How to Clean and Store Your Menstrual Cup

A menstrual cup lasts up to 5 years — if you care for it well. The routine takes two minutes. Here it is.

During your period: rinse between wears

Empty the cup, then rinse it — first with cold water (hot water can set stains and odors), then warm. If you like, use a mild, unscented, pH-neutral soap, and rinse thoroughly. Make sure the air channel and any small openings are clear: with Elys, the patented channel is designed to be easy to rinse through.

In a public bathroom? Wipe the cup with clean toilet paper or rinse it with a bottle of water over the toilet, reinsert, and give it a proper rinse at your next opportunity.

Between cycles: sterilize

Once your period ends, sterilize the cup in boiling water for 3–5 minutes. Use a dedicated pot (or a cup-sized sterilizer), and don't let it touch the bottom of the pan — place it in a whisk or keep the water moving. Let it air-dry completely before storing.

What NOT to use

• No harsh soaps, perfumed gels, or antibacterial wipes — they can damage the silicone and irritate you.
• No vinegar, bleach, or alcohol.
• No dishwasher.

Storing your cup

Store it dry in the breathable cotton pouch included with your Elys cup — never in an airtight box or plastic bag. Silicone needs air; trapped moisture is what causes odors.

When to replace your cup

With proper care, your Elys cup lasts up to 5 years. Replace it if you notice cracks or tears, a sticky or powdery film, or a persistent odor that sterilizing doesn't remove.

Next: how to insert your cup, or browse the FAQ.

This article is for general information and isn't medical advice.