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We know what you're probably thinking. Can a pair of undies really save me from a pant-staining mishap on my heaviest flow days? The answer is…yes. The best period underwear can, in fact, provide ample leak protection (though any sleeping position, too) thanks to its supreme moisture-wicking fabrics. “Period underwear has highly absorbent material that collects blood and also prevents the fluid from being close to the vaginal skin,” says Jessica Shepherd M.D., chief medical officer of Verywell Health.
Gynecologists say you can also use them as a replacement for pads and tampons (making them a good sustainable product for periods), even when you're sleeping.“We all know the unpleasant part of using a pad and the irritation that can occur. Period panties are a great way to get protection and comfort together,” says Cynthia Robbins M.D., a board-certified OB/GYN at the Eight Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology Office in Fort Worth, Texas.
So, how exactly did we pick? To help you find the very best period underwear on the market, we polled the experts (ya know, people who menstruate) and curated a list of the top-reviewed products so you can feel confident about your purchase. You'll find top-rated panties from brands like Saalt, Aerie, Modibodi, and more.
Ahead, check out 14 of the best period underwear brands and the options they offer for different flows, bodies, colors, and budgets.
The best period panties:
- Best overall period underwear: Proof Teen Hipster Period Underwear, $33
- Best period underwear on Amazon: Innersy Women's Hipster Period Underwear, $24
- Best period underwear for running: Saalt Leakproof Comfort Boyshort, $45
- Best period underwear for sleeping: Modibodi Period Protection Underwear, $24
- Best period underwear for heavy flow: Knix Mixed Flow Period Kit, $117
- Best PFA-free period underwear: Cora Period Underwear, $25
- Best Disposable period underwear: Always ZZZ disposable underwear, $17
- Most size-inclusive period panties: Neione Period Underwear, $23
- Most popular period underwear: Thinx Sport Hiphugger, $35
- Most affordable period underwear: Hanes Period, $15
- Most comfortable period underwear: Aerie Real, $20
- Most stylish period underwear: Victoria's Secret, $23
All your period underwear questions, answered:
- Is period underwear really absorbent enough to replace pads?
- What are the benefits of using period underwear?
- What style of period panties should you look for?
- How do you wash period underwear?
- How does period underwear work?
- Meet the gynecologists we consulted
Best overall period underwear
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courtesy of Teen Vogue commerce director, Brie Schwartz
Available everywhere from Amazon to Nordstrom, Proof's underwear offers the highest level of coverage thanks to its special Leak-Loc technology. Designed to hug the body from the front waistband to the back, these undies have a gusset lining in the middle that extends into the front and back, all the way up to the waistband. This mid-rise silhouette offers moderate coverage, making it a great choice for teens who need extra coverage during heavy flow days or for added nighttime coverage. “It's just as comfortable as my go-to cotton undies; these seamless period panties feel like you’re wearing pretty much nothing (all things considered),” says Teen Vogue commerce director, Brie Schwartz. “I’ve worn them under bathing suits in the ocean before without any leak or incident. They also wash and rinse out quickly and are, of course, quick-drying.”
- Absorbency: Equivalent to five tampons.
- Pros: ✓ Reviewers say they’re super comfortable ✓ Reviewers say they’re “smoothing” with no panty lines
- Con: X Some options are on the pricier side
- Size Range: S – XL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, tumble dry.
- Materials: Nylon, spandex
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black, purple, teal, galaxy
- Return Policy: Free returns
Best period underwear on Amazon
If you want to skip panty liners, pads, and tampons on light and medium-flow days, reviewers rave about Innersy's underwear — though the brand suggests that you may want to use menstrual products in conjunction with their panties on your second, third, and fourth day upon first use, just to be sure. Designed from a cotton and spandex fabric blend, these hipster undies are machine-washable, high-lined, and provide full coverage to keep your clothes from getting stained. They're great for spotting, those with light flows, or those who just want some extra coverage with their normal period products. They're also great for postpartum mothers or teens who want extra security.
- Absorbency: The brand does not state how many pads/tampons these undies can absorb, however, they state these are great for a lighter flow.
