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Reusable Menstrual Discs Australia | Award Winning - my mimi

how to remove stains from your menstrual cup

Date created: 15 September 2024  ·  Read time: 5 minutes

Disc care guide

How to Remove Stains From a Menstrual Disc

Noticing a change in colour on your menstrual disc? Staining can happen with reusable period products over time. It is usually cosmetic, but regular care can help keep your disc fresh, clean and ready for your next cycle.

This practical guide explains how to clean a my mimi menstrual disc, help reduce staining, and know when it may be time to replace a damaged product.

Quick answer

Can you remove stains from a menstrual disc?

Often, yes. Rinse the disc promptly with cool water, wash it with a gentle cleanser made for menstrual products, and sanitise it between cycles according to the product instructions. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, abrasive scrubbers and strongly fragranced soaps, which may damage or irritate the silicone.

Normal care

Why menstrual disc stains can appear

Reusable menstrual discs can gradually discolour after repeated exposure to menstrual fluid, minerals in water and heat. This does not automatically mean the disc is unhygienic or unsafe to use.

What matters most is that your disc is cleaned correctly, fully rinsed and inspected regularly for cracks, tears, sticky residue, major texture changes or other visible damage.

Common reasons a menstrual disc may stain

1

Menstrual fluid exposure

Blood can leave surface discolouration when it sits on silicone for longer periods, especially before the disc is rinsed.

2

Heat and mineral build-up

Repeated high heat or hard water can contribute to yellowing or dull-looking silicone over time.

3

Using unsuitable cleaners

Harsh soaps, bleach, abrasive products and strong fragrances can affect the surface of silicone and should be avoided.

Avoid this

Do not use harsh stain-removal methods

Menstrual discs are designed for intimate use. Keep cleaning simple and follow the care instructions for your specific disc.

  • Do not use bleach or abrasive cleaners
  • Avoid strongly fragranced soaps and antibacterial wipes
  • Do not scrub with rough brushes or scouring pads
  • Do not microwave the disc unless using a microwave-safe steriliser
  • Replace the disc if it is cracked, torn or materially damaged

How to clean a stained menstrual disc

Everyday cleaning

1. Rinse first, then wash gently

After removing your disc, rinse it with clean water. A cool rinse can be a helpful first step before washing, because it can help reduce residue settling on the silicone.

For routine cleaning, use a gentle product designed for menstrual discs and silicone products, then rinse thoroughly before reinserting or storing.

Shop the gentle foaming cleanser →
Deep clean

2. Use cleaning tablets when needed

For an occasional deeper clean, dissolve a my mimi cleaning tablet in warm water, soak the disc for the recommended time, rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely.

Cleaning tablets can support your care routine, but they are not a substitute for checking the disc for damage or following the manufacturer’s full instructions.

Shop menstrual disc cleaning tablets →
Between cycles

3. Sanitise your disc before storing it

At the end of your period, sanitise your disc according to its care instructions. The my mimi GO is a microwave-safe steriliser designed to help make this routine simpler.

Always allow the disc to cool and dry fully before placing it in a breathable storage pouch.

Rinseafter removal
Washwith a gentle cleanser
Sanitisebetween cycles
Inspectbefore each cycle

Simple habits that can help reduce staining

01

Rinse promptly

Rinsing your disc soon after removal can help minimise residue sitting on the silicone.

02

Use gentle products

Choose cleaners intended for menstrual products or medical-grade silicone rather than harsh household products.

03

Follow heat instructions

Only use heat methods recommended for your product, and never microwave the disc without a microwave-safe steriliser.

04

Dry it completely

Let the disc air dry before storage so moisture is not trapped in the pouch.

05

Store it in a breathable pouch

A clean, dry pouch helps protect the disc from dust and keeps it ready for your next cycle.

06

Check for damage

Cosmetic staining can happen, but visible tears, cracks or changes in texture are reasons to stop using the disc and seek advice.

Care essentials

Build a simple menstrual disc care routine

Cleaning does not need to be complicated. A routine of rinsing, gentle washing, end-of-cycle sanitising and proper storage can help support the comfort, hygiene and lifespan of your reusable period care products.

Gentle cleanserFor routine disc care
Cleaning tabletsFor an occasional deeper clean
GO steriliserMicrowave-safe end-of-cycle care
Carry bagBreathable storage between cycles

Frequently asked questions about menstrual disc stains

Is a stained menstrual disc still safe to use?

Light discolouration can be cosmetic. However, you should stop using the disc if you notice cracks, tears, sticky residue, substantial texture changes or other damage. When in doubt, contact the brand or speak with a healthcare professional.

Can I use bleach, vinegar or toothpaste to remove menstrual disc stains?

It is best to avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive products and unapproved DIY cleaning methods. They may damage silicone or leave residue behind. Follow the care instructions supplied with your menstrual disc instead.

How often should I sanitise a menstrual disc?

Sanitise your disc between cycles according to the product instructions. During your cycle, rinse and clean it whenever you remove it, following the recommended wear-time guidance.

What should I do if my disc still looks stained after cleaning?

Some staining may remain even after proper cleaning. Focus on whether the disc is clean, dry and undamaged. For persistent concerns, contact the my mimi team with photos so they can help assess it.

Care note: This guide offers general product-care information and is not medical advice. Follow the instructions provided with your product. If you have irritation, ongoing discomfort or concerns about product suitability, stop using the product and speak with a qualified healthcare professional.