--- title: How to Clean a Menstrual Cup in a Public Bathroom date: 2023-04-28T03:00:00-04:00 author: OBOS Admin canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/how-to-clean-a-menstrual-cup-in-a-public-bathroom" section: Resources --- [Donate](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/donate) [Health & Sexuality Info](/health-info)# How to Clean a Menstrual Cup in a Public Bathroom While we can comfortably wear menstrual cups for up to twelve hours, we may still find ourselves having to clean one when we’re out in public. This resource includes a step-by-step guide on how to clean a menstrual cup in a public restroom. > Menstrual cups are eco-friendly, nontoxic, budget friendly, and may even help to reduce menstrual cramps. As with any change, it’s common to have questions about how making the switch to menstrual cups will impact your routine. Today, we’re tackling one on the most common concerns for women considering cups: how do you use a menstrual cup when you’re on the go? [Read the full article ](https://www.bepreparedperiod.com/blog/how-to-use-a-menstrual-cup-in-public/?utm_sq=gpsaj7i2yn&fbclid=IwAR0K6Apeut3D8YXiQtRsQMdMV55hlf_57DU6nsma21AUvQiuCrl65nMT8kc) SOURCE: Be Prepard Period ![marketing-city-to-sea-QwwK4f0MHvM-unsplash](data:image/png;base64,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) ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics - [ menstrual cycle](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/menstrual-cycle) - [menstrual products](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/menstrual-products) ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)### *Why You Can* **Trust Us** - We rigorously evaluate all content - We embrace a reproductive justice framework - We don’t accept ads or sell products - We reject funding from the pharmaceutical industry - We counter misinformation and disinformation - We address the social, political, and economic factors that affect health and sexuality [read more](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/why-you-can-trust-us) Share [](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();) ##### More to Explore [ResourcesLook ## A Brief History of Periods/Vagina Museum Period Exhibition Print Illustrator Hazel Mead created A Brief History of Periods to teach about menstruation throughout history. ![A Brief History of Periods:Vagina Museum Period Exhibition Print](data:image/png;base64,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) Illustrator Hazel Mead created A Brief History of Periods to teach about menstruation throughout history.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/a-brief-history-of-periods-vagina-museum-period-exhibition-print) [ResourcesRead ## A Menstrual Expert's Surprising Tips On How To Talk About Your Period An interview with Dr. Inga Winkler about menstrual stigma – what it is, how it is perpetuated, and ways to combat it. ![A Menstrual Expert's Surprising Tips On How To Talk About Your Period](data:image/png;base64,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) An interview with Dr. Inga Winkler about menstrual stigma – what it is, how it is perpetuated, and ways to combat it.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/a-menstrual-experts-surprising-tips-on-how-to-talk-about-your-period) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Asking Legislators to Provide Menstrual Products in Prison KH discusses her work lobbying and advocating for a menstrual products bill that would benefit women who are incarcerated. ![Kimberly](data:image/png;base64,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) KH discusses her work lobbying and advocating for a menstrual products bill that would benefit women who are incarcerated.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-asking-legislators-to-provide-menstrual-products-in-prison) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Having to Make My Own Menstrual Hygiene Products in Prison KH explains what it’s like to be a woman in prison experiencing a shortage of menstrual hygiene products. ![Kimberly](data:image/png;base64,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) KH explains what it’s like to be a woman in prison experiencing a shortage of menstrual hygiene products.