By Lauren Harano and Iman Balagam
All products featured on Teen Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Solimo Women's Protective Underwear
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 out there so you can feel confident about your purchase. You'll find top-rated panties from brands like Saalt, Aerie, Modibodi, and more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Now that you have the deets, check out 14 of the best period underwear brands and the options they offer for different flows, bodies, colors, and budgets.
Available everywhere from Amazon to Nordstrom, Proof's hipster 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 not only have gusset lining in the middle that also 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.
Proof Teen Period & Leak Proof Super Heavy Absorbency Hipster Panties
Absorbency: Equivalent to five tampons.
Customer Review: “These are seriously great underwear, and they provide assurance against spotting without the inconvenience or mess of a pad,” wrote one happy customer. “Wish I'd tried them sooner!”
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
Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, tumble dry.
Color: Black, purple, teal, galaxy
Innersy Women's Hipster Period Underwear
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.
Customer Review: “Comfy and soft. Doesn't feel like a diaper at all. Wearing them makes me feel secure. I don't use them alone. I'll wear a tampon as well unless it's the end of my cycle and there's not much blood. Good for catching period leaks but I mainly use them for another reason. They are fantastic for catching leftover fluids from intimate times."
Pros: ✓ Offers a variety of colors ✓ Affordable
Con: X May not provide enough protection for your heaviest days
Care Instructions: Machine wash on hot, tumble dry.
Color: Black, blue, grey, brown, wine, white, green, stripes
Return Policy: Free returns on some sizes and colors
Saalt believes that reusable is the future, which is why the brand has developed everything from menstrual cups to period underwear. The mesh or lace inserts provide extra protection, no matter what style you choose. And the brand's Leakproof Comfort Boyshort may be our favorites due to the extended gusset, high absorbency (it holds four tampons’ worth of liquid, which is bonkers considering how thin the fabric feels), and super soft modal fabric made from renewable beech wood.
Absorbency: Equivalent to three to four regular tampons.
Customer Review: “These particular underwear are worthy of five stars,” wrote an Amazon reviewer. "They are leakproof for the majority of accidents, but even then they do an admirable job at keeping any liquid inside the waterproof lining and elastic leg openings until the person can reach a bathroom. There’s no rustling sound that comes from the lining, so no one will know you are wearing this type of panty.”
Pros: ✓ Reviewers say they’re very comfortable ✓ High-absorbency options
Con: X On the pricier side
Care Instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry.
Color: Black, grey, blush, brown, blue
Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
Looking for a wide range of period-proof options? Try Modibodi, which offers everything from underwear to activewear to swimwear in different materials and protection options, making the transition as seamless as can be. The brand's period underwear is a great option for any day of your period, day or night. It provides full coverage and absorbs as many as three tampons, making it a versatile and reliable choice. Additionally, the panties are made from breathable bamboo and go great under skirts and dresses.
Absorbency: Three to four tampons.
Customer Review: “I love this product. I ordered a light to moderate and the heavy pair to try out. They fit great and absorb well. No smell either. I spray an enzyme spray (or vinegar) on them and let them sit for a little bit just to be safe. The heavy pair has the protective band going the whole way up the back of the underwear, so there are no worries about leaking at night."
Pros: ✓ Plenty of cute patterns and colors to choose from ✓ Very highly rated by thousands of reviewers
Con: X Some reviewers say they’re a little too snug
Care Instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry.
Return Policy: Free returns on some sizes and colors
Knix Mixed Flow Period Kit
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!).
The brand offers sizes ranging from XS to XXXXL, all in a breathable fabric made of soft cotton and modal. “[Knix has] done a great job with wicking material, comfort, and also variety," Shepherd said.
Absorbency: Depending on the style, the liquid hold ranges from eight to twelve tampons.
Customer Review: One reviewer, who has several kinds of Knix period underwear (including one super absorbency pair and “a couple of the thongs”), said that all pairs are “really comfortable and make me feel protected and good. I even have them in my everyday rotation because they are just so comfortable to wear.”
Pros: ✓ Very comfortable ✓ Super leakproof options can hold up to 8 tampons' worth
Con: X Some reviewers claim the sizing is inconsistent
Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, air dry. Do not bleach.
