9 Best Period Underwear to Keep You Comfortable All Day
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
If you’re looking to make your monthly flow more comfortable, you might want to consider investing in some of the best period underwear.
Period undies are designed to offer peace of mind, whether you’re dealing with a light, moderate, or consistently heavy flow like me. For those of us who have endometriosis (myself included), polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), irregular cycles, or other medical conditions that affect menstruation, those heavy days demand seriously reliable protection. These products can also save you money on disposable items like pads, panty liners, and tampons, help reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome, and can be used with other sustainable options like menstrual cups or discs.
To help you find the right fit, I gathered honest feedback from over 30 women with diverse cycle experiences on what truly works (and what’s a total waste of money). I also consulted menstrual health experts for their professional recommendations and insights. The overall winner? Knix’s Super Leakproof No-Show Boyshort, for its ability to be comfy and lightweight while offering “phenomenal” fluid protection that will keep even a heavy flow contained overnight.
Luckily there are a flood of options out there (pun intended), so whether your perfect pair is disposable, designed for postpartum, or more affordable, there are picks for you too.
The best period underwear, at a glance
Featured in this article
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Best Overall: Knix Super Leakproof No-Show Boyshort
- What we love: Buttery-soft material; leakproof gusset; no visible panty lines; available in Light and Heavy absorbencies; comes in a variety of colors
- Worth noting: Some reviewers say they slip down a bit
Knix was the most popular period underwear option (and period swimwear option) among our testers by far. Several of the women I spoke to said that these are the only period underwear they buy, and many mentioned that they’ve gradually replaced all of their regular underwear with Knix.
The brand’s boy shorts earned the top spot because they’re comfortable, reliable, and versatile enough to wear for light days, backup protection, or everyday wear. They have a “buttery-soft” feel and a low profile that won’t show up under clothes.
“These have been great at nighttime,” says Elle Serafina, hormone health coach, cycle-syncing expert, and author of the upcoming book Cycle Magic. “The material feels so light, stretchy, and comfortable against your skin, and the absorbent sections are also so light and thin, and somehow magically absorb quite a lot of fluid really well.”
If you prefer high-waisted styles, Knix has high-rise versions available, including the Super Leakproof No-Show High Rise and Super Leakproof Dream Short, which Glamour reader Shannon D. says work great for sleep and have “phenomenal” leak protection. “It has ultra-absorbency and really keeps you protected overnight,” she tells us. “The boy-short fit also keeps things secure; I am someone with a heavy flow, and I trust the Dream Short.”
Knix are also great for traveling. Social media marketing expert Heather Rameau (who owns six pairs of Knix) says she left a pair of used Knix in her laundry bag for several days during a recent trip. “They did not leak into the rest of my laundry,” she says. “They cleaned right up and looked good as new.”
Best for Heavy Flow: Modibodi Maxi Absorbency Classic Bikini
- What we love: Holds up to 50 ml of fluid; has a soft, comfortable fit; available in sizes 3XS to 6XL; great for overnight wear
- Worth noting: Visible panty line
These are my go-to period underwear for heavy-flow days or overnight wear—and many testers agreed.
The brand is designed with a patented three-layer leak-proof technology that can hold up to 50 ml of fluid (the equivalent of 10 tampons). They’re made with a soft, comfortable material (merino wool) that’s quick drying, breathable, and naturally controls odor for extra peace of mind. They’re also super durable, easy to care for, and can be washed and worn over and over again.
“I’ve been testing period underwear for about three years now, and my Modibodi pairs have lasted the longest—going strong after 18-plus months of regular use,” says influencer and digital storyteller Jasmine Charbonier. “The elastic’s still tight, no weird smells, and the absorbent layer works just as well as day one.”
Charbonier also says Modibodi’s gussets are longer and wider than most brands, offering more protection: “I can sleep through the night without anxiety (and I’m a heavy bleeder).”
Freelance journalist Lola Méndez also vouches for their durability, noting that even with heavy use, her pairs “have always lasted at least a year.” Adding: “I have a fibroid, and these eco-friendly and better-for-you period products have been a game changer for my overall menstrual health. I’ve also saved money, as while the upfront cost may be more expensive, I’m no longer buying period products monthly as everything I use is reusable.”
Best for Postpartum: Always ZZZ Overnight Disposable Underwear
- What we love: Designed to feel like regular underwear; super absorbent; helps eliminate nighttime leaks; comfortable fit; provides all-around coverage
- Worth noting: Single-use; can be noisy when you first put them on; not available in unscented option; might be too warm for some people
We chose this pair as the best postpartum pick, thanks to its super-absorbent design and comfy fit. They also come recommended by Martina Ambardjieva, MD, a urologist and PhD graduate.
“In the postpartum period, women face a combination of bleeding and possible mild urinary incontinence,” says Dr. Ambardjieva. “In the early weeks after birth, some patients use Always for comfort, ease of use, and soft support. Disposable options can be especially practical during the immediate recovery phase.”
