Tampons can be such a pain (literally!), but period underwear can be a complete game changer. Period panties are a machine washable alternative to regular tampons. As someone who has had a period for more than half their life, I love them! They’ve become super popular for their versatility. You can use them on their own or in addition to tampons or menstrual cups as an added layer of protection, so that you have full coverage.
Oftentimes it’s more comfortable or more convenient and provides leakproof protection that gives peace of mind for anyone who has a period. So many period underwear brands have come out of the woods too with so many period underwear options now (yay!) but which one is the best one?
After reviewing the top period underwear brands for women who want to ditch tampons for a comfortable, eco-friendly alternative, we’ve curated a list of the brands with the best period panties, and outlined the pros and cons of each underwear brand so you can shop with confidence.
Period Underwear vs. Tampons: Do Period Panties Work?
But first, how do period underwear compare to tampons? And do period panties really work? Picture this: no more worrying about leaks or feeling uncomfortable in those scratchy pads or tampons. Wearing period underwear is like wearing your comfiest undies, but with a superpower – they’re ultra-absorbent and super leakproof! It frees you from changing your tampon every few hours or worrying about any side effects that come with tampons.
Plus, they come in all sorts of cute styles and colors (just like regular underwear!), so you can feel fab even when Aunt Flo’s in town. So, do period panties work? Yes! They’re an absorbent underwear game-changer, and once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever survived without them!
How to Choose the Right Period Underwear
Choosing the right period underwear really depends on whose wearing them, but you can break down to four different factors. Typically brands will you give you an estimate based on tampons worth.
- Absorbency: is your flow light, moderate or heavy?
- Material: what do you want your underwear to feel like?
- Style & Fit: how do you want them to look and fit?
- Care: what kind of effort do you want to take care of your underwear?
Speaking of care, one easy way to keep your underwear in tip top shape, after each use, rinse in cold water (even if you’re going to wash them later).
It’s Time to Ditch Your Tampons: The Top Period Underwear Brands To Consider
If you’re looking to ditch your tampons, but not sure where to start, we’ve broken it down by brand, rating, cost and more.
Best Period Underwear Brands With Most Style Variety
Starting with the brands with the most variety! These brands offer a spectrum of different styles from a classic bikini cut to thongs.
Thinx
- Rating: 3.5/5.0
- Price Point: One pair of Thinx period underwear starts at $17 and go up to about $50, with the average pair being somewhere in the $35-38 range.
- Pros: Lots of style/design choices, size inclusivity
- Cons: Potential leakage, may contain PFAs
Starting strong with Thinx! Thinx period panties have impressive absorbency, capable of holding up to the equivalent of 5 regular tampons’ worth of flow. With five absorbency levels ranging from lightest to super absorbency, wearers have the flexibility to choose the level of protection that best suits their needs throughout their cycle.
Thinx period underwear stands out with its impressive range of options, offering 10 different styles tailored to suit various preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for comfortable sleep shorts, the sleek bikini cut, or the classic hiphugger design, Thinx has you covered.
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Beyond style, Thinx prioritizes inclusivity, with sizes ranging from XS to 4X, demonstrating their commitment to catering to diverse body types and ensuring everyone can find their perfect fit. Additionally, Thinx offers a spectrum of colors, ensuring wearers aren’t limited in their choices. This dedication to both style and inclusivity has solidified Thinx’s reputation as a leading brand in period underwear, providing comfort, confidence, and reliability.
Despite Thinx period panties boasting an array of styles, there are a few notable drawbacks that some customers have encountered. One concern raised by users is the potential for leakage, especially during exceptionally heavy flows. Some individuals have found that they may not provide adequate protection during their heaviest days. Another reported issue is the potential for odor buildup after repeated use. There has also been speculation that Thinx contains PFAS, though Thinx has denied it.
If you’re interested in a more detailed assessment of Thinx products, check out our Thinx Underwear Review!
Aisle
- Rating: 4.0/5.0
- Price Point: When it comes to Aisle period panties, the price point typically falls within the range of $25 to $50, with most options leaning toward the higher end of the spectrum.
- Pros: Matchmaker quiz, gender inclusivity, boxers
- Cons: Some styles may have visible panty lines, limited color choices, higher price point
The general rule of thumb here is that the more fabric and features you get, the more you can expect to pay. They offer sizes from XS to 5X.
One standout feature of Aisle period panties is their personalized approach to finding your perfect match–the “Matchmaker Quiz.” Answer a few questions about your period flow, preferences, and lifestyle, and voilà! You’re paired up with the ideal product to suit your needs.
This level of customization ensures that you’re getting exactly what works best for you, whether you prefer Aisle’s boxer-style period underwear, gender-neutral designs, or even a booster featuring a hemp absorbent core for extra protection.
Speaking of boxers, one of the major pros of Aisle period panties is the availability of boxers! Traditionally, period products have been designed with a more feminine aesthetic, but the introduction of Aisle’s boxers brings a refreshing gender-neutral option to the table. It’s all about inclusivity and making sure everyone feels comfortable and confident during their period, regardless of gender identity or expression.
