How to Clean Menstrual Discs [Ultimate guide]

If you’ve switched to a menstrual disc, you already know it’s a game-changer—less frequent emptying, no suction, and a fit so comfortable you might forget it’s even there. But there’s one part of the journey that still feels uncertain for many users: cleaning. What’s the best way to sanitize a menstrual disc without damaging it? Can you just rinse it, or does it need boiling every time? In this guide, you’ll learn everything about how to clean menstrual discs safely, easily, and in a way that keeps both your body and the product in top shape.

Why Proper Cleaning of a Menstrual Disc Matters

It’s tempting to think rinsing is enough, but proper cleaning is what keeps your menstrual disc hygienic and long-lasting. A menstrual disc sits close to the cervix and collects menstrual fluid for hours at a time. That means maintaining cleanliness isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about preventing bacterial buildup and ensuring safe reuse.

Gynecologists often recommend washing reusable period products before and after every cycle, using mild, fragrance-free soap and water. The key is balance: you want to remove residue and germs without degrading the medical-grade silicone that most discs are made of.

In my practice as a certified menstrual health educator, I’ve noticed that when people develop a consistent cleaning routine, their comfort level skyrockets. They stop worrying about “doing it wrong” and start focusing on how much freedom a disc really gives them.

The good news? Once you know the basics, it’s as easy as washing your hands.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Menstrual Disc During Your Cycle

Cleaning during your period doesn’t have to feel complicated. The goal here is simple—empty, rinse, and reinsert with care.

Here’s the basic routine most experts recommend:

• Empty the disc carefully.
  Remove your menstrual disc, keeping it level to avoid spills. Empty the contents into the toilet.
• Rinse with cool water first.
  Warm water can set proteins in menstrual blood, making residue harder to remove. A quick rinse with cool water keeps things cleaner.
• Wash your hands first.
  Always start with clean hands. It’s the simplest yet most effective step to prevent bacteria transfer.
• Wash with a mild, fragrance-free soap.
  Use a gentle cleanser—no antibacterial, oil-based, or scented products. They can break down silicone over time.
• Rinse thoroughly.
  Any leftover soap can irritate your vaginal tissue, so rinse well until it feels smooth and residue-free.
• Pat dry or shake off water.
  You don’t need it completely dry before reinserting, but removing excess water helps prevent slipperiness.

If you’re in a public restroom and don’t have access to a sink, simply wipe the disc with toilet paper, reinsert it, and wash it properly when you get home. Most users find that small flexibility keeps the routine sustainable.

Deep Cleaning Between Cycles: The Reset Wash

Between periods, your menstrual disc deserves a deeper clean. Think of it as a reset—like washing your favorite cup before putting it back in the cabinet.

Here’s how to do a proper deep clean:

• Boil it for 5–7 minutes. Use a dedicated pot for your disc, and make sure it doesn’t touch the sides or bottom to prevent warping.
• Air dry completely. Place it on a clean towel and let it dry naturally before storing.
• Inspect for damage. Check for tears, discoloration, or residue buildup—signs that it’s time for a replacement.
• Store it safely. Keep your disc in a breathable cotton pouch or case, away from dust and sunlight.

Some brands offer sterilizing cups designed for menstrual discs. You fill them with water, pop your disc in, and microwave for a few minutes. It’s quick, efficient, and travel-friendly.

The goal of deep cleaning isn’t perfection—it’s consistency. A few minutes of care keeps your disc safe for years.

What Not to Use When Cleaning Your Menstrual Disc

Even well-intentioned routines can go wrong if you use the wrong products. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• No harsh cleaners or bleach. They can damage silicone and irritate vaginal tissue.
• Avoid vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. These can alter the disc’s pH and shorten its lifespan.
• Don’t boil for too long. Overheating may distort shape or texture, making it harder to seal properly.
• Skip scented wipes or soaps. Fragrances often contain alcohol or essential oils that can degrade materials.