- Pros: ✓ Offers a variety of colors ✓ Affordable
- Con: X May not provide enough protection for your heaviest days
- Size Range: XS – XXXXXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash on hot, tumble dry.
- Materials: Cotton, spandex
- Fit: Hipster
- Color: Black, blue, grey, brown, wine, white, green, stripes
- Return Policy: Free returns on some sizes and colors
Best period underwear for running
courtesy of Teen Vogue contributor Iman Balagam
Saalt believes that reusable is the future, which is why the brand has developed everything from menstrual cups to period underwear. The brand's Leakproof Comfort Boyshort may be our favorite due to the extended gusset, high absorbency, and super soft modal fabric made from renewable beech wood. “Unlike cotton panties, these are super breathable and don't stick to my skin while working out,” says Teen Vogue contributor Iman Baglaman. “They’re great for light flow days, and I don’t mind wearing them to workout classes, especially since there is a thong option that I can wear with leggings sans panty lines.”
- Absorbency: Equivalent to four regular tampons
- Pros: ✓ Reviewers say they’re very comfortable ✓ High-absorbency options
- Con: X On the pricier side
- Size Range: XS – XXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry.
- Materials: Cotton
- Fit: Boyshort
- Color: Black, grey, blush, brown, blue
- Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
Best period underwear for heavy flow
Dr. Shepherd recommends Knix’s period panties, which offer leakproof coverage (also for bladder leaks), are super absorbent, and feature playful designs. If you’re a fitness fiend looking for a bunch of options that will fit your workout routine, look no further than the brand’s Mixed Flow Period Kit. The kit includes two pairs of super leakproof underwear (absorbs eight tampons), two pairs of leakproof underwear (absorbs two tampons), and one pair of super leakproof dream shorts (designed for overnight period protection and absorbs a whopping 12 tampons!). Teen Vogue tester, Mary H mentioned, “Since I got an IUD last year, I don’t really get a full period, rather spotting for a day. I felt like I was wasting tampons when that time rolled around. This underwear is perfect — I specifically wear the thong on my half-period days, and I feel protected. It’s easy, and now I no longer have to spend money on tampons.”
- Absorbency: The liquid hold ranges from eight to twelve tampons depending on the style.
- Pros: ✓ Very comfortable ✓ Super leakproof options can hold up to 8 tampons' worth
- Con: X Some reviewers claim the sizing is inconsistent
- Size Range: XS – XXXXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, air dry. Do not bleach.
- Materials: Nylon, spandex
- Fit: Choose from boyshort, bikini, and high-rise options
- Color: Black, dune, warm sand, cavassa, sola, sable
- Return Policy: No returns. You may exchange for another size, style or store credit.
Most size-inclusive period panties
For an affordable-but-still-absorbent option, check out Neione. All of the brand's undies come in various packs, saving you some much-needed coins. Also nice: They have multiple color options, so you can find the perfect pair to match your mood. Our favorites are the high-cut bikinis, which come in a three-pack, hold one tampon worth of liquid, and feature a gusset reaching all the way up to the waistband. “I’m a heavy flow gal, and these have been good for times when I have been paranoid about leaks,” says Teen Vogue tester, Victoria. “I’m personally not a tampon girl, so using a tampon and pad for extra protection isn't for me — this is a great solution for those times.”
- Absorbency: Equivalent to one tampon.
- Pros:✓ Features cute, high-cut styles ✓ More affordable than most brands
- Con: X Because they are stretchy, it's best to order a size down
- Size Range: XXS – XXXXL
- Care Instructions: Wash on hot and tumble dry. Note: Do not use fabric softener, as this can create a coating on the fabric and reduce its absorbency.
- Materials: Modal, spandex
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black, nudes, macaron, patterned
- Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
Most popular period underwear
With full gusset coverage, you can walk, dance, run, and do so much more in these comfortable period undies from Thinx. As one of the first brands to hit the period underwear market, the company has undergone quite an evolution since they initially only sold one panty on their site. Now, they offer every styles ranging from hiphuggers to boyshorts and sleepshorts, along with different absorbency levels catering to your lightest periods and heaviest flow days. There's also a Thinx Teen collection with smaller sizes, but the women's sizes fit just as well. Teen Vogue tester, Ashley remarked, “I wear these every period, especially to sleep in or if I’m not going anywhere around my house because I’m lazy and I love the convenience.”
