The 10 Best Period Underwear of 2024, Tested by PEOPLE

Anyone with a menstrual cycle deserves the peace of mind that they can go through their period with comfort, protection, and confidence. While tampons, pads, and diva cups all have their pros and cons, period underwear is the unsung hero of menstrual products.

To a bust a few of the common misconceptions about period underwear: It doesn’t feel anything like a diaper (the best period underwear is basically indistinguishable from regular underwear), and the right pair of period underwear for your flow should absorb all the blood you expel.

The More You Know

“The purpose of period underwear is not only to absorb the flow, but to wick it away from the vulva skin so that it doesn't cause odor, irritation, or the feeling like you're sitting in something wet…Period underwear comes in different absorbencies; some can hold quite a heavy period, the equivalent of a super tampon.” —Dr. Alyssa Dweck, New York-based gynecologist and menstrual expert

Comfortable, flexible, and absorbent — three words we’d use to describe the best pairs of period underwear, which we’ve rounded up for your shopping convenience. Each product we chose was put to the test in our PEOPLE Tested labs so that you can feel confident through every stage of your period.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Thinx For All Super Absorbency Brief at Amazon

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Most Comfortable:

Cora Period Underwear at Amazon $25

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Best Hipster:

Proof Leakproof Hipster Underwear at Shopproof.com

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Best for Light Flow:

SALE

Thinx Air Hiphugger Period Underwear at Amazon ~~$35~~ $18

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Best Shorts:

Thinx Period Pajama Sleep Shorts at Amazon

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Best for Working Out:

SALE

Thinx Cycle Shorts at Amazon ~~$30~~ $21

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Best Thong:

Knix Leakproof Thong at Knix

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Best Lingerie:

Dear Kate Ada Full Brief at Dearkates.com $46

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Best Size Range:

TomboyX First Line Leakproof Bikini at Amazon $20

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Best Seamless:

The Eco Woman Seamless EcoPanties at Theecowoman.com

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Best Overall

Thinx For All Super Absorbency Brief

PHOTO: Target

View on Amazon $17 at Target $14 at Walmart

Star Qualities

At $17, it boasts excellent value
Highly absorbent
Durable construction

Red Flags

Tight waistband

These cozy briefs are proof that period underwear can be comfortable and functional. Made from soft and absorbent cotton, these underwear have a relaxed fit that’s great for overnight wear. The Thinx For All Super Absorbency Brief is available in an impressive range of sizes, from XS up to 4X.

Thinx rates these panties to hold up to five tampons worth of liquid, and though our tester found that they actually hold closer to 4.5 teaspoons, we’re still impressed by how much they can absorb. Our tester also noted that the Thinx For All felt soft and cozy. It has a nice cotton-y feel and the gusset is kind of like a soft washcloth.

How They Held Up

After testing for two months, we were still just as impressed with these period undies. In real time, they provide excellent coverage and are highly absorbent (though, we don't think it’s quite equal to five tampons). We also didn’t experience any wear and tear, even after washing. While they remained comfortable throughout the extended testing period, we did find that the waistband is a little tight which might not feel as comfortable for long periods of time.

Cut: Mid-rise briefs | Absorbency: 5 teaspoons | Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane

People / Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

Pro Tip!

Cotton is Dr. Dweck’s favorite material for underwear because of its naturally-occurring absorbency and moisture-wicking properties

Most Comfortable

Cora Period Underwear

PHOTO: Target

$25 at Amazon $25 at Target $25 at Walmart

Star Qualities

Don’t leak
Durable construction
Good for extra protection

Red Flags

Not super absorbent

For those lighter-flow days (or as a backup when paired with other period products), this comfortable period underwear from Cora look as good as they feel. The lower-rise bikini cut allows you to move freely without constraint.

These underpants instantly absorbed the 3 teaspoons of liquid that we poured over the gusset in our testing. There was a small amount of transfer, but the gusset did remain dry through our entire testing process.

Our tester was impressed by the soft fabric and thick, comfy waistband. “From the feel to the absorbency — these are worth $25,” the tester said. Though they noted that they wouldn’t reach for this period underwear on heavier flow days without another form of protection, our tester says that they’d feel confident wearing a pair on lighter days.

How They Held Up

We tried these period undies for an additional six-month period. After long-term testing, we can confirm that this comfortable pair of period underwear works best for the last day of your period when your flow is light, or as an added layer of leak protection for pads, cups, or tampons. The underwear never felt super absorbent but we also didn’t experience any leakage and found that the overall construction held up nicely after washing.

