cleaning
Clean with tabs
Before using the sponge, clean all three sponges with one of our cleaning tablets before each period. Pour 500 ml of warm water into a container, place the sponges (including the retrieval string) in the water, and dissolve one cleaning tablet. Let it soak for 20 minutes – that's it! The tablets were developed in collaboration with a gynecologist and are laboratory tested.
Insert & Wear
Rinse the sponge with water, gently squeeze it, and shape it with two fingers (pincer grip). Then simply insert it – the sponge will adapt to your body and stay where it belongs. You can wear it for up to 8 hours. On heavy flow days, we recommend changing the sponge every 2–3 hours.
Reuse
To remove: Squat down, tighten your pelvic floor muscles, and gently pull on the retrieval string. Then rinse the sponge thoroughly under running water. During your period, water is sufficient for cleaning. Depending on the heaviness of your flow, you can use the sponge for 3 to 6 cycles.
To-Go Switch
Always let the sponges dry completely after washing before storing them in the hygiene bag. For when you're on the go, we offer our foldable to-go case: This allows you to take fresh sponges with you and store used ones hygienically and odor-free – until you wash them at home.
We've deliberately aligned our sets with standard tampon sizes to help you find what you need quickly: The Mini set is ideal for light flow days, with sponges approximately 4 cm in diameter . The Regular set is suitable for medium flow, with sponge sizes between 4.5 and 6 cm . We recommend the Super set for heavy flow days, with sponges approximately 6.5 to 8 cm in diameter. One Super sponge can absorb the equivalent of up to three Regular tampons !
How long you can use your sponges depends on the heaviness of your bleeding: For light periods they usually last up to 6 cycles , for medium periods about 4-5 cycles , and for very heavy bleeding we recommend changing them after 3-4 cycles .
Gentle cleaning with tabs
To keep your sponges hygienically fresh every month, we've developed the world's first cleaning tablets specifically for menstrual sponges in collaboration with a gynecologist. They contain only what's truly necessary – all in minimal doses and laboratory tested.
The tabs clean thoroughly with oxygen-based bleach , similar to that used in natural cosmetics. This ensures a hygienic deep clean – completely without harsh chemicals. Gentle, plant-based surfactants help to effectively dissolve residues and impurities. Mild preservatives are also included. These have an antibacterial effect and prevent germs or bacteria from multiplying in your damp sponges.
This way you can be sure: your sponges are hygienically clean – without vinegar smell, without chemicals, without risk. Simply a good feeling – every month.
Vinegar-water solution
Cleaning with a vinegar and water solution was a common method for a long time. For this, you take two parts warm water and one part mild, light-colored vinegar. The sponges should be soaked in this solution for at least five hours – ideally overnight.
However: Vinegar can irritate mucous membranes, has a strong odor, attracts fruit flies (so please cover it well!) – and its effectiveness is difficult to assess. Dosage, antibacterial effect, and skin compatibility have not been laboratory tested.
That's precisely why we developed the cleansing tablets – together with a gynecologist. For safe, fast and odor-free use – every time.
The menstrual sponge is not suitable:
in case of vaginal infections or inflammation
Please do not use the sponge if you currently have bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection, or any other infection. Only use it again after complete healing.
for boiling or drying on the radiator
The sponge is a natural product – high heat damages its structure. Please do not boil it, dry it in the sun or on a radiator. Simply let it air dry.
in combination with the diaphragm
The sponge could displace contraceptives like diaphragms or birth control gels – therefore, do not use them simultaneously. However, it can be worn without any problems with an IUD!
during the postpartum period or postpartum bleeding
During postpartum bleeding and the recovery period after childbirth, the intimate area is particularly sensitive. Please do not use the sponge until everything has fully healed.
FAQs
Do you have questions? We have answers!
How long can I wear a HERA menstrual sponge?
How long can I wear a HERA menstrual sponge?Up to 8 hours, even overnight. During the first 2 days, when bleeding is heavier, we recommend changing it every 3-4 hours.
When do I need to replace my HERA menstrual sponges?
When do I need to replace my HERA menstrual sponges?After 3–6 cycles, depending on the heaviness of the bleeding. At the latest when they become softer, less absorbent, or change color.
Can I wear the sponge while swimming, playing sports, or during sex?
Can I wear the sponge while swimming, playing sports, or during sex?Yes, it fits securely and is so soft that it neither slips nor is noticeable – even during sex.
Does insertion or wearing it hurt?
Does insertion or wearing it hurt? No, the sponge is particularly soft and adapts to your body.
