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Can You Tumble Dry Period Pants? Care Tips for Long-Lasting Use

Updated: Apr 4


Can You Tumble Dry Period Pants?

Investing in period pants means saying goodbye to disposables — and hello to comfort, sustainability, and reusability. But to keep them working well month after month, it’s important to treat them right. One of the most common questions we get is: can you tumble dry period pants? Let’s break down the best way to care for them — and what to avoid.


First Things First: Can You Tumble Dry Period Pants?

Short answer: No. Most period pants — including ours at Liberty Underwear — should not be tumble dried. The heat from dryers can damage the leakproof layers and reduce the absorbency over time.


Even on a low setting, regular tumble drying can:

  • Cause the waterproof barrier to break down

  • Shrink the fabric or affect the fit

  • Shorten the lifespan of your pants


So… How Should You Dry Them?

Here’s what we recommend instead:


  1. Air Dry Flat or Hang Dry: Lay them flat on a drying rack or hang them up by the waistband. Make sure they're in a well-ventilated area.

  2. Avoid Direct Sunlight for Long Periods: A bit of sun is okay, but too much UV exposure can damage the waterproof fabric.

  3. Give Them Time: Period pants may take longer to dry than regular underwear due to the absorbent layers. Give them a full 24 hours if needed.


General Washing Tips for Period Pants


To keep them fresh and functional, follow these steps:

  1. Rinse After Use: Rinse in cold water to remove most of the blood before washing.

  2. Machine Wash Cold: Wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners or bleach.

  3. Wash With Similar Colors: Just like regular underwear, avoid mixing dark and light colors.

  4. No Ironing, No Dry Cleaning: These can also damage the layers inside.


How Many Period Pants Should You Have?

Most people find that 3–5 pairs are enough for each cycle, depending on your flow and how often you do laundry.


Tumble dryers might be convenient — but they’re not period pant–friendly. Stick to air drying and gentle washes, and your leakproof underwear will stay comfy, absorbent, and reliable for years to come.

 
 
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