- Absorbency: Depends on the style you choose, but it ranges from one to five tampons' worth.
- Pros: ✓ Offers a variety of absorbency levels and underwear styles ✓ Comes in cute colors and patterns
- Con: X Because they are snug, it's best to order a size up
- Size Range: XS – XXXXL
- Care Instructions: Hand wash or machine wash cold on a delicate cycle. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Air dry.
- Materials: Cotton, spandex
- Fit: Hiphugger, boyshort, brief, bikini, sleep short, hi-waist
- Color: Black, blue, red, grey, patterned
- Return Policy: 45-day money-back guarantee
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No more embarrassing panty stains here! These cotton undies not only look (and feel) like your favorite pair of cozy undies but also stay in place without digging into your skin — no wedgie zone! They feature an absorbent material that covers the entire back section of the panty, which is great for sitting in class. On top of that, there's a wide array of variety packs with cute patterns and colors available, so you're not limited to the basic nude options.
- Absorbency: The brand does not state the exact amount of liquid it can hold. However, they do note that you should use a pad or tampon for extra coverage.
- Pros: ✓ Very comfortable ✓ Comes in cute colors and patterns
- Con: X Because they are snug, it's best to order a size up
- Size Range: XS – XXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash, air dry.
- Materials: Cotton, spandex
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black, blue, grey, navy, pink, red, stripes, polka dots, checkerboard
- Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
Most affordable period underwear
courtesy of Teen Vogue contributor Iman Balagam
Hanes offers a diverse range of products, including underwear, bralettes, socks, tees, and more. Notably, all of their period undies feature a built-in absorbent liner crafted from moisture-wicking fabric, ensuring exceptional absorption while keeping you cool and dry. This design makes them an excellent choice for those seeking to avoid the heavy, saggy sensation that some period underwear can bring. Our favorite piece from the brand is their brief underwear, providing full-coverage support without appearing bulky.“These briefs are essentially granny panties, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need,” remarks Teen Vogue contributor Iman. “On days I just want to rot in my apartment, I go for these because they are as comfy as they are reliable.”
- Absorbency: The brand does not state the exact amount of liquid it can hold, however, they do note that you should use a pad or tampon for extra coverage.
- Pros: ✓ Affordable prices with lots of deals ✓ Moisture-wicking fabric
- Con: X Some reviewers say they tend to run a little smaller than regular underwear
- Size Range: 6-10
- Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, tumble dry on low, or hang dry. Do not use fabric softener or bleach.
- Materials: Cotton, polyester, spandex
- Fit: Brief
- Color: Black, beige, gray
- Return Policy: No returns. Unworn and unwashed products may be replaced if there is an issue with fit or style.
Most comfortable period underwear
courtesy of Teen Vogue contributor Iman Balagam
With a soft, stretchy, breathable fabric, antibacterial and odor-reducing layers, and a leakproof finish, you'll wonder why you haven't been using these Aerie undies all along. Customers have given these period panties high ratings, and it's no wonder why — they come in several super-adorable patterns while sporting a breathable cotton fabric that's anti-bacterial and has odor-reducing layers. Bonus points: It also has an absorbent, moisture-wicking gusset for leakproof protection.
- Absorbency: Equivalent to two tampons.
- Pros: ✓ Very affordable ✓ Comes in cute colors and patterns
- Con: X Some reviewers say they run big
- Size Range: XXS – XXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, tumble dry.
- Materials: Cotton, elastane
- Fit: Boybrief
- Color: Black, grey, blue, floral, stripes
- Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
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For an added level of protection, consider ordering these fantastic period undies. They're available in a value pack with several pairs in different colors. These super-cute panties are stretchy and designed not to ride up or wedge, offering extra protection from leaks, particularly when you're sleeping. The machine-washable panties also come in a wide range of sizes, from XS to 2XL, and feature a water-resistant lining. You can use them as a backup to your regular period products or as a way to add extra coverage.