Now, let’s talk about the cons. While Aisle period panties offer a range of benefits, one area where they may fall short is in the variety of color and design options. Compared to traditional underwear, which often boasts a plethora of colors, patterns, and styles, Aisle’s period panties may seem somewhat limited in this regard.
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However, this is a minor drawback considering the primary purpose of period panties is functionality rather than fashion. Users have also reported that some styles have visible panty lines, so better for them to fit snugly.
So while Aisle period panties may come with a slightly higher price tag, the investment is well worth it for the comfort, convenience, and personalized experience they offer. From gender-neutral options to personalized matchmaking quizzes, Aisle period panties are revolutionizing the way we approach menstrual care.
And hey, who needs a rainbow of colors when you’ve got the peace of mind knowing you’re covered – literally – during your period?
Dear Kate
- Rating: 3.0/5.0
- Price Point: $18-46, with the average being in the mid $30s
- Pros: Dear Kate coins their period undies, “The Most Breathable Period Undies” only fabric no plastic, offers hipsters, briefs, thongs, more colors
- Cons: No boxers
With a price range spanning from $18 to $46, Dear Kate’s collection caters to various budget considerations. The average price falls around the mid $30s, making their products accessible without compromising on quality or comfort.
Dear Kate coins their period undies, “The Most Breathable Period Undies” on the market. By utilizing only fabric and eschewing plastic components, they prioritize breathability and comfort, ensuring wearers feel fresh and unrestricted throughout the day.
Moreover, Dear Kate offers three main styles to suit individual preferences. Whether you prefer the coverage of hipsters, the classic silhouette of briefs, or the minimalism of thongs, they have you covered. Additionally, their extensive color palette allows for personal expression, empowering wearers to embrace their unique style while managing their periods seamlessly.
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Despite their impressive lineup, it’s important to acknowledge that Dear Kate currently does not offer boxers in their collection. This absence may pose a limitation for individuals seeking this particular style, especially those who prioritize a more masculine or gender-neutral aesthetic. Their size selection is average, ranging from XS-3X.
Expanding on Dear Kate’s strengths while addressing their limitations, it’s evident that their commitment to innovation and comfort sets them apart in the market. By continuously refining their offerings and embracing feedback from diverse consumers, Dear Kate can remain at the forefront of period underwear design.
Best Budget-Friendly Period Underwear
The biggest con with period underwear is they can be pricey which makes them less accessible. These brands are great if you’re trying to stick to a budget.
Bambody
- Rating: 3.0/5.0
- Price Point: Some of the cheapest, with single pairs at $15
- Pros: Low cost, equivalent absorbency of 2x tampons,
- Cons: Limited availability (only available on Amazon), sold out of certain sizes
Did somebody ask for the best period underwear on Amazon? Enter Bambody period panties, a convenient and affordable option available exclusively on Amazon. Priced at just $15 for single pairs, Bambody offers remarkable value with packs also available for those looking to stock up.
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These period panties boast an absorbency equivalent to 2x tampons, providing reliable protection throughout the day or night. Despite their affordability and functionality, Bambody period panties face limitations due to their limited availability.
Customers may find certain sizes sold out, potentially limiting options for those with specific sizing needs. However, for individuals seeking cost-effective and dependable period protection, Bambody remains a compelling choice, offering an accessible solution to period care needs.
Knix
- Rating: 3.5/5.0
- Price Point: Knix’s price point is $20-60, with things like swimwear being on the higher end of that. The average pair of period underwear is in the $20-30 range.
- Pros: Knix boasts UltraThin Leakproof Underwear available in bikini, high rise, boyshort, thong, period swimwear; Line specifically for teens including teen ultra thin, offer leak proof swimwear and teen specific leak proof swimwear
- Cons: Only 4 styles of period underwear
Knix offers a wide range of period underwear options including some of the best period panties for swimming. The price point varies from $20 to $60, with things like swimwear being on the higher end of that.
The average pair of period underwear is in the $20-30 range. With sizes available from XS to 4XL, Knix ensures inclusivity for individuals of all body types, although the range is not as extensive as some of the other brands mentioned.
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One of Knix’s standout features is its UltraThin Leakproof Underwear, available in bikini, high rise, boyshort, and thong, providing comfortable and reliable period protection. Additionally, Knix goes above and beyond by offering specialized lines, such as leak proof swimwear and a line specifically for teens, including teen ultra thin period underwear and leak-proof swimwear tailored to younger demographics.
Despite these innovative offerings, Knix provides only four styles of period underwear, which may limit choices for customers seeking different fits or styles.
Overall Knix shines as a top contender in the realm of period panties, particularly excelling in providing reliable leak protection for swimming activities, maybe even offering the best period panties for swimming. A favorite is their breathable Leakproof Cotton Modal High Rise!
Best Inclusive Period Underwear
Not everyone who has a period identifies in the same way, and these brands provide more inclusive options for you to express yourself however you’d like!
Goat Union
- Rating: 4.5/5.0
- Price Point: Goat Union period panties offer both affordability and comfort with their price point ranging from $17 to $30.
