What do you need to get started with menstrual cups? And what items are just nice to have that will make your journey a little easier? Those are great questions.
The good news is that all you really need is your menstrual cup, or, if you prefer, a menstrual disc. From there, you can add a few items to make your switch smoother or just more fun. This free Period Nirvana First-Time Menstrual Cup Checklist will help you fill your cart (or not!) when you decide to take the menstrual cup plunge.
Screenshot this image or download the PDF below of our shopping checklist to help you decide which, if any, of the “nice-to-haves” are right for your budget and lifestyle. Want an easy-to-print black and white version? Download the B&W checklist.
The One-and-Only “Must Have”
One Menstrual Cup or Disc in Your Size
Not sure which menstrual cup is best for you? Try taking the Period Nirvana Quiz and let us suggest the cup most likely to work for you. Our quiz can also help you find the right menstrual disc. Give it a try and join thousands of others who have found their match using our comprehensive and diverse quiz.
Suggested Items for an Easy Switch
Soap That’s Safe for Menstrual Cups
This is a strong recommendation, but not required. We take the guesswork out of researching different soaps. The menstrual cup wash brands we sell are all safe for silicone or TPE products and are also gentle enough to use around your vulva and vagina. Keep in mind ANY brand of cup safe wash can be used on ANY brand of menstrual cup or disc. Mix and match!
Our Top Pick: Hello Wash
Period Underwear
Utilizing leakproof period underwear when you first switch to a menstrual cup provides peace of mind during your first few cycles.
There is a learning curve with cups or discs that can last 1-3 cycles. Leakproof underwear will catch any leaks and keep your clothes stain-free just in case. When you have things perfected, you can skip them in the future.
Period underwear also comes in handy in many other scenarios, so it’s a great addition to your underwear drawer. We love Saalt Wear because it comes in so many styles and absorbencies, and it now offers up to 4x in sizes in select styles.
Our Top Pick: Saalt Wear Comfort Bikini
On-the-Go Cup Wipes or Spray
A box of cup wipes will go a long way! Add a box to your order and pack 2-3 into your bag. These will be handy when you’re in public and need to empty your menstrual cup.
Of course, you don’t have to wipe your cup at all. You can empty it and reinsert all in your stall. But if you’re not comfortable with that, a cup wipe means you can clean your cup without leaving your stall.
As an alternative, Hello Go Spray is another option that’s portable and does essentially the same thing. Spray the cup down and wipe it clean with toilet paper.
Our Top Pick: OrganiWipes
A Kitchen Whisk
You probably already own a whisk. It’s a nice item to have when you boil your cup or disc in a pot on your stove. Place the product inside your whisk to prevent it from scorching at the bottom of the pot. See our full Menstrual Cup Sanitizing Guide for more tips.
Nice-to-Have Accessories
The Saalt Cup + Disc Steamer
Yes, you can sanitize your menstrual product in the pot you already own at home. But a steamer might be nice to have if you live in a dorm or shared living space. Or maybe you just don’t like the idea of boiling your menstrual cup or disc in the pots you use for cooking.
The steamer does cut down the time it takes to sanitize each month, and for that reason, it’s a luxury many people can justify. It takes less than 5 minutes, and you don’t need to wash a pot after. It works anywhere there is a US plug.
Water-Based Lubricant
A dab of lubricant can go a long way in making inserting your cup easier. It’s definitely not required unless you’ve struggled to insert your product. If you don’t already have a water-based lubricant in your cabinet, our sister retail store carries a few brands to choose from. Sliquid is a popular option that’s glycerine-free and an affordable add-on.
Our Top Pick: Sliquid H20
Period Nirvana Spot
Spot is a drying rack for menstrual cups and discs. Leave a Spot next to your sink as a place for your product to rest. The design allows for airflow underneath your menstrual cup while it dries. And it just looks cute.
Saalt Travel Kit
The Saalt Travel Kit includes everything you need to leave home with your cup for short vacation trips or just for the day. Inside is a mini Peri bottle you can use to rinse the cup in a bathroom stall.
You also get a Saalt Compact Sanitizer that can be used in your microwave to sanitize your cup or disc. Also included is a travel-size Saalt Wash. All three items are packed in a cute zipper case to throw in your luggage.
Spare Cup or Disc
When you LOVE a shirt, you naturally buy it in a few colors. In this case, when you LOVE your menstrual cup or disc, it’s not a bad idea to grab a spare. Keep it at your partner’s house, in the car, in your work bag, etc. You never want to be caught off-guard without it.
Your Budget, Your Lifestyle
You can buy just one menstrual cup or disc and get started on your sustainable period care journey. That one product will last up to 10 years, so it’s an investment worth making.
In time, if you want to add accessory items that make life easier, this list will come in handy. Or, if you want to get started by purchasing items in one go, you can do that too! Try the Period Starter Kit builder and save 10% on bundles over $85. You can even make it a Teen Period Kit and customize the contents.
Leave a Comment