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Most women are left irritable and crampy once each month when their periods arrive and make a mess. That's where period underwear can come in handy. Period underwear feels and looks like regular underwear, with additional layers and special materials in the crotch area to collect menstrual blood. They are underpants you can use during your periods to replace disposable protection products such as tampons or pads — though some women prefer to use period underwear solely as a backup measure on heavier flow occasions.
You can wash, re-wear, rewash– they are a reusable alternative throughout the cycle. You must carefully choose them to ensure they are both comfortable and effective. It is with those objectives in mind that we have reviewed some of the ideal period underwear for women in 2024 so that you can be comfortable.
Our Picks of the Hottest Period Underwear for Women in 2024
Bambody Period Underwear — Best Overall
Bambody Absorbent Panty is another worth mentioning pair of period underwear that provides a degree of security equal to 2 x tampons. With Bambody's best-selling period protection underwear, you can say goodbye to painful pads and sanitary ware. These "pee proof" underwear are ideal for incontinence, heavy and light discharges, or abrupt leaks. This pair of period underwear provides comprehensive protection whether you're sleeping on your stomach or your back. None of your belongings will be stained by blood.
Pros
- Maximum protection
- Comfy
- Affordable
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- The seafoam green underwear is a little looser than the pink and blue pairs
INNERSY Period Underwear — Runner Up
INNERSY Women's Hipster Period Underwear is ideal for light periods and spotting, and it is machine washable. When used in conjunction with other menstruation products, it provides additional security on days when there is a lot of flow. If the pad, cup, or tampon leaks during the night, the menstruation panties will prevent you from staining your sheets.
With this underwear, there are two layers of lining, one on top and one on top of the other, which make it more protected against stains on the outside garments. For added protection, a thicker lining is used. You'll stay dry and fresh throughout the day and after a long night's sleep because of the extra thickness of the liner. In addition, you can use these as postpartum underwear.
Pros
- Higher lining for maximum protection
- Best for postpartum moms
- Reusable
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy flow days
OLIKEME Period Underwear — Honorable Mention
OLIKEME Menstrual Period Underwear is comfortable and flattering, so you can wear this period underwear with anything. All-day-long comfort and bind-proof leg openings are two of these cotton stretch underwear's benefits. Cotton has a tiny permeability that helps you stay dry. It is possible to use this underwear with flaring dresses, skirts, and high-waist jeans. You can use menstrual cups, period pantyliners, and incontinence pads with this period underwear to help prevent leaks.
A comfortable full back coverage style is appropriate for those who suffer from low back pain and are frequently seated at their desks due to their mid-rise and minimal tummy control. It comprises an easy-to-clean soft inner lining, a waterproof middle layer, and a superior breathable cotton outermost part for maximum protection.
Pros
- Variety of colors
- Best design
- Affordable
Cons
- Less protective than other pairs
Thinx Period Underwear — Also Consider
Thinx Modal Cotton Brief Period Underwear uses a novel cotton combination that is eco-friendly and comfy. With a loose but full-coverage style, these women's period underwear will keep you comfortable all day long. These underwear have the absorbency of five regular tampons.
To care for your underwear, wash them in cold water with no bleach or softener and then hang them to air dry. You must not iron them. Compared to pads and tampons, this improved cotton mix consumes less water in the production process. If you take care of them properly, this period of underwear can endure for an industry norm of 40 washes or around two years.
Pros
- Super quality cotton
- Sustainable
- Perfect fit
- No leakage risks
Cons
- Machine drying reduces their life
Buying Guide: Period Underwear for Women
Period underwear eliminates the need for last-minute tampon rushes to the corner store. You can use them if you're searching for an alternative to tampons that is less unpleasant than sanitary pads, more pleasant than a menstrual cup, and much less untidy. When buying period underwear, there are many factors to consider so that you buy one that offers maximum leakage protection and comfort. This buying guide will help you select the ideal period underwear.
What to Consider Before Buying Period Underwear?
