Do you really need intimate hygiene products?
Last updated 2 July 2025
This article has been medically reviewed for accuracy and relevance by Caley Maxwell, Registered Nurse (NZRN, PGDip Microbiology).
Disclaimer
This content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or personal care.
The conversation around intimate hygiene can feel confusing, if not overwhelming. With shelves full of washes, wipes, and sprays all claiming to keep you “fresh”, it’s no wonder people are left wondering: Do I actually need to use these products?
At Maebl, we believe that less is often more. Your vulva is smart, self-sufficient, and doesn’t need to be scrubbed, masked, or perfumed to be healthy. But we also know that there are times when a little extra support is helpful.
This guide explores what your vulva actually needs to stay well, and where Maebl fits in when it comes to thoughtful, microbiome-friendly care.
Psst - Your vulva knows what it’s doing
Your vulvovaginal area is one of the most finely tuned ecosystems in the body. The vagina is self-cleaning, thanks to naturally occurring secretions and a delicate balance of good bacteria, primarily Lactobacilli. These bacteria maintain an acidic pH (around 3.8-5, with normal values sitting at 4-4.5 for people of reproductive age, and slightly higher than 4.5 for postmenopausal women) that keeps harmful microbes in check.
The external area, the vulva, is equally as clever. While it doesn’t clean itself the same way the vagina does, it usually only needs gentle care to stay balanced and comfortable.
So, do you need to wash your vulva?
Yes, but gently. Daily washing with lukewarm water is sufficient for most people.
There’s usually no need for soaps, foaming washes, or scented products. In fact, many of these can strip the vulval skin of its natural oils, disrupt the pH, and irritate the microbiome; especially if they’re fragranced or not designed for intimate skin.
If you do use an intimate wash, choose one that’s:
Unscented or very lightly scented with natural ingredients
Microbiome-friendly and pH-appropriate
Free from sulphates and harsh surfactants
And what about those “in-between” moments?
While water is enough for most daily care, we also live full lives - we’re on planes, at the gym, having sex, working long hours, on our periods, or postpartum. There are times when you might want to feel more hydrated or refreshed but don’t have access to a shower or the ability to change clothes or underwear.
That’s where Maebl comes in.
Our products aren’t designed to replace your shower routine. They exist to support you in moments when hydration or a quick refresh is needed - without compromising the health of your intimate microbiome.
What about periods, sex, and sweat?
Let’s be clear: All. Of. These. Are. Natural. Normal. Parts. Of. Life.
They might change how you feel, but they don’t mean your vulva is dirty.
Here’s a few ways you can care for yourself with confidence:
On your period: Change pads, tampons, and period undies, and empty moon-cups regularly (each product has its own recommended guidelines). Rinse the vulva with water or microbiome friendly mist, if needed.
After sex: Peeing after sex can reduce your risk of UTIs. A gentle rinse with water or a microbiome-friendly mist can help you feel comfortable, especially if lubricants were used.
After workouts or sweat-heavy days: A quick refresh with a soft cloth and water, or a non-irritating mist, can do the trick. Avoid tight, synthetic underwear where possible.
There’s no need to douse your vulva in soap or fragrance to feel clean. In fact, doing so could cause more problems than it solves.
What if I want to use a product?
That’s entirely your choice, and it should be an informed one. For many people, using a gentle, evidence-based product feels comforting, especially when navigating:
Sensitive or dry skin
Hormonal changes (cycle phases, perimenopause, pregnancy, postpartum)
Increased discharge or sweating
Travel or busy routines
The wilderness
At Maebl, we’re not here to tell you that you must use intimate care products. We’re here for the moments when you choose to - when you want support that’s respectful of your anatomy, your microbiome, and your lifestyle.
In summary: Know your body. Respect its needs.
So, is intimate hygiene necessary?
Yes, but not in the way it’s often sold to us.
You don’t need harsh soaps, floral-scented foams, or marketing that preys on shame. Most of the time, lukewarm water and breathable underwear are enough. When life calls for something more, Maebl offers gentle, natural, science-backed care - without fear or fluff. Supporting your intimate wellbeing should be thoughtful, not fearful.
Explore Maebl’s microbiome-friendly collection
Whether you’re navigating busy days, working out, or flying long-haul, Maebl is here to help you care for your vulva without overdoing it. Every product is crafted with purpose, pH-considered, and dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin.
References
Lin, Y. P., Chen, W. C., Cheng, C. M., & Shen, C. J. (2021). Vaginal pH Value for Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Common Vaginitis. Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland), 11(11), 1996. https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics11111996
Bohbot, J.-M., Rebelo, C., & Nappi, R. E. (2025). Vulvar Care: Reviewing Concepts in Daily Hygiene. Healthcare, 13(13), 1523. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13131523
Graziottin A. (2024). Maintaining vulvar, vaginal and perineal health: Clinical considerations. Women's health (London, England), 20, 17455057231223716. https://doi.org/10.1177/17455057231223716
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. (2013.). Skin conditions of the vulva [Patient information leaflet]. https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/skin-conditions-of-the-vulva/