12 Best Period Underwear Picks That’ll Seriously Change Your Life

Key Specs

• Material: Nylon, spandex, seaweed fiber, modal, polyester, Fresh Fix Technology, polyurethane film
• Absorbency: 8 teaspoons or up to 8 tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

From mixed-flow bundles to leak-free lace (!) undies, there's no doubt that Knix has the reusables market down to a science — and, judging by their super fun prints, art as well. Trailblazers on both form and function, you’re sure to find something that works for you. After all, their well laid-out site, thoughtfully organized by absorbency needs and with a handy legend on the sidebar, practically assures it.

It can be difficult to find picks that deliver full protection on top of all the classic details of a high-quality pair — like lay-flat seams or varying coverage options — but Knix manages to do so. All this at a reasonable price and with a decent size range, too (XS-4XL)!

We join the upwards of 1,400 fans of their Super Leakproof High Rise (so sleek!). Plus, their Super Leakproof Thong has one of the highest absorbency rates we’ve seen on the market for a thong: It can absorb up to six tampons’ worth.

More: 15+ Genius Period Products You Absolutely Need to Know About

Key Specs

• Material: Bamboo, spandex, polyurethane
• Absorbency: 30 milliliters or up to 2 tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

Those still on the fence about Bambody period panties can benefit from reading their 10,000-plus 5-star ratings, all which praise the fact that these are basically a godsend.

“Sometimes I bleed too much, I am literally surprised I’m still alive,” says one colorful review, “and I felt zero dampness [with this] holy grail of period panties.”

Budget-friendly and available in practical 3-packs as well, they're made of natural bamboo with spandex for a smooth, extra-comfy fit. The only downside is that they're said to run small, which thankfully their size range, which goes up to 6XL, seems to accommodate easily.

Several customers with heavier flow also call out how comfortable and absorbent these are, how solid and roll-proof the waistband is, and how the panties stay put and don't shift under clothes.

Key Specs

• Material: Nylon, spandex, cotton, polyester, acrylate
• Absorbency: 8 teaspoons or 4 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

Offering total protection from leaks — their unique leakproof core goes all the way from the front waistband to the back waistband, and not just at the crotch — Proof's The Bikini is a complete game changer, granted with the price tag to match.

However, it must be said that this has one of the highest absorbencies we've seen on a bikini-cut bottom, which means you're absolutely not married to a high-waisted version by any means, even on your heaviest day. Fans of the low-rise jean, you've met your match!

We love that it comes in four classic color ways (Black, Sand, Navy, and Wine), and our only gripe is that it could probably do more in the size department (XS-XL). The high-cut leg is much-appreciated for those of us who can't deal with fuller, more constrictive coverage (guilty!), and its fabric molds to your curves after the first wear ... and stays that way, too, which is always a plus.

Fans of The Bikini say it’s “shocking” how much these “magical” panties can absorb, and that its fabric, though stretchy, is also silent when worn and air-dries quickly. “I feel completely liberated!” says another rave review.

Key Specs

• Material: Polyamide, elastane, cotton, polyester
• Absorbency: 5.5 teaspoons or 3 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

As one of the most popular brands of period undies available, much has been rhapsodized since their best-selling Super Hiphuggers launched in 2019. (“I feel confident and secure wearing the Thinx panties,” says our tester Latifah Miles.)

Many have come close in terms of protection since then, but in terms of sport undies, Thinx remains ahead of the pack. Sexy and practical for moderate days — it can take up to 3 tampons' worth — we appreciate how this "excellent" pick is pretty invisible under leggings, while still offering comfy, ample coverage. The athletic, dolphin-style leg also gives more flexibility around the hip and thigh area, making it perfect for workouts and active days.

It comes in four colors — a basic Beige and Black, and a fun Dusk (dusty rose) and Spicy (bright red) — so you definitely have some options. Sizes are an impressive XXS-4X too, and fans of this particular cut say they love how "this style [allows] the skin to breathe while offering protection," which is a handy benefit during hot or sweaty gym sessions.

Key Specs

• Material: Bamboo viscose, spandex, merino wool, polyester, polyamide
• Absorbency: 10 teaspoons or 10 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

Capable of absorbing a formidable 10 tampons of fluid while still managing to look like your everyday cute bikini, the Modibodi Sensual Hi-Waist is a no-brainer for heavy flow days. This 4.9-star pair has a chic higher-cut waist and leg, plus an elegant — and non-itchy! — lace trim to style things up.

They’ve tested the patent-pending Maxi-24hrs Technology of these Aussie-made panties to absorb 50 milliliters of fluid a day (the average menstruator typically loses 30-50 milliliters of blood over 5 days), so you can literally rest assured knowing your sheets are safe. They currently come in four colors and range from sizes XS-6XL. Fans praise their “really fantastic” quality, saying that their “periods have never felt so easy” with these “life-changing” panties.

Aesthetics-wise, they're also the sexiest at this absorbency I've come across — they look so good, I immediately ordered three for myself. As someone who uses around three super absorbency tampons on my heaviest days, this got me particularly thrilled: I never thought I would be excited about my next heavy cycle, but here we are.

Key Specs

• Material: Polyamide, elastane, cotton, polyester, polyurethane
• Absorbency: 14 milliliters or 2 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

Victoria’s Secret’s foray into period undies seems to be going over well with users, who say that between their competitive pricing, comfort, and leakproof quality, their portfolio is “pretty impressive.”