There are several styles to choose from, and you should consider the comfort and style of your underwear before purchasing it.
Best fit
Buying period underwear isn't tricky if you have a plan and stick to it. It is essential to find a pair that fits comfortably and is stylish. Choosing a size that fits comfortably is crucial.
Absorption capacity
The main benefit of period underwear is the amount of absorption they provide. You may need maximum absorbency on the first day of your period and only need less protection on the last days.
Portability and lightweight
Another essential factor is portability. Sometimes, it's not feasible to carry many extra pads or tampons with you. This makes it necessary to use period underpants that are reliable.
Comfort level
Your period underwear should be comfortable and offer protection from spotting. The fabric can vary in absorbency, which can be important depending on your personal needs. While some menstrual underwear is designed to keep you dry, others have extra absorbency to prevent leaks while exercising or sleeping.
Material and style
You need to choose a suitable material. A good quality product is durable and absorbent. If you are worried about spotting, look for a material that will wick away excess fluid. A good quality brand can prevent spotting. It should have the proper fabric to protect your bedding. The ideal period underwear can protect you from spotting and other side effects.
While most types of period underwear have two sizes, you should consider your style and the type of fabric. Generally, period underwear is made of cotton, but some brands contain elastane and nylon. The material should be breathable to prevent leaks and stains. If your flow is heavier, choose heavier-duty underwear.
What Are the Different Materials Used to Make Period Underwear?
There are basically three materials used to make period underwear.
Cotton
Cotton is the most popular, and it's also essential to make sure the material is resistant to moisture.
Elastane and nylon
Elastane and Nylon are excellent choices. Even though they are breathable, period underwear can be pretty absorbent. When choosing a pair, you should ensure that the fabric is water-resistant.
What Are the Benefits of Using Period Underwear?
Reusable period underwear is an excellent option for many women. A good pair can last up to 5 years, saving you money on pads and tampons. Another advantage is that these products are washable and reusable, which is a great way to reduce waste. Most period underwear is made of stretchy fabric for extra leak protection, and some are even designed for specific activities such as sleep.
High absorbency
Menstrual underwear is an excellent choice for women because of its high absorbency. This type of underwear is made of three layers of fabric and can keep you dry and odor-free. Heavy-absorbent underwear can be worn overnight and can be washed as needed. The benefits of period underwear are numerous and should not be overlooked.
Easily washable
Another benefit is that period underwear can be machine-washed so that you can remove stains and wetness marks. This will help prevent odors and keep them from coming off. And since this underwear is less bulky than tampons, they are less likely to get stained. Plus, they won't have to be changed every few hours - a big plus if you're on the go! You can also wash these items more often.
They reduce waste
Using period underwear reduces waste. The materials are durable enough to be washed and reused for many years. They also have no adverse effects on health and the environment. They are reusable and eco-friendly, which means less money spent on period products. And as a bonus, you can wash and reuse them without wasting a single piece. That's another benefit. This type of underwear has been proven to reduce the amount of waste.
They bring comfort
Among the other benefits of period underwear, besides reducing your carbon footprint, they also make you feel comfortable during your period. In addition, period underwear is less bulky than pads, and you can easily pack them.
Eco-friendly
You can wash and reuse these products, which means less waste and less money spent on period products. It's also possible to buy your favorite styles from popular retailers. There are also several other reasons to switch to period underwear.
What Are Some Tips for Using Period Underwear?
Period underwear is a must-have for every woman, whether you're a teenager or an older woman. It doesn't stop the blood flow and is a comforting way to manage your menstrual cycle.
- Use a mild cleanser. Never use a hot water setting.
- Wear them on your first day of periods. This will give you a good idea of whether the underwear fits and does the job.
- Another tip for choosing the right underwear is to test them out on a couple of days of light flow.
- If you don't want to machine-wash your period underwear, you can also rinse them in the sink.
- Take them to the laundromat or wash them yourself as directed.