- Absorbency: The brand does not state the exact amount of liquid it can hold. However, they do note that you should use a pad or tampon for extra coverage.
- Pros: ✓ Have a wide elastic waistband that doesn't dig into the skin ✓ Reviewers say they’re comfortable and breathable
- Con: X Some reviewers say that they don't offer a lot of breathability
- Size Range: XS – XXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, air dry.
- Materials: Cotton, spandex
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black, white, grey, blue, green, yellow, red, navy
- Return Policy: With any issue, the brand offers a 100 percent money-back guarantee within 180 days
Most stylish period underwear
Dr. Shepherd recommends Victoria’s Secret period panties, and reviewers are in agreement. This bikini silhouette pick holds a generous amount of liquid without looking or feeling saggy. It has a low-rise cut, is machine-washable, has a moisture-wicking gusset, and a stretchy smoothing fabric. The design also features lace trim and moderate back coverage (the brand claims the underwear "shows a little, but not all").
- Absorbency: Equivalent to two regular tampons.
- Pros: ✓ Affordable ✓ Come in a variety of fun colors, patterns, and cuts
- Con: X Some reviewers say the padding feels too thick
- Size Range: XS – XXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry.
- Materials: Polyamide, elastane
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black, green, maroon, hearts
- Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
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Nalwort's natural cotton and spandex period panties serve as both menstrual and postpartum underwear. Unlike some others on this list, these panties are intended to be worn in conjunction with tampons, pads, or on very light days, and their design is well-suited for this purpose. They feature a high waistband for support and a three-layer leak-proof lining design that is sufficiently long and wide to accommodate pads.
- Absorbency: The brand does not state the exact amount of liquid it can hold. However, they do note that you should use a pad or tampon for extra coverage.
- Pros: ✓ Inclusive size range ✓ Comes in cute colors
- Con: X Some reviewers say they run small
- Size Range: S – XXXL
- Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, air dry.
- Materials: Natural cotton, spandex, polyester
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black, blue, green, grey, pink, orange, navy, red
- Return Policy: Free returns if defective, wrong size, or wrong item
Best PFA-free period underwear
courtesy of Teen Vogue contributor Iman Balagam
Cora's period underwear is made without azo dyes, toxic chemicals, and PFAs. "The fabric feels really soft and the style is cute," wrote one reviewer. This bikini-style underwear is great for moderate-flow days and can hold up to three tampons while you go about your day. It also features a soft, breathable fabric that helps to wick away liquid, keeping you dry and comfortable. The brand suggests using it with a tampon or cup for added protection, depending on your flow.
- Absorbency: Equivalent to three regular tampons.
- Pros: ✓ With every purchase made, the brand donates period products and body literacy resources to people who might otherwise go without
- Con: X Some reviewers say the tags are itchy
- Size Range: XS – XXL
- Care Instructions: Hand wash only, air dry.
- Materials: Cotton
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black
- Return Policy: Free returns on some sizes
Best Disposable period underwear
For many people, the idea of cleaning their period panties is what dissuades them the most, as often you have to wring them out and pre-wash before tossing them into the washer. These disposable period underwear from Always absorb as much as five of the brand’s Ultra Thin pads and feel just like regular underwear. Unlike the pads, these stay in place no matter how much you toss and turn. They're available in multiple sizes, and each box contains seven panties, roughly one pair for each night of your cycle.
- Absorbency: Equivalent to five Always Ultra Thin Pads
- Pros: ✓ Feels like regular underwear, soft and breathable, FSA-eligible
- Con: X Best to wear only at night.
- Size Range: S/M, L/XL
- Care Instructions: disposable
- Materials: Cotton
- Fit: Bikini
- Color: Black
First of all, is period underwear really absorbent enough to replace pads?
It all depends on your own flow. "For heavy bleeders, it's important to know that you may need to use another form of coverage, such as a period disc or cup," says Dr. Shepherd. If you do have a heavy flow, they can serve as added protection. “They are great for heavy bleeders that might need another barrier when using tampons or pads,” says Dr. Shepherd.
