Proper storage keeps your menstrual cup clean, safe, and ready for your next period. After you clean your cup at the end of your cycle, how you store it matters. Good storage protects your cup from dust, bacteria, and damage. Let's learn the best ways to store your cup at home and while traveling.

Why Storage Matters

Your menstrual cup needs to breathe. Silicone and other cup materials can trap moisture if sealed in airtight containers. Trapped moisture creates the perfect environment for bacteria and mold to grow. This can damage your cup and potentially cause health problems.

Good storage also protects your cup from dust, lint, and other particles that might stick to the soft material. Plus, proper storage keeps your cup in good shape so it lasts for years.

Best Storage Options

The best way to store your menstrual cup is in a breathable fabric pouch. Most cups come with a small cotton or mesh bag specifically for storage. These bags let air circulate while keeping dust and debris away from your cup.

If your cup didn't come with a storage pouch, you can use:

A small cotton drawstring bag
A mesh laundry bag
A clean cotton sock
A small fabric jewelry pouch
Any breathable fabric bag

The key is breathability. The fabric should allow air to pass through so your cup stays dry and fresh.

Where to Store Your Cup

Store your cup in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Good storage spots include:

A bathroom drawer or cabinet
A bedroom dresser drawer
Your medicine cabinet
A closet shelf

Keep your cup away from hot, humid areas. Don't store it right next to your shower or bathtub where steam and moisture build up. Also avoid storing it in direct sunlight, which can damage the material over time.

What to Avoid

Never store your cup in airtight containers for long periods. This includes:

Plastic bags (sandwich bags, zip-lock bags)
Sealed plastic containers or cases
Airtight jars or bottles
Wrapped in plastic wrap or foil

Some cups come with plastic storage cases. These are fine for short-term travel, but don't use them for long-term storage between periods. If you do use a plastic case, make sure it has ventilation holes. Better yet, transfer your cup to a fabric pouch when you get home.

Storage Between Periods

After your period ends, clean your cup thoroughly as explained in Chapter 16: Cleaning. Once your cup is completely dry, place it in your breathable storage pouch. Store it in a cool, dry place until your next period.

Some women like to store their cup in the bathroom for easy access. Others prefer to keep it in their bedroom or another private spot. Choose whatever location works best for you, as long as it's cool and dry.

Travel Storage

When traveling, you can use your cup's plastic case if it has one. This protects your cup from getting crushed or dirty in your luggage. Just remember to transfer it back to a fabric pouch when you're not actively traveling.

For longer trips, pack both the plastic case and your fabric pouch. Use the hard case during transit to protect your cup. Once you arrive, switch to the fabric pouch for day-to-day storage.

If you're traveling without a hard case, wrap your cup in a clean washcloth or hand towel, then place it in your fabric pouch. This extra padding protects it in your bag.

Storage Tips

Follow these tips to keep your cup in perfect condition:

Always make sure your cup is completely dry before storing it
Check your storage pouch regularly and wash it when needed
Replace worn-out storage pouches to keep your cup clean
Don't store your cup with other items that might damage it, like sharp objects or cosmetics
If your cup develops an odor in storage, it may not be completely dry or clean. Wash and dry it again.

Quick Storage Checklist

Before you put your cup away each month, remember:

Clean your cup thoroughly
Dry it completely (no water droplets)
Place it in a breathable fabric pouch
Store in a cool, dry place
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture

Your Cup, Your Choice

Storage is simple once you understand the basics. Keep your cup in a breathable pouch, store it somewhere cool and dry, and it will stay fresh and ready for your next period. If you're still choosing your first cup, take our Cup-Figurator quiz to find the perfect match for your body. Proper care and storage will help your cup last for years.