Keeping your Libby Cup Clean

The medical-grade silicone of your Libby Cup is not porous – this means you shouldn't have any issues with a smelly cup. There are a still a few things you can do to make sure your menstrual cup stays smelling fresh and clean: 

 

TIP #1: STERILISE YOUR CUP

When you get your Libby Cup, remember to sterilise it first. It also helps to sterilise your cup at the end of each cycle.

Boil it in clean water for 3 minutes. Make sure the cup is fully submerged in water and don't let the pan boil dry or it could damage your cup and the pan. 

 

TIP #2: KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR FLOW

The Libby Cup is made of a transparent silicone with measuring lines to help you track your flow. You will quickly learn how often you need to empty your cup – you'll probably find it's less often than a tampon!

If you're nervous about leaking, then use a panty liner until you've adjusted to emptying your Libby Cup.

Remember, Libby Cups come in 3 different sizes. We've given you some advice about Choosing Which Libby Cup is Best for You here ... 

 

TIP #3: DON'T FORGET TO RINSE!

Every time you empty your cup, give it a wash with warm water. Be sure to clean out the suction holes so that they are clear. After you've washed the cup, rinse it in cold water – this will help seal the silicone and prevent any discolouration or smells building up over time. 

If you're using a public bathroom, or having trouble finding clean water, check out our blog on How to Change a Menstrual Cup in a Public Bathroom.

 

TIP #5: USE THE SUN, VINEGAR OR LEMON TO FRESHEN UP YOUR CUP

Using these 3 easy solutions will help prevent any odour or stains on your cup. Combine them with regular sterilisation and cold-water rinses for the perfect cup hygiene technique.

1. Lay your Libby Cup in a sunny spot, such as a windowsill. Don't leave it sunbathing for more than a couple of hours on a hot day – just enough to give it that natural cleaning process.
2. Pop your cup in a solution of water and vinegar for about an hour. Afterwards, rinse it thoroughly.
3. Cut a slice of lemon and rub the juice onto your cup, inside and out. You can also leave it to soak in lemon juice mixed with water. Finish the process by boiling your cup in a pan for 3 minutes to make sure all the lemon juice is gone. Rinse with cold water before reinserting. 

 

Written by Heather Sanderson and edited by Nina Giblinwright.