- Pros: Organic materials, budget friendly, FitBetter “superior-fitting underwear,” size inclusivity
- Cons: Limitations in design choices
One notable advantage of Goat Union is their commitment to organic materials, backed by PFAs (polyfluoroalkyl substances) reviews readily available on their website, ensuring certifiable organic quality that has been tested.
You can be sure that Goat Union has the best period underwear without chemicals! Additionally, their FitBetter feature boasts “superior-fitting underwear” with a distinctive ergonomic sizing system, catering to a diverse range of body types.
Inclusivity is at the forefront of Goat Union’s ethos, boasting the most expansive size range yet, from 2XS to 6XL, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect fit. Furthermore, Goat Union stands out for its affordability, offering some of the cheapest options on the market, with singles for $17 and 2 packs for $30.
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However, Goat Union faces limitations in its design choices, possibly even less choices than Aisle. With not many options in terms of designs, customers might find themselves lacking variety when it comes to selecting their preferred style.
Despite this drawback, Goat Union remains a reliable choice for those seeking budget-friendly, comfortable, and inclusive period panties that prioritize organic materials and optimal fit.
Modibodi
- Rating: 5.0/5.0
- Price Point: $29-$50
- Pros: Modibodi’s site allows you to search by color, with 10 colors/patterns available, options we haven’t yet seen, such as adaptive boyleg, swimwear, running shorts, and leggings, fun colorful teen specific underwear. Size inclusive with sizes ranging from 2XS-6XL.
- Cons: Customers have reported that Modibodi bikini styles leak out the sides, but they did not have any problems with the boxers
Modibodi period underwear has a comprehensive size range from 2XS to 6XL. Their price point is middling, ranging from $29-$50. One standout feature of Modibodi’s offerings is the ability to search by color on their website, with an impressive selection of 10 vibrant colors and patterns available.
Modibodi goes beyond traditional period underwear options, providing innovative choices such as adaptive boyleg for those with disabilities and mobility challenges. They also have swimwear, running shorts, and leggings, catering to various activities and preferences.
Additionally, Modibodi offers fun and colorful underwear specifically designed for teens, adding a touch of style and excitement to their period care routine.
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However, despite their varied offerings, some customers have reported leakage issues with Modibodi bikini styles, particularly experiencing leaks out the sides. Interestingly, customers did not encounter similar problems with the boxers, suggesting potential variations in fit and effectiveness across different styles.
Despite this drawback, Modibodi remains a compelling choice for individuals seeking stylish, versatile, and inclusive period underwear options that cater to a wide range of needs and preferences, as well as some of the best period panties for teens.
TomboyX
- Rating: 3.5/5.0
- Price Point: Single pairs are $20-25 and they offer packs
- Pros: Gender and size inclusive with 3XS-6XL plus a line of compression tops, tucking underwear and packing boxer briefs; cute pride designs
- Cons: Less gender-inclusive when it comes to actual period panties, as they all have very traditionally feminine cuts, even the boxers
TomboyX’s period underwear covers a wide size range, accommodating individuals from 3XS to 6XL. Single pairs typically range between $20 to $25, with options to purchase packs for added convenience and value.
TomboyX ensures quality and accessibility in their offerings, making them an attractive choice for many consumers seeking comfortable and inclusive period underwear solutions.
TomboyX stands out for its commitment to inclusivity, offering a range of gender-inclusive products beyond just period panties. From compression tops to tucking underwear and packing boxer briefs, they cater to diverse gender identities and expressions.
And their pride designs, ranging from subtle to flamboyant, add a touch of inclusivity and celebration of diversity to their lineup.
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Despite their efforts towards inclusivity, some users have noted a discrepancy in gender representation within TomboyX’s period panty collection. Even the boxers feature traditionally feminine cuts, which may not resonate with all customers. This lack of gender-neutral options limits the brand’s appeal to those seeking more diverse and inclusive designs in their period underwear.
More options, please! While TomboyX offers a commendable size range and inclusive products like compression tops and packing boxer briefs, there’s a clear need for more gender-neutral options within their period panty line.
Customers are calling for designs that cater to diverse gender identities and preferences, urging the brand to expand their offerings to better accommodate all individuals seeking comfortable and inclusive period underwear solutions.
Finding Your Perfect Period Underwear
So, if you’re wondering, “is period underwear worth it?” the answer is a resounding yes! With an array of styles, colors, and designs to choose from across various brands, there’s something out there to suit everyone’s preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for affordability, inclusivity, or innovative features like adaptive styles or swimwear, period underwear offers a convenient and comfortable alternative to traditional menstrual products.
But like your period, period underwear are incredibly personal. It’s good to shop around online or in-person if you can to get a feeling of what you want or need. Use this guide as a starting point as you explore different period underwear brands, and find your perfect fit!
Period underwear comes in so many options! Say goodbye to leaks, discomfort, and waste – period underwear is here to revolutionize your monthly cycle with style and confidence.
For more period-based insights, check out Exactly How to Start Cycle Syncing (& How It Changed My Life!) And if we missed your favorite period underwear brand, tell us the brand and why you love it in the comments!
