Menstrual underwear odor: Louloucup tips
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Time to read 9 min
Period panties are an eco-friendly, budget-friendly alternative to disposable products. However, like any **washable period protection**, they can sometimes develop **bad odors**. That’s when the experience becomes far from optimal or comfortable. Stubborn bad smells can even be a major reason some people hesitate to switch to **menstrual underwear**. And that’s really a shame!
On the Louloucup blog, in the Care Tips section, you’ll find loads of tips, tricks and advice on how to wash, clean, care for and deep-clean your reusable period products (panties, swimsuits, cups) so they last a long time – for years!
What causes these unpleasant smells? Why do they appear? How can you get rid of them effectively? Let’s find out together how to properly care for your period panties to avoid any unpleasant odours! Smelly period panties, let’s talk about it!
In this article, you’ll find:
I - Why does my period panty smell bad? Metallic smell Ammonia smell Other causes of bad odors II – How to get rid of odors in menstrual panties? 🧼 🫧 Immediate rinse 🫧 Preventive soaking Machine washable 🫧 Proper drying III – Care tips for Louloucup period underwear 💙 IV – Bad odors: when should you see a doctor? 🩺 Adapted to menstrual flow Materials and design Frequency of change V – Choose the right period underwear to reduce odours 🛍️ Check out Louloucup’s Teen range! 😎 FAQ: Odors and period underwear To learn more... Want to finally experience calm, stress-free periods?
I - Why does my period panty smell bad?
Odors appearing on period underwear can have several causes, which are perfectly natural but sometimes bothersome. Understanding the causes is the first step to dealing with them effectively.
Metallic smell
When menstrual blood is exposed to air, it undergoes an oxidation process that can create a characteristic metallic smell. This smell is completely normal and usually becomes stronger over time. If you leave your used period panty for several hours without rinsing it, the smell can become more noticeable.
Ammonia smell
Some women sometimes notice a smell of ammonia coming from their menstrual panties. This ammonia smell is often linked to the breakdown of urea present in the small amounts of urine that can come into contact with the panties. This is particularly common if you wear your panties for a long time or if you have light urinary leaks.
Other causes of bad odors
Other factors can influence the odor:
- Diet: certain foods can change the smell of menstrual blood.
- Hydration: a lack of water can intensify body odors.
- Vaginal infections: they can change the natural smell of your discharge.
- Bacteria: they grow quickly in a warm, humid environment.
If you notice a fishy smell or a particularly unpleasant and unusual odor, this may indicate a possible vaginal infection such as bacterial vaginosis, which requires medical attention.
Louloucup recommends...
- The custom bundle of 5 period panties at a sliding-scale, rock-bottom price with the code MEGAPACK!
- This pack includes the following period panties: Fanny, Clara, Ella, Liv and Mia.
- You can also create your own set. Mix models, sizes, flows, and collections. Fill your cart as you wish and without limits: swimsuit, panties, cup, etc.
- The more items you add, the greater the savings per item. 1 item = €28.90 / 5 items = €22.90.
- And on top of that, shipping is free!
II – How to get rid of odors in menstrual panties? 🧼
The good news is that there are several effective methods to remove bad odors from period panties. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure fresh, odor-free period panties:
🫧 Immediate rinse
This is the most important step to prevent bad odors from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric.
Rinse your period panty in cold water as soon as possible after use.
Cold water is essential, because hot water sets blood stains.
Keep rinsing until the water runs clear.
Avoid rubbing vigorously so as not to damage the absorbent fibers.
🫧 Preventive soaking
For optimal odor removal, soaking your menstrual underwear is a really useful step.
Soak your underwear in cold water with white vinegar added (one part vinegar to three parts water). It’s important to dilute the white vinegar and not use it undiluted.
White vinegar is a natural deodorizer that neutralizes odors.
A 30‑minute to 1‑hour soak is usually enough.
Baking soda (1 tablespoon in one liter of water) is also an effective alternative.
🫧 Machine wash
For a thorough clean, you probably already know this, but here’s a reminder of what you need to do:
Wash your period panties at a maximum of 30°C on a delicate cycle (preferably a short cycle).
Use a gentle detergent, without bleaching agents or fabric softeners (a delicate or eco-friendly laundry detergent).
Avoid vigorous spin cycles, which can damage the fabrics.
Place your period underwear in a laundry bag to protect its technical fibers.
Did you know?
Marseille soap or black soap are excellent natural options for tackling odors. You can gently rub the absorbent area with soap before machine washing for optimal results.
🫧 Proper drying
Once washed, and to preserve the qualities of your panties:
Always opt for air drying.
Absolutely avoid the tumble dryer, which damages the absorbent fibers.
Don’t expose it directly to the sun, which can weaken the elastic, or to any heat source (radiator, fireplace, hair dryer).
Make sure it is completely dry before putting it away.
Did you know?
Depending on the style, period panties can take a while to dry. Be patient. A pair of heavy-flow period panties with a double absorbent layer takes longer to dry. That’s also why we recommend having several pairs of period panties on hand. (The custom sliding-scale bundle is perfect for this 😍)
Our pretty organic period panties to pop in your basket
III – Care tips for Louloucup period underwear 💙
Louloucup period panties are carefully designed to offer optimal comfort and excellent absorbency (light, medium, or heavy flow). To preserve their qualities and avoid unpleasant odors, here are some specific tips:
The unique composition of Louloucup period panties, with their organic cotton lining, requires a few special care steps. For optimal maintenance, choose a gentle detergent, ideally eco‑friendly and fragrance‑free. Conventional detergents often contain chemical agents that can damage the fabric’s absorbent properties and make odours linger.
