Best Menstrual Cup Steriliser | How to Sterilise Your Cup
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Quick Guide: Sterilising Your Menstrual Cup
This article shows how to sterilize your cup safely between cycles, whether with a dedicated sterilizer or simple alternatives like boiling. Key takeaways:
Boiling or using a microwave sterilizer are the safest ways to clean your cup.
Sterilizing prevents bacteria, odors, and prolongs the life of your cup.
The Ruby Steriliser is the best portable option for travel or quick cleaning, offering a safe, convenient, and mess-free way to sterilize your cup.
Avoid harsh or inappropriate cleaning methods and always handle your cup with clean hands.
Sterilizing your menstrual cup is an essential step to keep it hygienic, safe, and long‑lasting. While rinsing your cup during your period is usually enough, you should always sterilise your menstrual cup between cycles. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to do it, find out the best menstrual cup sterilizer, and help you choose the easiest option for your routine.
Why You Should Sterilise Your Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cups are made from high-quality medical-grade silicone, but they still come into contact with blood and bacteria. Sterilising your cup:
Removes bacteria and odors
Helps prevent irritation or infections
Extends the lifespan of your menstrual cup
Keeps your cup fresh and ready for your next cycle
The good news? Sterilizing is quick and easy, especially if you use a dedicated menstrual cup steriliser.
How to Sterilize a Menstrual Cup (Step by Step)
Step 1: Rinse Your Cup
Rinse your menstrual cup with clean water to remove any residue. Avoid harsh soaps or antibacterial products.
Step 2: Place the Cup in a Steriliser
Put your cup inside a menstrual cup steriliser, such as the Ruby Cup Steriliser, and fill it with water until the cup is fully covered.
Step 3: Heat the Water
You have two safe options:
Microwave method: Place the steriliser in the microwave and heat for 3–5 minutes, or until the water boils.
Stovetop method: Place the steriliser on the stove and let it boil gently for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Let It Cool and Dry
Carefully remove the steriliser (it will be hot), let everything cool, then allow your cup to dry completely before storing it in its breathable cotton bag.
The Best Menstrual Cup Steriliser
Using a dedicated sterilizer makes the process safer, easier, and more hygienic than using a kitchen pot.
⭐ Best Overall: Ruby Cup Steriliser
The Ruby Cup Steriliser is designed specifically for menstrual cups and fits perfectly with all Ruby Cup sizes and other brands.
Why we love it:
Made from 100% food-grade silicone
Safe for microwave and stovetop use
Collapsible, lightweight, and travel-friendly
Easy to use, clean, and store
The Ruby Steriliser collapses for easy storage and travel, making it the perfect choice for on-the-go use.
Can You Sterilize a Menstrual Cup Without a Sterilizer?
Here on the Ruby Cup blog, we already have a full guide on how to clean a menstrual cup, and as we promise in the article: It’s easier than you think. We also have a guide specifically on how to clean your menstrual cup in a public bathroom, which can seem a bit scary at first, but is totally doable (and doesn’t necessarily entail being bold enough to use the sink).
Full Menstrual Cup Care Tips
Your menstrual cup is a zero-waste period product that can last up to 10 years. To help it reach its full lifespan and stay hygienic:
You should sterilise your menstrual cup at least once per cycle, ideally before the first use and/or after your period ends.
What is the best way to sterilise a menstrual cup?
The best way to sterilise a menstrual cup is with a menstrual cup steriliser, which safely heats water to kill bacteria without damaging the silicone. You can also boil your cup in a pan, but a steriliser is more convenient, portable, and easier to use.
Can I sterilise a menstrual cup in the microwave?
Yes, you can sterilise a menstrual cup in the microwave using a microwave-safe menstrual cup steriliser. Simply place the cup in the steriliser with water and heat it as per the instructions. This method is quick, effective, and ideal for travel or small kitchens.
Do I need a steriliser for my menstrual cup?
A steriliser isn’t strictly necessary, but it is highly recommended. Using a menstrual cup steriliser makes cleaning simpler and more hygienic than boiling in a pan, especially if you want a discreet and reusable solution.
