maillot bain menstruel

Caring for period swimwear: our 7 must-know tips

Written by: Camille Raynaud

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Published on

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Last updated on

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Time to read 13 min

For summer 2026, and with your upcoming swims in mind, have you gone for a period swimsuit? Excellent choice! 😎

This washable period protection is truly amazing whether you’re a teen or an adult, a serious athlete or more of a lounge-chair fan! Just like the best period underwear, a great period bikini has become a must-have for the pool.

A period swimsuit for summer 2026? A big yes! You’ll be able to swim during your period without stressing!

Available as bikini bottoms or a one-piece, this washable, long-lasting period protection has some great advantages! It lets you swim with total peace of mind during your period! We’ve talked about it a lot on our blog, so feel free to check out our guides, comparisons and all our other articles, especially on composition and effectiveness, in the PERIOD SWIMWEAR section of the blog.


Once they’ve bought a period swimsuit, many users are unsure how to care for this type of protection.

Caring for period swimwear, what steps should you follow to do it right? 

It’s true that when you’re just starting out and don’t know much about reusable, washable protection, you don’t always have the right habits or reflexes. What’s the proper care routine to preserve the absorbency of your period swimsuit? How do you wash a period swimsuit properly? Do you absolutely have to wash it as soon as you get out of the pool? And what about at the beach? Which products and detergents should you use or avoid? Should you wash your period swimsuit in the machine or by hand?

There are three key steps to follow:

  1. Rinsing.
  2. Washing.
  3. Drying.

Let’s go through the process step by step. In this care guide you’ll also find all of Louloucup’s washing tips and tricks to preserve your period swimsuit—its absorbency, fabrics, elasticity and durability.


Simple, effective solutions to keep your period swimsuit performing like new! Stains, odors, machine washing
 we explain it all!

I. Rinsing after use: the first important step

Want to maintain the absorbency of your period swimsuit? Rinse it immediately in cold water after each use. This removes blood, salt and chlorine residues that can damage the fibers. With this simple step, your period swimsuit will stay effective cycle after cycle.


Cold water is your best friend for effective rinsing. It easily dissolves fresh blood, salt, and sunscreen residue. By skipping hot water, you prevent blood from clotting on the fabric. Rinse until the water runs clear for a thorough clean.

Here’s what to do:

Rinse immediately after use in cold water as soon as possible to prevent blood from setting into the fibers.

Remove any chlorine, salt, sand, or sunscreen residue that could damage the swimsuit.

Continue rinsing until the water runs clear and free of blood.

Gently press the swimsuit without twisting it to preserve its waterproof membrane.

Use a basin of cold water to make the initial rinse easier and prevent blood from spreading in the washing machine.

If you have heavy periods, heavy or very heavy flow (and if you haven’t already, check out our heavy-flow period underwear), a thorough rinse is essential. Soak the swimsuit in cold water as soon as you get home. This relaxes the fabric and helps remove residues. Repeat until the water runs clear and the fabric is clean. This step prepares the swimsuit for a deep wash.


Use the clarity of the water to judge your rinsing. Clear water means you’ve removed what’s harsh on the fabric. Incomplete rinsing leaves residues that can reduce the swimsuit’s effectiveness. Your swims will stay worry-free thanks to this careful routine.


Also wondering how to care for your period underwear? Discover all our tips and tricks to extend the life of your period lingerie.

maillot menstruel

Discover the NOA one-piece swimsuit đŸ€©

  • Noa is a black one-piece period swimsuit that’s reliable, absorbent, affordable and comfortable.

  • Noa absorbs the equivalent of 2 regular tampons and is suitable for light to medium menstrual flow. For heavy flow, we recommend wearing our Turquoise cup along with Noa.

  • Noa’s look is classic and flattering, with a plunging neckline and a high-cut leg.

  • Noa has a built-in bra for ideal support.

  • The straps are thin and adjustable.