Our menstrual panties are designed for different flows – from light to heavy. If you have a very heavy flow, remember to change panties more frequently to avoid fiber saturation and odor development. Our Mathilde menstrual panties are specially designed for very heavy flows, with an absorbency equivalent to 5 tampons! You can wear them all night or all day (about 8 to 10 hours).
For a deep clean and effective odor removal, you can occasionally give your panties a sun bath: after washing, expose your panties to indirect sunlight for a few hours. UV rays have natural disinfecting properties that eliminate bacteria responsible for bad odors. However, make sure it’s not too hot! This exposure should remain exceptional!
IV – Bad odors: when should you see a doctor? 🩺
Although odors linked to **period panties** are generally harmless and easy to remove with proper care, some situations do require medical attention.
If you notice a strong, unusual smell that persists despite properly washing your panties, this may indicate a **vaginal flora imbalance** or an infection. Fishy, rotten egg or particularly unpleasant odors, especially if they are accompanied by abnormal discharge (white discharge, brown discharge, vaginal secretions), itching, burning or pain, require a medical check-up.
Certain infections such as bacterial vaginosis, **vaginal yeast infections** or STIs can change the smell of your discharge and, as a result, the smell of your period panties. Early diagnosis allows for fast, effective treatment so you can restore your intimate balance.
Remember that your doctor or gynecologist is there to help you without judgment – your intimate health matters and should be a priority!
V – Choose the right period underwear to reduce odours 🛍️
Choosing the right menstrual underwear can greatly influence the occurrence of odors. Here are some criteria to consider:
Adapted to menstrual flow
Choose styles suited to your menstrual flow intensity, it’s important. At Louloucup, we have three distinct underwear ranges depending on flow intensity: light, medium, or heavy.
- For a light flow: go for our Mia light-flow period panties, ultra-thin and discreet lace panties that reduce heat and humidity. They absorb the equivalent of 2 tampons.
- For a medium flow: our Lily medium-flow period panties (also available in plus sizes) offer a great balance between absorbency and breathability.
- For heavy flow: the Jade heavy-flow period panties with their high absorbency allow for less frequent changes.
Feel free to browse our shop to discover all our different styles! High-waisted, lace, organic cotton, thong, shorty, bloomer, seamless, teen, plus size, post-partum – you’ll easily find some favourites!
Materials and design
Louloucup panties have specific features designed to limit odors:
- a lining in GOTS-certified organic cotton that lets the skin breathe,
- absorbent fabrics treated for their antibacterial properties and certified OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100,
- a design that allows good air circulation to prevent excessive moisture.
Frequency of change
Even with the best menstrual panties, it is recommended to change them every 10 to 12 hours maximum, or more frequently on heavy flow days. Having several menstrual panties allows you to alternate and wash them properly between uses.
Louloucup panties are designed to offer optimal protection while minimizing the risk of unpleasant odors. Their premium composition of natural (cotton, bamboo) and breathable materials makes them an ideal choice for comfortable, worry-free menstrual hygiene.
From 3XS to 5XL, and from light to very heavy flow, you’re sure to find the perfect styles for you! Feel free to pick several models when you order – you’ll save a lot thanks to our sliding-scale bundle offer. You can add any product from the Louloucup shop (cup, swimsuit, panties), from any range, in any size! An item that costs €28.90 drops to €22.90 if you order 4 other items. The discount is applied automatically as soon as you add your products. Plus, shipping is free in France and across Europe! So go for it!
Check out Louloucup’s Teen range! 😎
FAQ: Odors and period underwear
How do I know if the smell of my period underwear is normal?
A slight metallic or neutral smell is completely normal. It’s simply the natural scent of oxidized blood. However, a strong fishy, ammonia-like, or particularly unpleasant and persistent odor may indicate a hygiene issue or an infection and should not be ignored.
Doesn’t white vinegar damage the fabric of my period underwear?
No, when properly diluted (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water), white vinegar is safe for the fibers of your period panties. It’s even recommended for its natural deodorizing and disinfecting properties. However, avoid using it undiluted or too frequently.
Why does my period underwear develop an ammonia smell?
The smell of ammonia usually comes from the breakdown of urea in small amounts of urine that may come into contact with the panties. To avoid this, make sure you wipe carefully after using the toilet and change your panties regularly, especially on heavy-flow days.
How long can I wear my period panties before they start to smell?
It’s recommended not to wear the same period underwear for more than 12 consecutive hours, even if your flow is light. In case of a heavy flow, it’s best to change it every 6 to 8 hours to avoid saturation and the appearance of odors. With Louloucup panties, you benefit from excellent absorbency that lets you stay relaxed for longer.
Can probiotics help reduce menstrual odor?
Yes, probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of vaginal flora, which can indirectly reduce odors. You can consume them as dietary supplements or in fermented foods like yogurt or sauerkraut. A balanced vaginal flora is less likely to develop unpleasant odors during menstruation. Remember, every body is unique! If you have specific questions about your menstrual hygiene, our Louloucup advisors are here to help you choose the protection that suits you perfectly.
To learn more...
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! 🩷
