Why Sterilizing Your Menstrual Cup Matters

Your menstrual cup is reusable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective, but to keep it safe and hygienic, you need to clean it properly. Washing your cup during your cycle is important, but sterilizing it between cycles helps eliminate bacteria and ensures it’s fresh for your next period.

Think of it this way—would you use the same plate every day without properly washing and disinfecting it? Exactly.

When Should You Sterilize Your Menstrual Cup?

You should sterilize your menstrual cup:

• Before your first use (straight out of the package)
• At the end of each cycle before storing it
• After any infections (such as yeast infections or UTIs) to prevent reinfection

How to Sterilize Your Menstrual Cup: 3 Effective Methods

There are multiple ways to sterilize your menstrual cup, but here are the best and easiest options:

1. Boiling Your Menstrual Cup

The most common and effective way to sterilize your menstrual cup is by boiling it.

Steps to follow:

1. Fill a clean pot with enough water to fully submerge the cup.
2. Bring the water to a boil.
3. Drop the cup in and let it boil for 3–5 minutes.
4. Use tongs or a spoon to keep it from touching the bottom of the pot (to prevent melting).
5. Remove the cup and let it air dry on a clean cloth.

Pro Tip: If you’re boiling your cup in your regular kitchen pot, you might want to have a separate pot just for this purpose.

2. Steam Sterilization

If you’d rather not boil your cup in an open pot, steaming is a great alternative. We made the Ivy Sterilizer for this purpose. This is a foldable/collapsible sterilizer that makes for an excellent portable tool. We also have the Ivy electric steamer, which you can check out here.

Steps to follow:

1. Get a menstrual cup sterilizer (or a microwave-safe cup with a lid).
2. Add a little water inside the sterilizer.
3. Place your menstrual cup inside and cover it.
4. Microwave for 3–5 minutes.
5. Let it cool before taking the cup out.

This method is quick, easy, and less messy than boiling.

3. Using a Sterilizing Solution or Tablets

If you don’t have access to boiling water, you can use sterilizing tablets or liquid solutions (often used for baby bottles).

Steps to follow:

1. Fill a container with cold or warm water.
2. Drop in a sterilizing tablet (following the brand’s instructions).
3. Submerge your menstrual cup and leave it for the recommended time (usually 10–15 minutes).
4. Rinse the cup thoroughly with clean water and air dry.

This method is great for travel or situations where you don’t have access to a stove or microwave.

What to Avoid When Sterilizing Your Cup

• Don’t use harsh chemicals like bleach or hydrogen peroxide—they can damage the silicone and irritate your body.
• Avoid scented soaps or antibacterial washes—they leave residue that may disrupt your vaginal pH.
• Don’t boil too long—more than 5-10 minutes can weaken the silicone over time.
• Never use a dirty pot or microwave container—you don’t want to introduce bacteria while trying to sterilize your cup.

How to Store Your Menstrual Cup After Sterilizing

Once your cup is clean and dry, store it properly to keep it fresh for your next cycle.

• Use a breathable cotton pouch (not an airtight container) to prevent moisture buildup.
• Keep it in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid plastic bags or sealed containers—trapped moisture can encourage bacterial growth.

Final Thoughts

Sterilizing your menstrual cup between cycles is a simple but important step to ensure safe, hygienic use. Whether you prefer boiling, steaming, or using sterilizing solutions, the key is to be consistent and store your cup properly afterward.

With the right care, your menstrual cup can last years, giving you a healthier, eco-friendly period experience every cycle!