  • You can wear Noa at the pool, at the beach, but also as a bodysuit with shorts or a sarong.

  • You can swim and sunbathe without a second thought!

Noa isn’t the only Louloucup period swimsuit! Take a closer look—if you haven’t already—at our full collection and treat yourself ahead of the coming summer! All our swimsuits are eligible for the custom sliding-scale bundle. Pick and mix styles, flows, products and sizes, and enjoy automatically reduced prices!

II. Caring for your period swimsuit: washing methods

You can choose between hand washing and machine washing. Hand washing is gentler on the absorbent fibers, while machine washing saves time.

‱ Comparing washing methods for period swimwear

Method
Benefits
Drawbacks
Hand wash
Water temperature control, preserving elasticity, no risk of friction
Longer process, requires thorough rinsing until the water runs clear.
Machine washable
Convenient for multiple swimsuits, less handling
Requires a laundry bag, delicate cycle, and temperature below 86°F (30°C)

For hand washing, fill a sink with lukewarm water at a maximum of 30°C. Add a spoonful of gentle detergent suitable for delicates. Gently rub, rinse thoroughly and press without wringing. Hang to dry in the shade.

Machine washing requires some care. Place the swimsuit in a laundry bag and choose a delicate cycle at a maximum of 30°C. Avoid fabric softeners, which reduce absorbency. Don’t overload the drum to protect the fibers.

Before first use, wash the swimsuit to activate its absorbent properties (this also applies to period underwear). Rinse in cold water, then wash by hand or in the machine according to the care instructions. This initial wash removes any manufacturing residues and gets the lining ready to do its menstrual job.

‱ Washing your period swimsuit: detergents to choose and to avoid

Wondering which detergents to use to protect your period swimwear? Follow our tips to care for your washable protection with the right products. Learn the best habits to adopt.

Choose mild, fragrance-free detergents to protect the absorbent fibers of your period swimwear. Oily products like Marseille soap or glycerin clog the pores. A hypoallergenic detergent at 30°C protects your delicate fabrics.

Fabric softeners reduce absorbency by up to 30%. They leave chemical residues on the fibers. Bleaching agents damage the technical properties. Choose gentle alternatives to keep your swimsuit in good condition.


  • Use diluted white vinegar for natural disinfecting.
  • Choose Marseille soap for its eco-friendly and effective formula.
  • Try baking soda to deodorize and remove stains.
  • Choose citric acid to combat limescale in your rinse water.
  • Choose homemade nettle-based laundry detergents for gentle fiber care.

Gentle soap is perfect for hand washing period swimwear. Dilute it in cold water, gently rub, and rinse thoroughly. It removes blood stains without damaging the absorbent fabrics.

Special detergents for period underwear are ideal for swimsuits. Their gentle formulas protect the fibers. You can find them in organic stores.

regles piscine
maillot regles
maillot piscine

Louloucup hasn’t forgotten teens and young girls, with a small collection of teen period swimwear available from size XXS! The smart move is to order your teen period swimsuit at the same time as their teen period underwear to have a complete period kit for this summer! And on top of that, prices go down when you order several items! đŸ€‘

III. Drying techniques to preserve elasticity

  • Protect your period swimsuits by gently wringing them out. Avoid twisting the fabric so you don’t damage the absorbent layer. A spin cycle of 800–900 rpm max will protect the fibers. Wrap the swimsuit in a dry towel to soak up excess water without affecting its waterproofing.

  • Give your swimsuits a natural air dry to preserve their properties. Lay them flat, in the shade, away from radiators. Direct heat damages elasticity and absorbency. This gentle care prevents seams from warping and extends the life of your washable protection.

  • A completely dry swimsuit is essential before putting it away. Moisture encourages bacteria and unpleasant odors. Make sure no area feels damp, especially the absorbent zone. This careful step helps prevent infections linked to maceration.