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-having-to-make-my-own-menstrual-hygiene-products-in-prison) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Explaining How the Prison System Is Hurting Menstruating Women KH discusses the challenges menstruating people face in jail because they aren't provided with a sufficient number of menstruation products. ![Kimberly](data:image/png;base64,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) KH discusses the challenges menstruating people face in jail because they aren't provided with a sufficient number of menstruation products.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-explaining-how-the-prison-system-is-hurting-menstruating-women) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Fighting for the Incarcerated Who Struggle to Find Menstrual Hygiene Products KH addresses her desire to discuss menstrual hygiene and incarceration, which stems from her personal experience and advocacy work. ![Kimberly](data:image/png;base64,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) KH addresses her desire to discuss menstrual hygiene and incarceration, which stems from her personal experience and advocacy work.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-fighting-for-the-incarcerated-who-struggle-to-find-menstrual-hygiene-products) [ResourcesRead ## FAQs for Teens: Your First Period These FAQs answer many questions young teens may have about periods, including “What is puberty?” “How often will I get my period?” “How do I choose a tampon?” ![FA Qs for Teens Your First Period scaled jpeg](data:image/png;base64,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) These FAQs answer many questions young teens may have about periods, including “What is puberty?” “How often will I get my period?” “How do I choose a tampon?”](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/faqs-for-teens-your-first-period) [Stories & ConversationsRead ## Dirty Business: Lack of Menstrual Equity in Colombian Prisons I worked as a teacher and coach in a medium security prison in Sogamoso, Colombia. I have seen many shocking things in my work Particularly upsetting is the paltry number of menstrual pads (about 25 per year) that women inmates receive. ![Toallas carcel 3](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAFJUlEQVRIiVVW3c7stg2c4Y+82wJ9/+ve592CImjyWSSnF/LuSRezAi3LHpMUh+K/f/sNgKSZ6VZXd/XevXfvuw7un32Muqt2VfVUz7RmpAFEiAQJGkgeGyQJAwQIEgR8/8AzD0mfCUiQzudA0OfWM0g4EwKeG5LiTOqs/kAS5mNI0kijOatGEp5RxwNIJGACoCEIEiJJhGa+BJo5wLT02FL/zXgwMydEOASQKBNAwAAeEHgIpMH37ed5zYlyTz/jdKtb3dN17PkQECI1FAkKRuikAQh1n9hpRj3TT66n6xmnp0vzXD6ohxgaaEh9ADMcJhACYrqedIymWz3q1pS69XBsdU3t6T1dXTUHxyENMMTYhwOmZzsBpELdTwpGz9t/vbq+HA+qpnZX9f4QTBNNjDhmD4FRMIASEPrlwajnSWOXpjCl2eoHjxO1Z9fs6ip1aZpqso2HY2ADk5nAx4NfIUI3etCFaXRj6m/YmC/T3bt6b1VpNtVkiW3W9JE9gAlEYOa7/TGD6TNSDTUf46FRb/U9dc/ec99TW72pTWzYptd40wve8KGGnOB8KmVEDTWGsZM3DTFEn0uqqMJs9Fb9zP6Z+1b9QD/GH9oP48fyT+CvU2gEaAh+yt2eEpcgg5wag5uccMo5RhkGaqg0W3XP/af2n5j/gn9Y/gEABjpMMMAIEmH86g5BPkViBjMZx22c42xnOczkJmKoVj8c7N/lf4lAgIAR5jCHB2gIN4MASnoicuocEHAkyDXe7VEWYeXmDlKEMI2+1X+BjzSYwwIeiIQHzBDh8RE+STM2bmyjGewhE6SZme6urr09wsPNjcajyTQwYAlPxEJcyPUhyEh8RfjRzO5ubzdzmh1pfxpGTe2qVZVr5225VG/4v2z9xxZ8wS/E9crXO9eKSHOLzPVpA19N6pnpaa9ydzMjTTi7V1VTe/bdcVfvlgSZ5T/9NfH2eK98r/XKXBnp5hZrXZ/2cprGSJrpno4qjzB3mgOUOIMq1J59z76nS6BB6dnxZrwi35nvzFeuK/MhuK6nX/HTjI5kd3e31zYPmgM2sm7uwt66t3Krh7CArsiJt8U78p3rH+t65boy0t0t1vXC0xsejtO/eqa7vNL9pjngI/Zgl/bW2tobPQYLqCMVb8t3rneu91rvxwN3j+v1fhwgwNN+NecI0B1V7gELwEas5i7cW2vr3qgxWQAdiXx5vjPf6xBcV+aK//fg6UFnQ50oVVWZB+iC9XAXdum+dd9YGzUGS6EjGW/PV+ZrPRxXrl8EnzL5cgjHhfIqWoA2sG6cz89r8jW5lW2ykCYX84p85Xqt9brWa61XruXuHuu6wHOK+XJ8+1t71clwD6u0ttY96+r8mbgUzbGQJhbjirhWvFZeVz4E4e6R1wU8R6UvTs11t3uRJlkNdmntyZ/O1bkml6I4LGEiLa7Ia+VaeV15rbxWrgi3yLwedeUvGkAz49M0F9jiau09uTpXx6pYFdmRGJggT/MMXyvWFevKdeXKXOHhEZkgyI+u2KN0o5lu0AT0oNbE3ZEVuSNXZHm2pxw8BJEZsTyvg1gZK8IPwZOAIzwkBWA0p4uPFK3YHbkjIiIjwj080mNMFORhFmmZHum5ItNjHU0Mc+fJwRHHjwcma1LC+IS3h7uHe9gvuHnYQJC5PZOR7mGeHvkhMP8mwIzfHJyTrbnM3dzN/GPYY9uBBNHN3M3ib8sehJk9ITKeKIEgNDNmNCNppNHMaKSZGZ/fYwifNfwaRnvwP5puHlapxy87AAAAAElFTkSuQmCC) I worked as a teacher and coach in a medium security prison in Sogamoso, Colombia. I have seen many shocking things in my work Particularly upsetting is the paltry number of menstrual pads (about 25 per year) that women inmates receive.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/dirty-business-lack-of-menstrual-equity-in-colombian-prisons)