How to store your menstrual cup between cycles
Lucy MeacherPicture this: your period has just ended (hooray), you’ve taken your menstrual cup out for the final time this cycle, and you’re officially back in your non-period era. Before you pop your cup away and forget about it for a few weeks, there’s just one last little ritual of care to complete: storing it properly.
It’s a small step, but it helps keep your cup fresh, hygienic, and ready for your next cycle.
Step 1: Sterilise your cup
First things first, we always recommend sterilising your cup once your period has finished. This helps remove any remaining bacteria or flow residue and keeps your cup in the best possible condition. You can also sterilise again just before your next period, if you like.
If you have the Eleria Cleaning & Sterilising Case, this is super simple:
- Pop your cup into the case
- Fill with water
- Place in the microwave for 3 minutes (leaving the lid off)
- Carefully remove and let it cool
If you don't have a sterilising case, you can:
- Place your cup in a pan of boiling water on the hob
- Let it boil for 15 minutes
- Make sure the cup doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan
Both methods are effective - it’s all about what feels easiest for you. Find out more on how and when to clean and sterilise your menstrual cup.
Once sterilised, always allow your cup to cool completely before handling or drying. This protects the silicone and avoids trapping any warmth or moisture.
Step 2: Dry your cup
Once your cup has cooled, make sure it’s completely dry before storing. You can:
- Gently pat it dry with a clean towel
- Or use a piece of tissue
Avoid sealing your cup away while it’s still warm or damp, as this can trap moisture.
This is also a great time to do a quick check-in with your cup. Take a look at its colour, texture, and smell. A well-cared-for menstrual cup can last for years, so getting familiar with how yours normally looks and feels is part of caring for it properly.
Step 3: Store it in a breathable bag
Finally, pop your Eleria cup into its cotton drawstring bag until you need it again.
We always recommend storing menstrual cups in a breathable fabric pouch rather than an airtight container or plastic bag. Breathable storage allows airflow and helps keep your cup fresh between cycles.
Your cotton bag is designed for exactly this purpose.
Then simply tuck it away in:
- Your bedside drawer
- Your bathroom cupboard
- Or your period care kit
Ready and waiting for your next cycle.
Storing your period cup isn’t just about tidying it away. It’s a quiet end-of-cycle ritual that keeps everything feeling clean, calm, and looked after.
Taking care of your cup also means taking care of a product designed to last. It’s one of the simplest ways to make your period care more sustainable, more mindful, and more supportive of your body. Read our blog post for more on how long a menstrual cup lasts, and how to look after it.
A gentle reset, ready for whatever your next cycle brings!