  • In winter, speed up drying with a fan. Place the drying rack in a heated room without exposing the swimsuit to direct heat. For an emergency dry, use the “cool” setting on a hairdryer. These tricks save time without damaging the technical fibers.

Fall for the Laura high-waisted swimsuit đŸ€©

  • Laura is a black period bikini bottom that’s as absorbent as it is comfortable.

  • This period bikini bottom absorbs the equivalent of 2 tampons. It’s perfect for managing light to medium menstrual flow.

  • The cut is both classic at the front (high-waisted, covering the tummy up to the navel) and bold at the back (beautiful lacing).

  • The high waist feels secure.

  • Laura pairs easily with any bikini top.

  • Sizes available from XS to XXL. Price: €28.90 before discount with the sliding-scale custom bundle.

IV. Caring for your period swimsuit: our tips for removing stains and odors

‱ How to effectively remove blood stains

Our 4 ULTIMATE TIPS against STAINS

Treating blood stains as soon as they’ve just dried makes them much easier to remove. Fresh blood contains proteins that, once set, make stain removal harder. Rinsing immediately in cold water helps prevent stains from becoming permanent on your period swimsuit.

Soaking in cold water with salt helps dissolve stubborn stains.
This mixture removes embedded blood by loosening residues. The water/salt solution lets you avoid harsh products that could damage the absorbent fibers of menstrual fabric.


Sodium percarbonate or hydrogen peroxide tackle stubborn stains without damaging the materials. Add a spoonful of the cleaning powder to warm water and let it work before washing. These solutions remove stains without harming the swimsuit’s absorbent properties.

Gently rub stained areas with a soft sponge. Avoid stiff brushes that damage fibers. Dab the stain with a soapy solution before a full wash to preserve the integrity of the menstrual fabric.

‱ Getting rid of stubborn odors from period swimwear

Our 4 ULTIMATE TIPS against ODORS


Odors in period swimwear are caused by bacteria growing on blood, salt or chlorine residues. Insufficient rinsing leaves traces that, combined with moisture, create the perfect environment for bad smells. Careful maintenance prevents these issues.

White vinegar naturally deodorizes period swimwear. Add half a cup to the drum during the wash cycle to remove residues. This eco-friendly product neutralizes odors without damaging the technical fibers of the absorbent fabric.

Prepare a solution of warm water and two tablespoons of baking soda. Soak the swimsuit for 1 to 2 hours to destroy the bacteria responsible for odors. Rinse thoroughly after soaking to protect the leak-proof membrane.

Air out the swimsuit after it’s fully dry. Hang it in fresh air for several hours to prevent bacteria growth. Store it in a dry, ventilated drawer, not in a closed bag, to keep it fresh between uses.

maillot de bain menstruel

“Finally, a unique swimsuit that’s not too flashy. Just right. I wear it all the time. Great period protection, and I use a cup if needed. Fits true to size, stays put in the water. Highly recommend.” CĂ©line M.

V. Storing and transporting period swimwear

It’s important that your swimsuit is completely dry before you put it away. Storing it damp encourages mold and bacteria, which damage the fabric. Make sure no area feels clammy to the touch to protect your menstrual swimwear and avoid bad odors or health risks.

Store your swimsuits in a dry, well-ventilated place. Aim for a drawer with humidity between 50 and 60% RH. Avoid folding the absorbent area. This care extends the life of your swimsuits up to 3 years for around 100 cycles.

When traveling, use a waterproof pouch. Gently wring out the swimsuit before slipping it inside. These solutions keep used protection separate and protect against leaks and odors.

Waterproof pouches for carrying soiled or wet swimsuits.

Choose designs with separate compartments to store clean and used items.

Choose machine-washable pouches with a gentle, glycerin-free detergent.

Use reusable accessories to avoid single-use plastics.