Truth is, gentle care works best. Think of your menstrual disc as you would your skin—it thrives with mildness, not intensity.

Comparing Cleaning: Menstrual Cup vs. Menstrual Disc

At first glance, cleaning a menstrual cup and disc seems identical—but there are subtle differences that matter. Cups create suction, so cleaning often involves checking air holes and seals. Discs, on the other hand, have smooth rims and shallower basins, making them easier to rinse and less prone to residue buildup.

Here’s a quick breakdown

Menstrual Cup Cleaning:

• Requires brushing small suction holes
• Must be squeezed to remove air pockets during wash
• Often needs more drying time before reinsertion

Menstrual Disc Cleaning:

• No suction holes to clean
• Easier to rinse and reinsert quickly
• Can be cleaned discreetly with minimal mess

Most people find discs simpler to maintain once they’ve adjusted. And because many discs can self-empty during urination (a phenomenon known as auto-dumping), some users even go an entire day without removing them for cleaning.

Still, no matter how convenient it gets, always give your disc a thorough wash at least twice daily on heavy flow days. It’s the best balance between hygiene and practicality.

The Comfort Factor: Why Cleaning Affects How It Feels

It’s easy to forget that cleaning doesn’t just prevent infections—it directly impacts comfort. Residue, even microscopic, can cause subtle irritation or dryness. When your disc is freshly washed, it glides in easier, sits more comfortably, and stays odor-free.

A well-cleaned disc also maintains its flexibility and structure. Over time, soap buildup or neglected rinsing can stiffen the silicone, making insertion trickier.

You might be surprised how many users report a “fresh” or “barely there” feeling after perfecting their cleaning routine. Cleanliness isn’t about obsessiveness—it’s about harmony between your body and the product.

If you ever feel discomfort even after cleaning properly, it’s worth checking whether the soap you’re using is too harsh or if your disc needs replacing. With consistent care, though, that soft, seamless comfort becomes the new normal.

The Environmental Benefit of Proper Cleaning

Reusable menstrual discs already carry a powerful environmental advantage—they replace hundreds of disposable pads and tampons each year. According to environmental research, disposable period products contribute over 200,000 tons of waste annually, much of it non-biodegradable.

When you take care of your disc properly, you extend its lifespan, reducing waste even further. A well-maintained silicone disc can last up to five years or more. That’s five years of less plastic, less packaging, and less landfill contribution.

Cleaning is sustainability in practice. It’s not just about hygiene—it’s about participating in a quiet, meaningful shift toward eco-friendly living. Each wash keeps both your body and the planet a little healthier.

Myth-Busting: Cleaning Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

A common myth is that cleaning menstrual discs is time-consuming or messy. But once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes as second-nature as brushing your teeth.

Most people find that by their second or third cycle, they’ve established a personal rhythm—whether it’s boiling right after their period ends or washing in the shower for convenience.

Some quick tips to make it effortless:

• Keep a gentle cleanser by your sink just for your disc.
• Use a small microwave sterilizing cup if you travel often.
• Rinse with cool water first—it prevents staining and buildup.
• Dry it in natural light occasionally to prevent moisture storage.

On the flip side, skipping proper care can shorten your disc’s life and make each cycle less pleasant. But when you stay consistent, it becomes one of the easiest self-care habits you’ll ever develop.

Conclusion

Cleaning your menstrual disc isn’t complicated—it’s about simple habits done consistently. Wash with mild soap, rinse thoroughly, and give it a deep clean between cycles. These small steps protect both your health and the planet, while keeping your disc as comfortable as the day you bought it.

Reusable menstrual discs are designed to make periods easier, not stressful. And if you’re still getting used to handling or inserting your disc, tools like the NEYA Menstrual Disc Applicator can make the process smoother and more hygienic. It’s especially helpful for beginners learning how to manage both comfort and cleanliness at once.

Once you build your rhythm, cleaning becomes less of a chore and more of a quiet ritual of self-care. Your body deserves that level of respect—and so does the product designed to support it.