What are the benefits of using period underwear?
Compared to tampons, pads, and menstrual cups, the best period underwear can be a more stylish, comfortable, and even environmentally friendly pick. “Period underwear is a sustainable and convenient option,” says Monica Grover, M.D., a double-board certified gynecologist and chief medical officer at VSPOT. “It also helps to reduce menstrual leaking from pads and tampons if worn too long, or if you experience heavy flows.” Plus, they're great for sleeping in if you don't want to wear a tampon for 8+ hours (beware TSS). And, if you suffer from cramps during the night, you can lay on your side without having to worry if you're bleeding onto your sheets.
What style of period panties should you look for?
Consider the kind of coverage you need, depending on your style preference and flow. Boyshorts, sleep shorts, and hipster designs offer more coverage and tend to hold more liquid (these are good for running and working out), though bikini and thong styles can also hold an impressive amount.
It is important to note that the absorbency levels differ by brand. Proof period undies come in a range of absorbency levels, starting from super light, which holds up to one light tampon, all the way to super heavy, which holds up to five regular tampons. Additionally, Knix offers underwear sets that include panties for medium, heavy, and super-heavy flows. This means you can swap out your undies depending on your flow level that day. (Having a range of absorbency levels is great, especially if you're a teen who is navigating their period for the first time and you're unsure of how heavy it will be.)
And period underwear isn’t just for periods: “It has multiple benefits and can be worn [by] folks who are experiencing the early stages of incontinence, and also, postpartum bleeding,” says Dr. Grover.
How do you wash period underwear?
Most period undies are machine washable (we've got tips on how to remove blood from regular panties, too), making it easy to toss into the hamper with the rest of your dirty clothes. However, these panties should be cleaned very frequently.
“You should wash your period underwear after each use to ensure they're hygienic and safe for you to wear,” says Dr. Grover. Generally, you treat them like your favorite delicates: wash them on a gentle, cold cycle, then let them air-dry (don’t put them in the dryer because they might shrink).
However, each brand has different washing instructions, so make sure you read those beforehand. For example, Modibodi's period panties work best when you wash them before wearing them for the first time since this will activate the technology in the gusset for high absorbency. Some brands also recommend that you rinse their period underwear with cold water before throwing them in the wash.
“Always read the instructions on your delicates, but when in doubt, rinse with cold water first and hand wash or use the cold water and delicate settings on your washing machine,” Dr. Grover explains. “Also, do not wash with fragrant cleansers or detergents, which can irritate the most sensitive skin.”
And, because these undies will most likely have various period blood color stains, it's important to know how to get 'em out. For best results, wash the underwear in cold water as soon as you notice the stain. However, if the stain has been there for some time, grab an ice cube. Ice cubes are great when it comes to lifting and removing protein-based stains (read: blood). Simply use the edge of the cube and gently rub at the stained area. The result? Blood-free panties.
How does period underwear work?
The power of period underwear lies in the fabric being used. While they may look like regular underwear, they often contain extra layers and moisture-wicking fabric in the crotch area that absorbs menstrual blood and prevents it from leaking onto your clothes.
The specific fabrics utilized vary by brand, but commonly include quick-drying, absorbent, breathable, and flexible materials such as cotton, spandex, elastane, polyester, and microfibers. These fabrics ensure you feel dry throughout the day and are hardly aware that you're wearing period panties.
While period underwear can be used as a standalone option replacing tampons, pads, or menstrual cups, many individuals either combine them with a tampon or reserve them for lighter flow days, as they generally hold one to two tampons’ worth of flow. However, some period panties can handle super heavy flows, accommodating up to the equivalent of five regular tampons.
Meet the Gynecologists We Consulted
- Jessica Shepherd M.D.: chief medical officer at Verywell Health
- Cynthia Robbins M.D.:- a board-certified OB/GYN at the Eight Avenue Obstetrics and Gynecology Office in Fort Worth, Texas
- Monica Grover, M.D.: a double-board certified gynecologist and chief medical officer at VSPOT
