Can Yeast Grow on Your Menstrual Cup or Disc? Here’s What to Know + How to Keep It Clean

by Jendaya Lilly May 6, 2025

Edited: May 6, 2025

Yes—and here's why.

Candida albicans, the yeast behind most yeast infections, loves warm, moist environments. If you use a menstrual cup or disc during a yeast infection, yeast can cling to the surface. Without proper cleaning, it can stick around and cause recurring infections.

If you've been wondering, “Can yeast live on my menstrual cup?”—the answer is yes. But with proper menstrual cup hygiene and care, it’s totally preventable.

Improperly cleaned cups or discs may contribute to recurring yeast infections, especially if yeast is not fully removed between cycles.

How to Prevent Yeast on Your Menstrual Cup or Disc

To prevent yeast from growing on your reusable menstrual product, here are 5 must-dos:

1. Clean After Every Use

Use a pH-balanced, fragrance-free wash like:

These are specially formulated for menstrual cups and gentle enough for daily use.

2. Use Feminine Wipes on the Go

For quick clean-ups when you’re away from home, grab a pack of Pixie Feminine Wipes.

3. Sanitize Between Cycles

Boiling is a tried-and-true method to sanitize menstrual cups and discs, but Pixie makes it easier with:

Pixie Sophie Steamer: A powerful menstrual cup steamer that kills yeast and bacteria in minutes, no stove required.
Pixie Ginny Sanitizer: Boils water for you at the push of a button.

Whether you use the Sophie Steamer or Ginny Sanitizer, both function as a powerful cup sanitizer for yeast, using high heat to eliminate harmful pathogens safely and efficiently.

4. Dry Completely Before Storage

Yeast thrives in damp conditions. After cleaning or steaming, let your cup air dry fully before storing it.

5. Store in a Breathable Bag

Always store your cup or disc in a cotton pouch—like the one that comes with your Pixie Cup—to prevent trapped moisture.

Menstrual Cup Cleaning Routine: Step-by-Step Deep Clean

If you’ve had a yeast infection and used your cup or disc during it, it’s critical to deep clean and sanitize your product before using it again.

Here’s how to clean a menstrual cup after a yeast infection:

Step 1: Wash Thoroughly

Use the Pixie Gel Wash or Foam Wash with warm water.

Step 2: Optional Hydrogen Peroxide Soak

Soak in a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide + water (1:1 ratio) for 30 minutes to break down any stubborn yeast.

Step 3: Sanitize Thoroughly

Steam using the Pixie Sophie Steamer or boil with the Pixie Ginny Sanitizer. This ensures yeast, bacteria, and other pathogens are killed completely.

Both the Sophie Steamer and Ginny Sanitizer use high-temperature to deeply sanitize your cup or disc, making them ideal for preventing and eliminating yeast without harsh chemicals.

Step 4: Mist for Extra Freshness

Use Pixie Sanitizing Mist to give your cup or disc a quick disinfecting spritz between uses.

Step 5: Air Dry + Store

Let your cup dry completely before placing it in a breathable storage bag.

Keep It Clean with Pixie Essentials

Ready to level up your cup care? Our Pixie Cleaning Essentials include everything you need to keep your cup or disc clean, sanitized, and protected from yeast and bacteria:

👉 Explore the full collection here:
Pixie Cleaning Essentials