to ensure proper care and cleaning of their menstrual cup. And with proper care, your DivaCup can last for several years!

To help you get started, we’ve created a simple menstrual cup cleaning toolkit! Below is everything you need to clean your menstrual cup.

Your Menstrual Cup Cleaning Toolkit

Water

First things first, always wash your hands before inserting or removing your DivaCup. Be sure to get under your fingernails, especially if you have acrylic, manicured nails. It is important to wash your DivaCup 2-3 times a day with warm water and the DivaWash, or a mild, unscented, oil-free soap. No matter where you are (home or travelling) remember to only use potable (safe to drink) water when cleaning your menstrual cup. Check out our public restroom cleaning tips blog post for tips on care while on-the-go!

Soap (DivaWash)

We recommend using the DivaWash to clean your menstrual cup. DivaWash is a 100% natural, plant-based cleanser designed to protect the material of the DivaCup and the pH balance of your body. Its concentrated formula means one drop is all you need.

If you don’t have access to the DivaWash, we recommend you use a mild, unscented, oil-free soap. Although eco-friendly, several home cleaning products like vinegar, castile soap and baking soda are not recommended for cleaning your menstrual cup. We get it, castile soap and baking soda are amazing cleaning agents – for your home, but not for your menstrual cup.

Harsher cleaning agents like oil and fragrance-based soaps, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and bleach are a NO! These can compromise the silicone and should be kept far (FAR) away from the sensitive area of the vagina. Replace your cup if you’ve used these harsh cleaning agents to clean your menstrual cup. Also, we need to say it, don’t put it in the dishwasher. Yes, it is a cup, but it’s not that kind of cup.

Metal Cooking Pot

Before first use, boil your DivaCup for 5-10 minutes in an open pot of boiling water. You can purchase a small pot designated for DivaCup boiling only. Some users also boil their DivaCup in between cycles, but this is not a necessary cleaning step. Cleaning between cycles may help

with discoloration (staining). Note: a discolored cup doesn’t impair its functionality. Our flows are all unique, which will result in varying degrees of menstrual cup discoloration. Do not add anything to the water while boiling, baking soda, vinegar, essential oils etc. as these may compromise the integrity of the silicone.

Whisk

Buying a silicone whisk, specifically for your DivaCup, is a great way to help with boiling your cup. Simply place the cup in the whisk, submerge in the pot of boiling water and wait 5-10 minutes to remove. Note: the whisk is not a required tool but will help prevent burning of the cup. Sometimes, life gets busy or we got lost in Instagram scrolling. It happens. If you do burn your cup, we recommend replacing it with a new one.

Toothbrush

Cleaning the rim of your cup and the four air holes is key to ensuring a proper seal when you insert your cup. There are a few ways you can clean the four holes. One way is to fill the cup with water and put your palm over the cup opening. Flip the cup over and squeeze the sides. This will help squeeze water through the four holes. It’s best to do this in the shower, as water will spray everything around you. Another way to clean the four holes is to gently squish back the area around each hole and gently brush the area with an unused DivaCup designated toothbrush.

After your cycle

After your period, give your cup a thorough clean with water and DivaWash – boil as an addition cleaning step if you’d like. Once dry, place your DivaCup it is carrying pouch (this comes with our cup at the time of purchase) and keep in a cool, dry place, away from your pets – many of our canine and feline friends have mistaken the DivaCup for a chew toy.

There you have it. Everything you need to properly clean your menstrual cup is easily accessible and easy to use. For additional tips, visit our Care and Cleansing page.