Okay, so you’re not wrong: These disposable period panties are, as one Amazon reviewer puts it, giving off major “diaper vibes,” but postpartum is a time when comfort and absorbency come first. Plus, the rest of her review is overwhelmingly positive: “I basically live in these now during my periods,” she writes. These overnight disposables are made from a soft, stretchy material that’s designed to fit and feel like regular underwear. They might be a little noisy when you first put them on, but you shouldn’t notice it after a few minutes. They’re also ideal for women with PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, and heavy or irregular periods.”
It’s worth noting that these are scented (Always has yet to release an unscented version), so if you’re sensitive to fragrance, they may not be the best fit for you.
Best for Teens: Aerie Real. Period. High Rise Boybrief Underwear
- What we love: Super-comfortable fit; provides full coverage; great for daytime or overnight wear; ideal for light leaks
- Worth noting: Only available in high-rise; often excluded from Aerie’s promotions and discounts
Dr. Ambardjieva recommends these for teens because they “feel like regular underwear and are lightweight, low-profile, and easy to change.”
They’re made from a soft, breathable cotton material that’s leakproof and designed to keep you comfortable all day long. The moisture-wicking gusset holds up to two tampons’ worth of fluid. And if odor is on your mind (totally normal!), the underwear uses odor-reducing and antibacterial properties to help keep things feeling fresh and hygienic.
These features align well with Dr. Ambardjieva’s general advice for this age group: “For adolescent users, the most important factors are comfort, discretion, and ease of use,” she says. “A soft cotton or cotton-blend material with minimal seams tends to work best for sensitive skin and comfort under clothing.”
Best for Plus Size: Ruby Love High-Waist Period Underwear
- What we love: Offers full coverage; has a three-layer cotton gusset; great for daytime or overnight wear
- Worth noting: For a snugger fit, size down; availability of largest sizes may vary by specific style/color
Ruby Love’s inclusive sizing is top-notch: the brand offers options up to 8XL on its website, and it has several styles designed with additional coverage and support
These period panties have a three-layer cotton gusset to hold up to three tampons’ worth of fluid. The Dri-Tech Mesh helps stop leaks and provides max coverage while the built-in proprietary Super Absorbent Layer wicks away moisture to keep you dry and comfortable.
Crystal Etienne, the founder and CEO of Ruby Love, also recommends this style for postpartum comfort and support. “Its high-rise design offers full coverage and a secure fit, while the built-in absorbent gusset provides reliable leak protection, making it suitable for postpartum needs,” she says.
Best Organic: Aisle Essential Period Hipster
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- What we love: Ultra-soft and breathable material; made from Tencel lyocell and organic cotton; ideal for sensitive skin; available in multiple sizes
- Worth noting: Pricier than other options
A handful of the women we spoke to said Aisle (formerly Lunapads) period underwear is their go-to. (The brand has a long history in sustainable menstrual care, originally gaining popularity for its reusable pads before expanding into this category.)
“Aisle makes the most comfortable cotton options I’ve tried,” says Charbonier. “The material is thick enough to feel secure but not suffocating, and, unlike some cotton options, these don’t lose their shape after washing.”
This hipster style is made from a blend of Tencel lyocell and organic cotton, which is ultra-soft, breathable, and absorbent. (Tencel lyocell is a biodegradable fiber made from sustainably sourced wood pulp; it’s supposed to be 50% more absorbent than cotton.) The no-chafe seams are designed to help eliminate irritation, and the extended gusset provides additional coverage and protection. This makes them a great option for low-impact workouts or yoga and Pilates classes.
Dr. Ambardjieva points out that Aisle tends “to be gentler on the skin” and may “reduce the risk of irritation, especially for those with recurrent infections or vulvar sensitivity.”
Best Cotton: Saalt Leakproof Cotton Brief
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- What we love: Made from soft and biodegradable natural cotton fiber; super thin; runs true to size; no visible panty line
- Worth noting: May not hold up as well on heavier days
While Saalt first gained popularity for its reusable menstrual cups, the company has expanded to include period underwear too. And tons of our readers swear by them. “I’ve had them for more than a year and they still look brand new,” says fashion designer Ira Lysa.
Another Glamour tester echoed her rave review: “I’m a mom of three and after three vaginal births, I have a deep aversion to tampons, therefore I went on a period underwear quest. Saalt is the best; [they’re] so comfy and absorbent, [they have the] longest wear time, and they hold up very well. It doesn’t feel like you’re wearing period underwear.”
Made from soft and biodegradable natural cotton fiber, Saalt’s briefs feel just like your regular underwear (the company says they’re the “thinnest” leakproof underwear you’ll ever wear, making them a great everyday option, whether you’re lounging at home or running errands).
They hold up to three tampons’ worth of liquid and offer full coverage, so you don’t have to worry about leaks. If you have a heavier flow, Saalt also sells Heavy and Super Heavy absorbency cotton underwear.
