Menstrual Cup Cleaning: Quick Guide

Before first use: Boil your DIVA Cup for 5-10 minutes before using it for the first time.

After each use: Clean your DIVA™ Cup with water and a mild, unscented, oil-free, pH-balanced cleanser such as DIVA™ Wash, before reinserting. 

On the go: If you have access to water, rinse your cup thoroughly before reinserting it, paying particular attention to the air holes. If a sink isn’t available, bring a water bottle so you can rinse your cup with clean water over the toilet after emptying it. 

Between periods: Clean your cup thoroughly, let it dry completely, and store it in its breathable cotton bag.  

If your cup stains: Some discoloration is normal over time and doesn't necessarily mean your cup needs to be replaced. 

If your cup is damaged: Replace your DIVA™ Cup  if it becomes ripped, torn, cracked, or shows signs of deterioration. 

A DivaCup menstrual cup sits on a tiled surface next to its purple and pink box labeled DIVA, highlighting it as a reusable menstrual cup made of medical grade silicone.

How to Clean Your DIVA™ Cup

Clean your cup each time you remove it before reinserting it.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your cup.
2. Rinse the cup with cold water.
3. Clean the cup using a mild, unscented, oil-free, pH-balanced cleanser, such as DIVA™ Wash.
4. Pay attention to the air holes and the area around the stem.
5. Rinse thoroughly to remove any cleanser.
6. Reinsert your cup once it has been thoroughly rinsed.

What Should I Use to Clean My Menstrual Cup?

Use a mild, unscented, oil-free, pH-balanced cleanser to wash your DIVA™ Cup like DIVA™ Wash. 

Avoid using vinegar, tea tree oil, antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh chemicals to clean your cup. These products aren't recommended for menstrual cup cleaning and may affect the silicone over time. 

How Do You Clean a Menstrual Cup Before First Use?

Before using your DIVA™ Cup for the first time, boil it for 5-10 minutes. 

If you choose to boil your cup between periods, make sure it remains fully submerged and does not come into direct contact with the bottom of the pot. Never leave your cup unattended while boiling. 

Looking for tips on cleaning and boiling your DIVA™ Cup? Visit our DIVA™ Cup Tips & Tricks page for helpful care and cleaning tips.

How to Clean Your Cup on the Go

Cleaning a menstrual cup doesn't have to stop when you're away from home. Whether you're at work, travelling, or using a public restroom, you can care for your DIVA™ Cup when you're away from your usual routine.

If you don’t have access to a sink, consider bringing a water bottle so you can rinse your cup over the toilet with clean water after emptying it. Pay particular attention to the air holes to make sure they’re clear before reinserting your cup.

Empty your DIVA™ Cup into the toilet, then rinse it thoroughly with clean water before reinserting it. Pay particular attention to the air holes to ensure they’re free of any remaining menstrual fluid.

A hand squeezes clear liquid from a DIVA Wash tube into a collapsible, gray silicone Shaker cup with a matching lid, set on a light-colored surface against a beige background.

Using DIVA™ Wash On the Go

If you have access to water but not a sink, the DIVA™ Shaker Cup provides a convenient way to clean your menstrual cup while you're on the go.

  1. Fill the DIVA™ Shaker Cup with water.
  2. Add a small amount of DIVA™ Wash, or a mild, unscented, oil-free, non-antibacterial soap.
  3. Place your menstrual cup inside the Shaker Cup and securely close the lid.
  4. Shake vigorously for one minute to thoroughly clean your cup.
  5. Empty the Shaker Cup and rinse your cup thoroughly with clean water before reinserting.

Be sure to rinse your menstrual cup well to remove any soap residue before reinserting.

How Should You Store a Reusable Menstrual Cup?

Proper storage is an important part of menstrual cup care. 

After cleaning your DIVA™ Cup, allow it to dry completely before storing it. 

Store your cup in its breathable cotton bag at room temperature, away from moisture, direct heat, and heavily scented items. 

Avoid storing your menstrual cup in a plastic bag or airtight container. A breathable storage bag allows air to circulate around the silicone while your cup is not in use.

Is it Normal for a menstrual Cup to Stain?

Yes. Some discoloration may develop on your DIVA™ Cup over time. This is normal and can vary from person to person. 

Regular cleaning can help reduce discoloration, but staining does not necessarily mean that your menstrual cup needs to be replaced. 

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive products to remove stains. These products aren't necessary for routine menstrual cup care and may affect the silicone.

When Should I Replace My DIVA™ Cup? 

Regularly inspect your cup as part of your menstrual cup care routine. Replace your DIVA™ Cup if you notice: 

Rips or tears
Cracks or other visible damage
Signs of silicone deterioration
Sudden leaks
Other changes that could affect the condition of the cup

If your cup has fallen into the toilet, it should also be replaced. It may not be possible to adequately clean and sanitize the cup after this happens.

Still Need Help?

If you have any questions about cleaning or caring for your DIVA Cup, reach out to our Consumer Experience team. We're happy to help.