VI. How to maximize the lifespan of your period swimsuit

Give your period swimwear a new lease of life with regular care. Rinsing immediately in cold water removes salt and chlorine. By following our tips, your washable protection can last 3 to 5 years. Why not choose a solution that’s both sustainable and economical?

  • A well-cared-for period swimsuit withstands up to 140 washes. Keep an eye on the elastic if it starts to loosen or stains that no longer come out in the wash.
  • Absorbency decreases over time. Replace your swimsuit when it no longer meets your needs, so you stay comfortable every time you swim.
  • Alternate between two swimsuits to make them last longer. This spreads out the wear caused by frequent washing.
  • Protect the fabric’s elasticity by avoiding direct sunlight. Wash at a maximum of 30°C with a mild detergent without glycerin. This care preserves the technical properties and everyday comfort. Your swimsuits stay effective for a long time, for calm, eco-conscious swims.

Louloucup period swimwear line for teens

VII. Caring for period swimwear: mistakes to avoid

Common period swimwear care mistakes include not rinsing immediately, using fabric softener and washing at high temperatures. These habits reduce absorbency and distort the fibers, making the swimsuit less effective over time.

Bleach and fabric softeners damage the absorbent properties. These products leave residues that clog the fabric’s pores. Avoid them to preserve the long-term effectiveness of your period swimsuit.

Wash your swimsuit at a maximum of 30°C and let it air dry. Tumble drying and high temperatures break down the fabric’s elasticity, shortening its lifespan. Choose gentle cycles for optimal care.

Leaving your swimsuit in the sun for too long damages the colors and elasticity. UV rays cause irreversible fading. Store it in the shade after drying to keep it vibrant and functional.

In short.

Caring for period swimwear is really simple. You just need to know a few key tips and never skip the 3 essential steps to keep your period bikini in great shape for as long as possible:

  1. Thorough rinsing, 
  2. Gentle wash,
  3. Air dry.

Feel free to pin or save this article carefully—and send it to everyone around you who owns a period swimsuit! 😝

If you didn’t know, Louloucup gives you the chance to gear up for less this summer (and of course for the rest of the year too). How does it work? 

It’s really simple. You pick the products you like: panties, swimsuits, cups. You mix sizes, styles, absorbency levels, collections. You’re totally free! Take the opportunity to order as a group (sisters, mom, cousins, friends), fill your cart and see: the price of each selected product goes down. At Louloucup, the more you order, the more you save! It’s our sliding-scale bundle. And shipping is free on top of that, so go for it!

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FAQ – Caring for period swimsuits

How do you wash your period swimsuit while traveling?

For a successful trip, remember to rinse your period swimsuit in cold water after each use. This helps remove residue and preserves absorbency.

Then, wash it gently by hand with mild soap or in the machine on a low setting if available. Avoid harsh products like bleach and let it air dry to extend its lifespan.

Are period swimsuits effective?

The effectiveness of period swimwear depends on its ability to manage flow while swimming. The multi-layer technology must capture and retain your flow. For light flows, the suit should absorb without swelling. A good thigh elastic and an efficient absorbent core are essential. Don’t forget to choose the right size for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

How do you deep-clean period underwear?

For a deep clean, start by rinsing your period underwear in cold water until the water runs clear. This removes most of the residue. Then, wash it by hand or machine at 86°F (30°C) with a gentle detergent, ideally organic or natural. Avoid bleach and fabric softener. Air drying will help preserve its effectiveness and lifespan. Sodium percarbonate can be used for a deeper clean if needed.

Can you machine-wash a period swimsuit?

Yes, you can. However, be very careful when choosing your wash cycle. Always go for a short, cool or lukewarm cycle. 30 minutes at 30°C is ideal. 

Louloucup

Camille

I’ve been writing for Louloucup for several years now, and I love chatting about everything from period panties to grandma’s remedies for easing period pain! Every week I share my favorites and inspirations with one goal in mind: finally experiencing calm, stress-free periods! đŸ©·

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