Washing a period panty isn’t rocket science, but the upkeep truly determines the longevity of the product's lifespan. Although washing Mahina's Period Panty is not the same as tossing your regular underwear in the wash, a few small habits can help them last longer, stay safe, and feel fresh cycle after cycle.
Whether you're new to period underwear or just want to make sure you're doing it right, here are the most common mistakes people make while washing their period panties, and how to avoid them.
-
Not Rinsing It Soon Enough
Try not to let your period panty sit around for hours before rinsing it out. The sooner you rinse, the easier it is to remove blood and prevent staining or stiffness. Run cold water through the gusset until it flows mostly clear. You can also gently squeeze the blood out or even toss it in the washing machine - just make sure it's on a gentle setting. -
Soaking For Too Long
Soaking can help if you’re not ready to wash right away, but only for a short while. Leaving your washable period panty soaking for hours can weaken the bonding between layers and reduce its effectiveness. Ten to fifteen minutes is plenty. After that, get washing. -
Wringing Or Twisting The Fabric
This is a common one. When your panty is soaked, the instinct is to twist or wring it out. However, doing that can damage the absorbent core or distort the shape of the gusset over time. Instead, gently press the gusset under running water to squeeze the blood out. -
Using The Wrong Detergent
Harsh detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, and anything with strong fragrances can mess with the fabric and irritate your skin. Always use a mild, fragrance-free detergent that’s safe for delicates. That keeps your washable period panty soft, absorbent, and irritation-free. -
Not Rinsing The Detergent Properly
Leftover detergent can lead to skin irritation or make the fabric feel stiff. Manually check to see if there's any detergent remaining on the panty or run it through water one more time before drying. You can do this until the water runs completely clear and there’s no slippery or soapy residue left on the surface. -
Washing With Hot Water
It’s tempting to think hot water leads to cleaner products. However, when it comes to period panties, it can actually do more harm than good. Hot water sets blood stains and can be too harsh on the gusset’s absorbent layers. Stick to cold or lukewarm water, your panty will stay in better shape, and it’ll be easier to wash out the blood too. -
Skipping The Wash Bag In The Machine
If you’re machine washing, always use the gentle cycle. It’s also a good idea to place your washable period panty in a lingerie wash bag to protect it from friction with zippers, hooks, or rougher fabrics. This small step helps preserve its fit, structure, and performance. -
Tumble Drying
Dryers and high heat can break down the gusset and cause damage over time. The best way to dry your panty? Air dry it flat in the shade or clip it at the waistband, and never wring it out to speed things up.
So how do you know your washable period panty is properly clean?
- There’s no visible blood or residue
- The water runs clear during the final rinse
- It doesn’t smell or feel stiff
- The fabric feels soft and dry once it’s air-dried
If your period panty meets all of these checks, it's good to go. Taking care of your reusable period panties doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s just about finding a simple rhythm that works for you - rinse them early, wash them gently, avoid harsh products, and skip the shortcuts that wear them out. A little care goes a long way in keeping them fresh, comfy, and reliable for every cycle.
About the Author