The Body by Victoria Ombré Lace Period Bikini Panty is made for days with light to moderate flow — aka those two-tampon days — but it’s the details, unsurprisingly, that give them a leg up over the competition. Their Lace collection has two colors (including this very on-trend lavender), and their Smooth collection has seven, with both collections’ sizing ranging from XS-XL.

Smooth, stretchy, and with dainty little touches like a center bow and lace trim, it’s clear that VS hasn’t lost its taste for charming feminine accouterments. Customers say these feel “secure” and “pretty,” and are effective against leakage ... so much so that one even considered them “great for running.” For those who want their period delicates to definitely have a bit of something extra, these might be just up your alley.

Key Specs

• Material: Recycled nylon, spandex, merino wool, polyester, polyamide
• Absorbency: 15 milliliters or 2-3 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

Directions for this VPL-proof design from Modibodi instruct you to wash and wear this seamless bikini at least twice to get its true fit. That being said, the fact that it offers seamless, i.e. skin-thin, protection from up to three tampons' worth of fluid is kind of jaw-dropping (we're in the future, alright!).

This lightwearing option is a go-to for warmer days — and yes, tighter clothing — where its comfortable fit definitely comes in clutch. Being as it's meant to be invisible, it also comes in four skin tone-hued colors, as well as Black, Sunset Orange, and Boho Love, a unique paisley print. At XS-2XL, the size range is forgiving on many body types.

A reviewer who wore this after going through a miscarriage says these were a game changer, noting they made her feel comfortable and made her forget she was on her period. "No leakage, no discomfort like with pads, no need to constantly adjust, [and] nothing sticks to legs or hair."

Key Specs

• Material: OEKO-TEX-certified cotton, spandex
• Absorbency: 8 teaspoons or up to 2 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

As far as period underwear goes, you can't get any more inclusive than the size range of TomboyX's First Line Leakproof Hipster: This product offers a super impressive size range of 12 options, from 3XS-6XL. The queer-founded brand is also proudly B corp-certified (because sustainability is the only way), and has gender-affirming boxers and boxer briefs in their portfolio, too.

We're particularly fond of the Hipster's signature smooth waistband that doesn't roll up or down, as well as the non-chafing flatlock seams that conform to your curves (model shown is in a 2XL).

Another upside to shopping at TomboyX? You would be supporting a team comprised of 30% LGBTQ+ and 35% BIPOC folks, and one that is also 77% female-led.

Key Specs

• Material: Post-consumer recycled bottles
• Absorbency: 3 regular tampons or 2 pads
• Machine-Washable: Yes

These Paris-designed period undies are hands-down the chicest on our list — not to mention one of the softest and most innovative. Made from a silky soft, recycled polyblend (each piece is made from three post-consumer recycled bottles) — as well as being FDA-registered and compliant — it's no surprise that Saalt is another certified B corp climbing up the ranks of groundbreaking alternative feminine care.

The Leak Proof Mesh Hipster comes in five classic color ways — Volcanic Black, Quartz Pink, and three other nudes — and in sizes XS-2XL.

Apart from this amazingly understated, yet sexy pair — the subtle graphic mesh detail is as breathable as it is stylish — the company also has a thing or two to say about giving back. They donate 2% of their revenue to provide period care products to regions that need them the most. They were also awarded Philanthropy Champion at the 2021 Beacon Awards for their social impact significance.

Users are in love with the style and substance of the “beautiful and flattering” Mesh Hipster, with one saying these “feel so fancy.” Another says that she finds herself almost looking forward to her period “so [she] can wear these beauties again.”

Key Specs

• Material: Polyamide, elastane, polyester, cotton
• Absorbency: From 3-5 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

Sold as a pack of three, Thinx's Postpartum Set includes one each of their best-selling Super Hiphugger, Hiphugger, and Super Hi-Waist period panties. Absorbency-wise, the Hiphugger can hold up to three tampons' worth of fluid, while both the Super Hiphugger and Super Hi-Waist can take up to 5 tampons' worth.

Touted as a “lifesaver” by many, the draw is in the range of options offered in this practical bundle. All the panties included have comfy and gentle, yet supportive waistbands that fit changing shapes — and a gusset that can take the heaviest of birth flows.

"I wore them before labor at the hospital, and when my water broke at 4 a.m., THEY HELD IT ALL," says one impressed user. Another satisfied mama says these are "exceptional in every way," and note that they're great even beyond the postpartum period.

Key Specs

• Material: Dri-tech mesh, cotton, nylon, spandex
• Absorbency: 2.5 regular tampons
• Machine-Washable: Yes

Ruby Love's teen period underwear collection is chock full of fun plains and prints, discounted bundles, and even a First Period Kit, to boot. Meant to be worn alone or with an added tampon, pad, or cup if needed, each pair of Hipster panties can absorb up to two-and-a-half tampons' worth of fluid, and is also machine-washable.

Sizes go from a Youth XXS (waist of 21-22 inches) to a Youth Large (waist of 28-29 inches), and you can choose from over 30 vibrant colors and patterns, depending on your teen's style.

We love the positive approach that Ruby Love takes. The brand's products empower young girls and menstruators by making period care as positive as possible, as well as their cycles a stress- and worry-free experience.