Best on Amazon: Bambody Absorbent Brief
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- What we love: Provide full coverage without feeling like “granny panties”; highly absorbent gusset; stretchy waistband; great for tweens, teens, and adults
- Worth noting: Hang to dry (do not put in dryer)
If you’re trying period underwear for the first time and don’t want to spend a fortune, the Bambody Absorbent Brief is a good lower-cost option to consider. You can also save more by purchasing the underwear in packs of three or five.
“They’re not as fancy as the premium brands, but for basic protection, they do the job,” says Charbonier. “I use these as my backup pairs or for lighter days.”
They’re made from breathable bamboo material with a three-layer absorbent gusset that can hold up to four tampons’ worth of liquid—enough for reliable backup or lighter days, and potentially sufficient for moderate-flow days. And, as far as leaks go, you can wear them for about eight hours without worry, depending on your flow.
They’re not as bulky as some period underwear, so you can feel confident wearing them under leggings or other fitted clothing.
Best Disposable: Rael Disposable Period Underwear
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- What we love: Made with a 100% certified organic cotton top sheet; super-absorbent core keeps you feeling dry; offer full coverage
- Worth noting: Not as environmentally friendly as reusable options; not discreet; bulky
Disposable period undies aren’t exactly sexy, but they are convenient.
“I especially love these when I’m on vacation so that I don’t have to think about wringing out the blood, hanging it to dry, and then packing it back in my suitcase—these are like a vacation for the period-underwear girlies,” says Michelle Agudelo, certified fertility awareness educator and menstrual health practitioner at Haus of Flow.
Each pair is made with a 100% certified organic cotton top sheet that’s soft and gentle on the skin and a super-absorbent core that locks in liquid to keep you feeling dry and comfortable all day or night. They’re ideal for women with a heavier flow or overnight use, as they hold as much as four regular pads.
Frequently asked questions
How we chose the best period underwear
To select the best period underwear for this guide, we prioritized real-world testing, consulted with experts, and considered a wide range of needs, preferences, specific challenges (such as heavy flow, overnight use, and postpartum bleeding), and product safety features.
We gathered detailed, honest feedback from a large and diverse group of over 30 women with varying flows, conditions like endometriosis and PCOS, and sensitivities. We also spoke to experts in the menstrual health space, including urologists, fertility awareness educators, brand founders, and textile specialists, to better understand which features and fabrics really make a difference in performance, comfort, and overall safety.
Each piece of feedback and every expert suggestion guided our selection process. We looked at key factors such as:
- Absorbency and leak protection: We examined how well different underwear absorbed various flow levels (light to very heavy), their ability to prevent leaks during a range of activities (from daily wear and exercise to overnight sleep), and the typical number of hours they could be worn confidently.
- Comfort: We considered the feel of the materials (softness, breathability, any irritation), the fit (did it stay in place, was it prone to bunching or digging?), and overall comfort during extended periods of wear.
- Material quality and durability: We noted comments on whether products retained their shape, elasticity, and absorbent properties and paid attention to fabric types, including organic and skin-friendly options.
- Discreetness and design: We took into account how the underwear fit and looked under clothing, noting any issues with bulkiness or visible panty lines, and the availability of different rises and styles.
- Brand transparency and trust: We favored brands that were open about their materials, sourcing, and manufacturing practices.
How does period underwear work?
Most period underwear looks and feels like regular underwear, but with an added gusset, or lining, that’s designed to absorb blood and other fluids. The top layer draws moisture away from the skin, the middle layer absorbs and traps fluid, and the bottom layer prevents leaks.
“Just like each woman, period underwear types are unique and serve different purposes,” says ob-gyn and feminine health adviser Ruth Arumala, DO. Different brands use various patented technologies to ensure optimal absorption, and every company in this roundup is backed by real women who swear by the products.
How do you wash period underwear?
You should always follow the instructions on the garment care label. But generally, you can rinse or hand-wash period underwear in cold water until the water runs clear, then machine-wash on a cold, gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
It’s best to hang them to dry. You might be able to tumble-dry on very low heat (depending on what the instructions say), but air-drying is the best way to prolong their lifespan.
Where can you buy period underwear?
You can buy period underwear at most major retailers, including drugstores, department stores, and online retailers. If you’re shopping online, shopping directly from the brand’s website is your best bet for both authenticity and seeing the widest selection of styles and sizes.
While Amazon is convenient, you’ll need to be extra cautious of counterfeit products and knock-offs, especially when purchasing from third-party sellers. Always try to buy from the official brand storefront or a clearly authorized seller. If you’re ever in doubt, buy directly from the brand.
Meet the experts
- Crystal Etienne, founder and CEO of Ruby Love
- Elle Serafina, hormone health coach, cycle syncing expert, and author of the upcoming book Cycle Magic
- Michelle Agudelo, certified fertility awareness educator and menstrual health practitioner at Haus of Flow
- Martina Ambardjieva, MD, urologist and PhD graduate with a special focus on female pelvic health and continence care
- Ruth Arumala, DO, ob-gyn, and feminine health adviser
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