How to Clean Your Saalt Cup: A Step-by-Step Guide for Eco-Conscious Users

Key Takeaways

• Immediate Rinsing: Always rinse your Saalt Cup with cold water immediately after removal to avoid stains and odors, then follow up with warm water.
• Daily Cleaning: Use a gentle, pH-balanced soap and thoroughly clean every part of the cup, especially the holes and crevices, to maintain its integrity and ensure full hygiene.
• Deep Cleaning Protocol: Boil your Saalt Cup in water for 5-7 minutes between cycles to sterilize it, ensuring it does not touch the sides of the pot to avoid damage.
• Proper Storage: Store the cup in a breathable fabric bag in a cool, dry place. Avoid airtight containers to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.
• Handling Stains and Odors: For stubborn stains or odors, a soak in a hydrogen peroxide and water solution can be effective. This helps maintain the cup’s cleanliness without damaging the silicone.
• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your cup for signs of wear and tear such as tears, severe staining, or texture changes and replace if necessary to ensure ongoing hygiene and performance.
• Personal Hygiene: Never share your Saalt Cup with anyone else, even after thorough cleaning, to prevent health risks.

Maintaining your Saalt Cup not only involves ensuring it's clean and hygienic but also aligns with the eco-conscious values that likely led you to choose it in the first place. Upcycle Outpost, your go-to for eco-friendly, upcycled, and recycled products, offers a comprehensive guide on how to effectively and safely clean your Saalt Cup. Embrace a sustainable menstrual care routine with these simple yet effective steps.

Understanding Your Saalt Cup

Before diving into the cleaning process, let’s understand what a Saalt Cup is and why proper cleaning is crucial. The Saalt Cup is a sustainable menstrual product made from 100% medical-grade silicone. It's reusable for up to 10 years, making it an eco-friendly alternative to disposable pads and tampons. Proper cleaning is essential not only for your health but also to maintain the integrity of the silicone, ensuring your Saalt Cup remains functional and hygienic year after year.

Immediate Cleaning Post-Removal

1. Rinse with Cold Water

Immediately after removal, rinse your Saalt Cup under cold water to remove any menstrual blood. Cold water helps prevent staining and odor development, which could be harder to manage if rinsed initially with warm water.

2. Follow Up with Warm Water

Once the initial rinse is done, you can continue rinsing with warm water to ensure that all residues are thoroughly washed away.

Daily Cleaning

1. Use a pH-balanced Soap

For your daily clean, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free, and pH-balanced soap. Harsh chemicals or scented soaps can degrade the silicone quality and irritate your skin. Any soap that meets these criteria will do, but if you want to be safe, Saalt offers their own menstrual cup soap.

2. Thorough Washing

Using your fingers, clean the Saalt Cup thoroughly inside and out. Pay special attention to the holes at the top of the cup; these can be cleared with a soft toothbrush or a needle to ensure they’re not clogged.

Deep Cleaning Between Cycles

1. Boil for Sterilization

At the end of your menstrual cycle, sterilize the cup by boiling it in water for 5-7 minutes. Use a deep pot to ensure the cup isn’t touching the bottom or sides, which can cause melting or warping.

2. Air Dry Completely

After boiling, let your Saalt Cup air dry completely in a clean, dry area to prevent any bacterial growth. Avoid using towels or any lint-producing fabrics for drying.

Storing Your Saalt Cup

1. Ventilated Storage

Store your Saalt Cup in a breathable fabric bag (typically provided with your purchase) and keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid airtight containers or plastic bags as these can trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Tackling Stains and Odors

If you notice staining or persistent odors, soak your Saalt Cup in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water (1:1 ratio) for a few hours. This method also helps restore the silicone's original color without compromising its structure.

2. Addressing Wear and Tear

Regular inspections of your Saalt Cup for any tears, severe staining, or texture changes are crucial. These signs can indicate that it’s time to replace your cup to maintain optimal hygiene and effectiveness.

FAQs

How often should I clean my Saalt Cup during my period?

Clean your Saalt Cup at least twice a day (every 12 hours) by rinsing and washing with soap as mentioned in the daily cleaning section.

Can I use vinegar or tea tree oil for cleaning my Saalt Cup?

It’s best to stick to mild soap and water for cleaning. Natural agents like vinegar and tea tree oil can degrade the silicone over time.

What if I’m in a public restroom?

In a public restroom, you can use bottled water to rinse your cup or use Saalt Cup wipes for a quick and effective clean.

Is it safe to share my Saalt Cup with someone else after cleaning?

No, for hygiene and health reasons, never share your menstrual cup with anyone else, even after thorough cleaning.

What are the signs that I should replace my Saalt Cup?

Any noticeable cracks, stickiness, persistent odors, or severe discoloration are indicators that your Saalt Cup should be replaced.