If your menstrual cup or reusable disc has changed colour over time, it usually doesn't need replacing just because it is stained. Discolouration can develop with repeated use and is generally cosmetic.
What is more important is to consider the condition of the product itself. Keep cleaning and sanitising it according to its instructions, and check for cracks, tears, stickiness, changes in shape or texture or other signs that the material is deteriorating.
If you would like to reduce visible staining, start with gentle cleaning and only use extra stain-removal methods that are suitable for your particular cup or disc.
Why do menstrual cups and discs become stained?
Menstrual fluid can gradually discolour reusable period products. Clear and pale-coloured products tend to show this more obviously, but staining can also develop on coloured cups and discs.
The amount of discolouration can vary depending on the material, colour, frequency of use and how the product is cleaned.
Staining is different from material deterioration. A cup or disc can be visibly discoloured and still be perfectly usable if it remains intact and you are caring for it according to its instructions.
How to reduce menstrual cup and disc staining
You may not be able to prevent staining completely, but good care can help slow it down.
Rinse with cool or cold water first
Some manufacturers recommend rinsing menstrual fluid from the product with cool or cold water before washing it normally, as this may help reduce staining.
If your product instructions recommend this approach, rinse it first and then continue with your normal cleaning routine. A cold-water rinse is a stain-prevention step, not a substitute for proper cleaning.
Clean the product after use
Follow the cleaning instructions supplied with your cup or reusable disc. Depending on the product, this may involve water alone between uses, a mild fragrance-free cleanser or a product-specific wash.
Avoid assuming that household soaps, disinfectants or cleaning products are suitable. Some can leave residue or may not be compatible with the product material.
For more general care advice, see our guide to using a menstrual cup or guide to using a menstrual disc.
Keep cup air holes clear
If your menstrual cup has air holes around the rim, make sure they stay clear.
You can usually flush them with clean water or fill the cup with water, cover the opening with your palm and gently squeeze the water through the holes.
Avoid toothpicks, needles or other sharp objects that could scratch or puncture the cup.
How to clean a stained menstrual cup or disc
If your cup or reusable disc is stained, start with its normal cleaning routine rather than immediately reaching for a stain-removal treatment.
- Wash your hands.
- Rinse the product with clean water.
- Wash it using the cleaning method recommended for that product.
- Rinse thoroughly so no cleanser remains.
- Sanitise it using an approved method where required.
- Allow it to dry properly before storage.
If staining remains, that does not necessarily mean the product is unclean. You can either leave the discolouration as it is or consider an additional stain-fading method if your manufacturer says it is suitable.
Can sunlight help fade menstrual cup or disc stains?
Some menstrual cup manufacturers recommend placing a clean product in direct sunlight for a few hours to help fade staining.
If your manufacturer allows this method, clean the product first and place it somewhere hygienic and out of reach of children and pets.
Do not assume sunlight is suitable for every reusable disc or cup material. Disc reservoirs and rims may use different materials or constructions, so check the instructions for the specific product.
Sunlight is also only a stain-fading technique. It does not replace normal cleaning or sanitising.
What about hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, alcohol or baking soda?
This is where product-specific instructions really matter.
Some manufacturers allow occasional use of particular stain-removal or sanitising methods, while others advise against them. For example, some silicone cup manufacturers allow occasional hydrogen peroxide, isopropyl alcohol or diluted vinegar treatments, but that does not mean those methods are suitable for every menstrual cup or reusable disc.
Repeated chemical soaking can also affect some materials over time.
Before using hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, alcohol, baking soda or another household cleaning product:
- check the instructions for your exact product
- make sure the method is compatible with all parts of the product
- follow any concentration or time limits given by the manufacturer
- rinse the product thoroughly afterwards if instructed
If your manufacturer does not recommend a particular treatment, stick with the approved cleaning and sanitising routine rather than experimenting.
This is especially important for reusable discs because the rim, reservoir and removal feature may not all be made from the same material.
When does staining actually mean there is a problem?
Staining on its own is generally cosmetic. Instead, look at whether the material is still in good condition.
Check your cup or reusable disc regularly for:
- cracks, tears or splits
- damage to the rim, reservoir, stem, tab, loop or removal feature
- a sticky or tacky surface
- significant changes in texture or flexibility
- a permanent change in shape
- a persistent odour that remains after appropriate cleaning
- other deterioration identified in the manufacturer's replacement guidance
If the product is stained but otherwise intact and working well, there is usually no need to replace it simply because it no longer looks new.
For more information, see What Is the Lifespan of a Menstrual Cup or Disc?.
If you do eventually need to replace it, our guide to disposing of an old menstrual cup or disc explains the options.
A note about single-use menstrual discs
This article applies to reusable menstrual cups and reusable menstrual discs.
Single-use discs are designed to be discarded after use and should not be washed, sanitised or treated for stains unless the manufacturer specifically states that the product is reusable.
Frequently asked questions
Are menstrual cup and disc stains normal?
Yes. Discolouration can develop gradually with repeated use, particularly on clear or pale products. Staining by itself does not mean the cup or disc is dirty, damaged or unsafe to use.
Can I use hydrogen peroxide on my menstrual cup or disc?
Only if the manufacturer of your particular product says it is suitable. Some cup manufacturers permit occasional diluted hydrogen peroxide treatments, while others give different care advice. Reusable discs may also contain more than one material, so a method that is suitable for a silicone cup should not automatically be used on a disc.
Can I use vinegar to remove menstrual cup stains?
Some manufacturers allow diluted vinegar for particular cleaning or stain-removal purposes, while others do not recommend it. Check the instructions for your exact cup or disc before using vinegar.
Can sunlight remove menstrual cup stains?
Sunlight may help fade discolouration and is recommended by some menstrual cup manufacturers. It should only be used if it is suitable for your particular product, and it does not replace normal cleaning and sanitising.
Does a stained menstrual cup or disc need replacing?
Not simply because it is stained. Replacement is more appropriate when there are signs of material deterioration, damage or other changes identified in the manufacturer's replacement guidance.
The bottom line
Menstrual cups and reusable discs can change colour over time, and staining is usually cosmetic rather than a sign that the product needs replacing.
Keep the product clean, inspect it regularly and use only stain-removal methods that are suitable for that particular cup or disc. If the material remains intact and the product is still comfortable and functioning as intended, a change in colour alone usually isn't a reason to replace it.
Related reading
- How to Use a Menstrual Cup
- How to Use a Menstrual Disc
- A Guide to Different Menstrual Cup Folds
- What Is the Lifespan of a Menstrual Cup or Disc?
- How to Dispose of an Old Menstrual Cup or Disc
- Menstrual Cup Troubleshooter
- Menstrual Disc Troubleshooter
This article provides general care information for reusable menstrual cups and discs. Always follow the cleaning, sanitising, storage and replacement instructions supplied with your particular product.