Literally, WHY are there bleach patches in my underwear?

Have you ever pulled your undies from the wash only to find white bleach-like stains in the crotch? Seriously, though. WHAT GIVES?

Well, we’re here to tell you it’s not your washing skills (or lack thereof), and there’s nothing wrong with your underwear. It’s super common, and it actually comes down to one thing: discharge.

Yep. Your discharge (aka cervical mucus) is the culprit behind those bleached undies.

As annoying as those stains are, they’re actually totally normal. But because we’re not about waste at Vee HQ, we’ve got a few tricks to help minimise the knicker turnover caused by discolouration. So, let’s get into WTF is going on in your undies - and what you can do about it.

Why does discharge bleach your underwear?

Your hoo-ha sits on the acidic end of the pH scale, and when your discharge reacts with fabric (and sometimes laundry detergents), it can leave behind those bleach-like stains. The more acidic your vaginal environment, the higher the chance of discolouration.

Not sure WTF a pH scale is? This blog will help you get your hoo-ha’s pH balance in check.

Can you stop your discharge from bleaching your underwear?

Beyond keeping your vaginal pH as balanced as possible, there’s not much you can do - because discharge is a natural and necessary bodily function.

That said, you might notice more staining at certain points in your cycle. If this is an issue for your fave undies, try wearing a liner during those phases. Our fabulous High-Waisted Vee Underwear pairs perfectly with liners, offering enough surface area to hold that protective layer in place. Want to brush up on how your discharge changes throughout your cycle? This informative little read has you covered.

If all else fails, you could, y’know, lean into the whole tie-dye aesthetic. It suits you. And for the record - this isn’t harmful in any way, shape, or form.

BONUS: What not to do

Don’t use a tampon to ‘protect’ your undies.
We know it might be tempting, but using a tampon for anything other than your period increases your risk of infection. Bacteria love the warm, dark, and moist environment of the vagina, and adding a tampon into the mix gives them even more places to thrive - leading to a potential imbalance.

If you’re ever concerned about staining, pH levels, or general hoo-ha health, chat with your GP or gynaecologist for peace of mind. Trust us, they see a lot of vaginas.