Vaginal Cleanser Tips: What Actually Works for Freshness

What You Really Need to Know About Vaginal Cleansers

If you've ever felt confused about whether to use a vaginal cleanser, you're not alone. Most people want to feel clean and fresh but worry about disrupting their body’s natural balance. The truth? Your vagina is self-cleaning. You don’t need fancy products for day-to-day care. But if you’re looking for something to help with odor after your period or workouts, or to feel more comfortable, there are gentle options—just skip anything harsh or heavily scented.

Common Mistakes People Make

Using scented soaps or body wash: These can irritate sensitive skin and mess with your body’s natural pH.
Douching regularly: This can actually increase your risk for infections like BV and yeast infections.
Ignoring irritation: If a product burns or itches, stop using it right away. Mild, fragrance-free cleansers are safest.

How to Use a Vaginal Cleanser Safely

Stick to washing the vulva (the external area), not inside your vagina.
Choose a cleanser with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 to match your body’s natural environment.
Use lukewarm water and a small amount of product. Rinse thoroughly.
Avoid rough washcloths—use your hand to prevent microtears.

When to Skip Cleansers Altogether

If you’re prone to irritation, infections, or have sensitive skin, less is often more. Stick to just water. If you notice persistent odor, unusual discharge, or discomfort, see your doctor instead of reaching for new products.

Natural Options and Ingredients to Look For

Look for cleansers with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or calendula. Avoid parabens, sulfates, and artificial dyes. A short ingredient list is a good sign. Some people find plant-based probiotics help with odor or balance—these won’t replace medical treatment but may support everyday comfort.

Truely Health’s Approach

Truely Health offers science-backed probiotics and clean, plant-based products that support vaginal health without harsh additives. If you’re looking for a gentle, natural boost, check out their options at truelyhealth.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I really need to use a vaginal cleanser every day?

You don’t need to use a vaginal cleanser daily. Most people only need lukewarm water for routine washing. Overusing cleansers can cause irritation.

2. What ingredients should I avoid in a vaginal cleanser?

Skip anything with fragrances, parabens, or harsh sulfates. These can throw off your pH and trigger irritation or allergies.

3. Can using a vaginal cleanser prevent infections?

No cleanser can guarantee infection prevention. In fact, overuse or using the wrong product can actually increase your risk for infections like BV or yeast.

4. Is it safe to use a vaginal cleanser during my period?

Yes, it’s safe to gently clean your vulva with a mild, pH-balanced cleanser during your period—but there’s no need to clean inside your vagina.

5. What’s the difference between washing the vulva and the vagina?

The vulva is the external area you can safely wash. The vagina is internal and cleans itself—no cleansers needed there.

6. Why does my vaginal area sometimes smell after using a cleanser?

Some cleansers disrupt your natural pH, leading to odor. Stick with gentle, unscented products and never use cleanser internally.

7. How do I choose a safe vaginal cleanser?

Look for a fragrance-free, pH-balanced formula. Fewer ingredients are usually better. Brands like Truely Health focus on clean, science-backed options.

8. Can plant-based probiotics really help with vaginal health?

Some people find probiotics support healthy bacteria balance. While they can help with comfort, they’re not a cure for infections—see your doctor for ongoing issues.

9. Does Truely Health make vaginal cleansers?

Truely Health doesn’t make cleansers, but they do offer probiotics and plant-based supplements designed to support vaginal and overall health.

10. Is it normal to have some odor even if I use a cleanser?

Yes, a mild scent is totally normal. A strong, fishy, or unusual odor could signal an infection—don’t try to mask it with cleanser, check with your doctor.

Vaginal cleanser

Truely Her - Women's Intimate Care

Truely Fit - Weight Management

Truely Pro: Plant-Based Protein - Unflavoured