Cut: Bikini | Absorbency: 5 teaspoons | Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane

People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

Best Hipster

Proof Leakproof Hipster Underwear

PHOTO: Proof

View on Shopproof.com

Star Qualities

Absorbs well and doesn’t leak
Soft and smooth fabric

Red Flags

The leg holes are a little loose

Editor's note: We tested the Proof Leakproof Hipster Underwear, but it's been discontinued. So, we've linked the very similar Proof Leakproof Mesh Hipster Underwear instead.

When you need your period underwear to have you covered (both literally and figuratively), the Proof leakproof hipster underwear is a solid choice. Unlike a lot of other options on the market, these underwear have absorbent protection that extends up the entire front and back of the panties, not just on the gusset.

The fabric feels very soft and technical; even though these are billed as being the highest absorbency, they actually feel lightweight and very wearable. Whether our high praise is enough to justify the price tag is ultimately up to you, but if you’re looking for a pretty darn absorbent pair of period underwear, we’d recommend giving the Proof Leakproof Hipster a try.

How They Held Up

After testing these undies for six months, we can confirm that they are leakproof and have excellent absorbency. However, we didn’t love the fit and found that the leg holes were a little too loose, which made us feel a little less confident on the absorbency front (though we were pleasantly surprised that it didn’t create an issue).

Cut: Hipster | Absorbency: 5 teaspoons | Outer Material: 75% nylon, 25% spandex | Gusset Material: 100% cotton

People / Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

Best for Light Flow

Thinx Air Hiphugger Period Underwear

PHOTO: Amazon

$18 at Amazon $35 at Thinx.com

Star Qualities

Lightweight and flexible material
No leakage

Red Flags

Not ideal for heavy flow days

Getting some light movement in while on your period can be a great way to relax and relieve cramping, but if you prefer to wear pads, they can sometimes rub on the skin and feel irritating. That’s why we love the Thinx Air Hiphugger’s lightweight, flexible material for our menstrual yoga flow (pun intended).

With a gusset that extends up the backside, you can worry less about leaks and focus more on moving your body however feels good to you.

The unique, mesh fabric is great for hot days or wearing for a workout. While these period underwear aren’t rated to absorb enough blood on their own on heavier days, we definitely recommend them for lighter flow or as a backup with another form of menstrual protection, such as a tampon or cup.

Cut: Hipster | Absorbency: 4 teaspoons | Outer Material: 78% polyamide, 22% elastane | Gusset Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane

People/Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

Best Shorts

Thinx Period Pajama Sleep Shorts

PHOTO: Thinx

View on Amazon $50 at Thinx.com

Star Qualities

Super absorbent
Comfortable pajama short design
Soft fabric

Red Flags

A bit pricey

Sleep easy knowing that Thinx Sleep Shorts have you covered throughout your flow. Soft, comfortable, and protective, we were impressed by these boxer-inspired underwear’s cozy material and thoughtful details like pockets and buttons. Designed to look like cute pajama shorts on the outside, the Thinx Sleep Shorts have built-in period underwear on the inside.

Our lab tests proved that these period panties can easily hold 4 teaspoons or four tampons worth of liquid without any leakage — less than their advertised absorbency of 8 teaspoons but still a considerable amount. The outer shorts are made from a super soft micro modal material, while the inner underwear is made from soft cotton.

How They Held Up

While testing these pajama shorts, we were continually impressed by their absorbency and found they were highly effective even on heavy flow days. The buttery soft fabric also keeps its integrity after multiple wears and washes and doesn’t stretch out. And, although we initially found they are a little too expensive, we came around to the price tag and even considered buying another pair.

Cut: Boxer short with built-in bikini | Absorbency: 4 teaspoons | Outer Material: 96% micro modal, 4% spandex | Gusset Material: 100% polyester

People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

Best for Working Out

Thinx Cycle Shorts

$21 at Amazon

Star Qualities

Comfortable waistband
They have pockets
Breathable construction

Red Flags

Light absorbency

These cycle shorts from the period experts at Thinx are a wonderful addition to your exercise routine when menstruating. A cozy high waistband hugs just above the belly button, and the mid-leg cut makes this protective layer look like just another pair of normal bike shorts. They hold just about two tampons worth of liquid, making them an ideal choice for days when you’re spotting or when paired with a tampon or cup.

Great as an extra layer under skirts and dresses or worn alone as athletic tights, the Thinx Cycle Shorts were thoughtfully made to be so cute and comfortable that you’d never know they were actually period underwear in disguise. The fabric on these cycling shorts was super soft to the touch and felt good on the skin. The waistband was tough to stretch, which is ideal for biker shorts, so they're not falling off or loosening during a workout.

Cut: Biker short | Absorbency: 2 teaspoons | Outer Material: 80% polyester, 20% elastane | Gusset Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane

People / Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida

Best Thong

Knix Leakproof Thong

PHOTO: Knix

View on Knix

Star Qualities

Comfortable seamless style
Holds one tampon’s worth of liquid

Red Flags

Have a tight fit at first (but loosen up over time)

Yup — period thongs are actually a thing, and these ones from Knix are just as comfortable as your favorite seamless pair of panties. This machine-washable thong has an ultra-thin and absorbent gusset that can absorb one tampon’s worth of liquid.