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.
For an affordable-but-still-absorbent option, check out Neione, available on Amazon. 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.
Customer Review: “On the nights when I'm especially heavy, I make sure to have these panties on top to catch whatever may leak through while I'm sleeping. . .Overall, I've recommended these to anyone who is experiencing a menstrual cycle for the first time so that they're not worried about having issues. I'd also definitely recommend it for those who worry about overnight leakage and all the similar."
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
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.
Color: Black, nudes, macaron, patterned
Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
Thinx Sport Hiphugger 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.
Absorbency: Depends on the style you choose, but it ranges from one to five tampons' worth.
Customer Review: “Blown away by the quality of these. Perfect fit and SO COMFORTABLE! Stay dry tech totally works. Love the color. I never expected to feel sexy while bleeding, but these panties, with the lace, really make it challenging not to.”
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
Care Instructions: Hand wash or machine wash cold on a delicate cycle. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Air dry.
Fit: Hiphugger, boyshort, brief, bikini, sleep short, hi-waist
Color: Black, blue, red, grey, patterned
Return Policy: 45-day money-back guarantee
Demifill Teen Girls Period Underwear
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.
Customer Review: “These are a little thinner than some other brands, my daughter likes that because they feel exactly like ‘regular’ undergarments,” wrote one reviewer. “Plus, they work! She wears with pads for extra protection and peace of mind.”
Pros: ✓ Very comfortable ✓ Comes in cute colors and patterns
Con: X Because they are snug, it's best to order a size up
Care Instructions: Machine wash, air dry.
Color: Black, blue, grey, navy, pink, red, stripes, polka dots, checkerboard
Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
Hanes Period 3-Pack Brief Underwear
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.
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.
Customer Review: “These briefs fit as expected for the size ordered. Quality is great, material is stretchy. I have no regrets about this purchase. I have purchased these several times. They work, no leaks, and make life easier and more enjoyable.”
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
Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, tumble dry on low, or hang dry. Do not use fabric softener or bleach.
Return Policy: No returns. Unworn and unwashed products may be replaced if there is an issue with fit or style.
Aerie Real. Period. Boybrief Underwear
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.
Customer Review: “I bought two of these to try out and I am so glad I did,” wrote one satisfied reviewer. “I have PCOS and my periods are heavy and I did not leak once. Using pads or other feminine products, I tend to leak, but I did not with this underwear. Coming to buy more soon!”
Pros: ✓ Very affordable ✓ Comes in cute colors and patterns
Con: X Some reviewers say they run big
Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, tumble dry.
Color: Black, grey, blue, floral, stripes
Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
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.
Customer Review: “These are great quality,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “The material is soft with some stretch. They hit at a nice spot on the waist, just below the belly button. The waistband is wide and does not dig into the skin."
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
Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, air dry.
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
Victoria’s Secret Smooth Period Bikini Panty
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.
Customer Review: “These are the most comfortable period panties I have ever worn,” one reviewer said. “They keep you dry and with no smell like some pads. They are easy to clean, too.”
Pros: ✓ Affordable ✓ Come in a variety of fun colors, patterns, and cuts
Con: X Some reviewers say the padding feels too thick
Care Instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry.
Color: Black, green, maroon, hearts
Return Policy: Free returns if new and unused
Nalwort Womens Menstrual Period Panties
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.
Customer Review: “These are very nice,” shared one customer. “They protect and I can wear them for hours with no slip-ups. Very comfortable. The stretch is amazing. I have also gone to bed with them and they feel great. The softness is wonderful. I will be buying more. Overall, great panties.”
Pros: ✓ Inclusive size range ✓ Comes in cute colors
Con: X Some reviewers say they run small
Care Instructions: Machine wash on cold, air dry.
Materials: Natural cotton, spandex, polyester
Color: Black, blue, green, grey, pink, orange, navy, red
Return Policy: Free returns if defective, wrong size, or wrong item
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.
Customer Review: “True to size, and they feel very comfy,” shared one reviewer. “I didn't have any issues with my flow leaking, and I used them on various days of the cycle. I truly wish I would have tried them sooner!”
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
Care Instructions: Hand wash only, air dry.
Return Policy: Free returns on some sizes
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