There’s no denying that period underwear is a game-changer, but if you’re new to the period underwear game, you might be confused as to how to care for them properly. At Knix, one of the questions we’re asked most is: how do I wash my period undies?
It’s a fair question—especially since how you care for them can affect how your period undies hold up over time. So, if you’re looking for answers, you’ve come to the right place. We’re giving the full low-down on the best way to wash and dry your period underwear.
For the record, it’s not nearly as daunting as it seems—and, no, throwing them in the wash won’t stain your clothes.
What Is Period Underwear, Anyways?
If you’re a true period underwear novice, let’s go over the basics before we jump into the care instructions. In its look and feel, period underwear isn't all that different from regular underwear. What sets it apart is an ultra-thin absorbent layer that soaks up menstrual blood (and even bladder leaks, sweat, and discharge).
For some, period underwear is the ultimate backup protection while wearing a tampon, menstrual cup, or other period product. For others, it’s a total replacement for disposable menstrual products.
It’s a bit of a choose your own adventure: choose the best period underwear absorbency level for you, be it Light Leakproof Underwear for lighter flow days or Super Leakproof Underwear for heavier days and overnight protection.
Zones+ Ultra Leakproof is the latest reusable period underwear to hit the scene. After a decade of spearheading the period underwear category, the latest innovation is our most absorbent yet and designed with bladder leaks and heavy period days in mind.
Designed using patented Zones+ technology, the undies include coverage zones that target heavy leaks.
Cold Water Is Your Friend
OK, so you’ve picked your favorite pairs, excitedly torn open the package, and worn them… now what? It’s pretty simple, actually. A preliminary rinse in the sink is optional — especially if they’ll be sitting in your laundry hamper for a day before you get around to washing them.
Then, all that’s left to do is set your washing machine to cold water and throw in some mild detergent. The bonding technology used to create period underwear make them super sleek, but also somewhat resistant to heat.
We know what you’re thinking and, yes, you can machine wash them in a full load of laundry without fear of period blood staining the rest of the garments in your load.
Lay Flat to Dry
To make your period panties extra happy, you’ll want to lay each pair flat to dry or place them in the dryer on low heat before tucking them into your top drawer for next month. This will ensure they keep their shape and that the heat doesn’t mess with the heat-sensitive bonding technology.
Oh, and a couple other tips: avoid fabric softener and bleach, never machine dry on high heat, and don’t (for the love of period underwear) ever iron them.
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We get it, period underwear can be a big investment purchase. It can take a few months worth of wears before they fully eclipse the cost of buying disposable period products.
Knowing how to properly wash and care for them can go a long way, ensuring you can use them monthly (or even daily) for a long time to come.