Because of its minimalist shape, thongs are less protective than fuller-cut period underwear — but, our tester was pleasantly surprised with how the Knix Leakproof Thong held up in lab tests. This thong absorbed water quickly, with no spillover and the outer gusset stayed dry. While we don’t recommend using this underwear on your heavier days by themselves, they make for a good backup to other menstrual products or for spotting or discharge.

How They Held Up

We were really impressed by this period thong. At first, it fit a little too tight but with regular wear it loosened up (and not in a way that would cause leakage). Since it is a thong style, it’s not the most absorbent period underwear on our list but it holds about one tampon’s worth which is still impressive for this underwear style. After testing the thong for six months, we were impressed by how well they held up and continued to absorb moisture without any leakage — they were good as new.

Cut: Thong | Absorbency: 1 teaspoon | Outer Material: 77% nylon, 23% lycra | Gusset Material: 86% cotton, 10% spandex, 4% carbon

People / Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida

Best Lingerie

Dear Kate Ada Full Brief

Dear Kate.

$46 at Dearkates.com $46 at Macy's

Star Qualities

Stylish lingerie design
Super soft material
Versatile absorbency

Red Flags

Wear down a little after regular wear

Save yourself the frustration of staining your favorite underwear on your period by swapping in cute underwear that’s actually meant for your period. The Dear Kate Ada Briefs have a waist-hugging high fit and delicate lace hem that looks more like expensive lingerie than a protective period product.

While these period underwear are rated to hold three tampons worth of blood, we think Dear Kate is being a tad too humble — our tester found that the underwear actually held about five tampons worth in our lab assessments. This extra absorbency doesn’t mean any compromise on softness.

This product is absorbent enough to be worn on lighter flow days by itself or as a stylish backup on heavier days. The gusset extends up the back of the underwear to provide protection against leaks, and the flattering cut makes this pair of panties worth the price.

How They Held Up

These stylish period undies continued to offer us protection during the six-month testing period. While they did look a little more worn after multiple washes, they still kept their soft texture and we were still impressed by the overall absorbency and leak-free wear.

Cut: High-waisted brief | Absorbency: 5 teaspoons | Outer Material: 76% nylon, 24% lycra | Gusset Material: 90% micro-polyester, 10% elastane

People / Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

Best Size Range

TomboyX First Line Leakproof Bikini

PHOTO: tomboyx

$20 at Amazon $20 at Nordstrom View on Tomboyx.com

Star Qualities

Thick, comfortable waistband
Inclusive size range

Red Flags

Not as absorbent as package claims

Period underwear should be accessible for anyone of any size — that’s why we love the First Line Leakproof Bikini from Tomboyx, which comes in sizes that start at 3XS and go up to 6X. Made from an OEKO-TEX® certified toxic-chemical-free material, these bikini-cut panties have a thick band that’s both cute and comfortable.

The cotton base feels nice to the touch and the gusset isn't too thick or stiff. These underwear are billed to hold up to 8 teaspoons of liquid, but we found that it’s realistically closer to 4.5 teaspoons, which is still pretty decent protection for lighter days. We’re impressed by the size range, quality, and price of this period underwear, so it’s hard for us to find much fault in them.

Cut: Bikini | Absorbency: 4.5 teaspoons | Outer Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex | Gusset Material: 90% polyester, 10% spandex

People / Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

Best Seamless

The Eco Woman Seamless EcoPanties

PHOTO: The Eco Woman

View on Theecowoman.com

Star Qualities

Can wear under fitted clothing
Extended gusset for more protection

Red Flags

Leg holes loosen with regular wear

Buttery soft fabric and zero VPL (visible panty lines) make the EcoPanties Seamless underwear a winner in our book. The gusset provides some of the best front coverage we tested and stayed dry through our testing, easily absorbing 4 teaspoons of liquid.

Seamless underwear isn’t only great under leggings and tights — it’s also great for exercising or lounging in. The Eco Women website doesn't list the materials used in their underwear, but it does indicate that to wash your EcoPanties after wear, you should soak them in cold water for 30 minutes beforehand or machine wash them.

How They Held Up

These period undies were absorbent enough to protect against leakage on day two of our period but also worked well as an extra layer of protection when wearing tampons. Throughout the six-month testing period, the fabric also kept its integrity and remained soft and comfortable, though the leg holes stretched out a tiny bit.

Cut: High-cut seamless | Absorbency: 4.5 teaspoons | Outer Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex | Gusset Material: 80% polyester, 20% nylon

People / Jhett Thompson
People / Leticia Almeida
People / Leticia Almeida

What to Know About Period Underwear

Absorbency

One of the most important things to consider when buying period underwear is the level of absorbency you need in a period product. While some period underwear can handle heavier flows, most are only designated for light and moderate days. Your considerations should also include any preferred backup protection products, like tampons and periods, which can be paired with period underwear to decrease the likelihood of leakage. The Proof Leakproof Hipster Underwear is one of a few pairs of underwear we tested that absorbed up to 5 teaspoons of liquid.

Cut

Just like normal underwear, period underwear comes in a variety of cuts and shapes (yes, even thongs! The Knix leakproof thong is a great one). The right one for you is totally up to your preference, from bikini to full briefs to shorts.

Material

While the right material for your underwear is definitely influenced by your personal preferences for feel and look, Dr. Dweck shares some advice: “As a gynecologist, my favorite material to touch the vulva is 100 percent cotton. That's because it's absorbent, it's moisture-wicking, and it's a natural fiber.”

The Tomboyx First Line Leakproof Bikini Bottom on a black table near a measuring cup — People / Leticia Almeida

Behind the Scenes

To find the best period underwear, our PEOPLE Tested team conducted extensive testing in our labs with real period product users as the testers. During this process, we conducted a stain test, smell test, and absorbency test to get an idea of the overall performance, durability, and quality. We also considered the value, fabric feel, fit, odor control, and leakage.

To get an accurate idea of performance, we conducted a smell, stain, and absorbency test. We first removed the underwear from the packaging and smelled it to see if it came with any sort of scent. Then we mixed together apple cider vinegar and food coloring for the absorbency tests.

After marking down the intended absorbency rating listed on the product’s packaging, we tested the actual absorbency by slowly pouring the dyed apple cider vinegar into the interior of the underwear, one tablespoon at a time. Once the liquid fully absorbed, we pressed dry filter paper on the interior gusset for 30 seconds, then noted how wet or dry the paper felt and appeared. We then washed the underwear using mild, unscented, dye-free detergent on an extra rinse cycle and checked for stains caused by the dye.

Fabric Feel: The overall comfort and fabric softness is another important thing to consider when shopping for period underwear. With this in mind, we considered the overall construction and how the fabric felt against our skin. We also made note of comfort levels when the gusset is wet and whether or not it’s noticeable when it’s time to swap the undies out for a new pair.
Value: Upon testing for stains, smells, and absorbency, plus considering the fit and fabric feel, we considered all of the attributes and determined whether or not the period underwear is fairly priced and has good value.
Fit: After wearing the underwear for multiple cycles, we considered the fit and how well it held up after many wears and washes.
Leakage: We also made note of the absorbance over time and considered how well the underwear aligned with its claims for each flow level and whether or not we experienced leakage.
Odor Control: Our initial smell test was simply to get an idea of what the underwear smells like out of the packaging. To up the ante, we considered the overall odor control by conducting smell tests after wearing and washing the period underwear.

Person stretching waistband of Thinx Air Hiphugger Period Underwear — People / Leticia Almeida

Frequently Asked Questions

Does period underwear really work?

Every kind of period underwear will perform differently, but a quality pair should keep you dry, comfortable, and protected. If you’re worried about leaking, make sure to choose an absorbency that aligns with your flow. You can also always add another layer of protection, like a pad, tampon, or cup.
Can period underwear be worn all day?

This is totally up to your flow level, but barring any kind of discomfort, the answer is yes! To keep your underwear lasting longer, if you have a heavier flow, it might be helpful to pair it with another form of period protection.
How do you wash period underwear?

Before tossing soiled period underwear in with the rest of your laundry, it's advised to thoroughly hand-wash them in cold water first and let them completely air-dry before machine-washing. You should also wash them on a delicate cycle (in cold water) like you would your regular underwear as period underwear is often constructed of several layers and should be delicately laundered to keep them in prime condition.

Why Trust PEOPLE?

Cai Cramer is a PEOPLE commerce writer who covers such areas as beauty, fashion, health, and lifestyle. To compile this review, she consulted our testers about various aspects of period underwear, such as absorbency, cut, and material. While researching period underwear, she spoke with Dr. Alyssa Dweck, a gynecologist based in New York.

Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer at PEOPLE and has covered health and beauty topics for a variety of publications and blogs, including Well+Good, The Sunday Edit, HUM Nutrition’s The Wellnest, Brit+Co, and more. To get a better idea of how the period underwear held up in the long-term, Jessie updated this article to include our PEOPLE Tested team’s insights after six months of wear.

Our Expert Panel

Dr. Alyssa Dweck is a gynecologist based in New York.

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don't stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we've awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

Want more product recommendations? Check out all of our People Tested content.

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