17 best period pants that are comfy, stylish and sustainable
The best period pants deserve all the hype they get. Stat. While period underwear was once shunned for being smelly, ugly, nappy-like and prone to leakages, according to Ruby Raut, CEO and co-founder of WUKA, now, “the reality is actually quite the opposite". And having spent the past four (!) years testing the most advanced period panties on the market, I'd whole-heartedly agree.
I’m not alone. “We’ve found that many love period underwear – simply because they can put it on in the morning like regular underwear and go about their day without having to worry about leaks, Toxic Shock Syndrome, smells, or discomfort,” Ruby continued. Sold? You bet. Here’s my carefully-curated buying guide to the best period underwear for your time of the month, covering every size range and absorbency level. Regular tampons, be gone.
SKIP TO: Our full product reviews | What are period pants? | Do period pants really work? | How often to change your period pants | Do you wash period pants?
Meet the testers:
- Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR's Senior European Commerce Editor
- Lucy Smith, GLAMOUR's ex-Commerce Writer
Meet the expert:
- Ruby Raut, CEO and co-founder of WUKA
The best period pants of 2023, at a glance:
- Best Overall: Classic Bikini, £26, Flux Undies
- Best For Sleeping: Classic Waist Bikini, £22, Modibodi
- Best For Heavy Flow: WUKA Ultimate™ High Waist Super Heavy Super Flow, £25.99, WUKA
- Best For Light Flow: WUKA Period Pants Light Flow, £23.99, Wuka
How we tested the best period pants:
Our testers, Sophie Cockett and Lucy Smith, trialled each pair of the period pants featured below over a number of months at various points in our cycles. Some pairs have been tested for over a year. We worked out in them, went to actual work in them, and lounged in them. We scored each pair based on functionality and period protection: factors like comfort, absorbency, how well they washed, whether they keep that clean feeling and how they felt under normal clothes.
An expert weighs in on the many benefits of flexibility around work when you're menstruating.
What are period pants?
“Period pants are just like your day to day underwear but with the added benefit of them being able to absorb your period blood, so you can be free to get on with your day,” Ruby said. They have an absorbent, moisture-wicking and odour-eliminating gusset, and are available in a plethora of styles to suit your flow. You can bleed freely in them for up to 12 hours, whether you're going to work, to the gym or even for a swim.
Do period pants actually work?
Yes. The best period pants do exactly as they promise. Firstly, leak-proof pants are a sustainable choice. “We’re in the midst of an environmental emergency when it comes to the impact of single-use plastic,” Ruby said. “In fact, around 91% of the 380 million metric tons of plastic that is produced globally every year isn’t recycled.”
Single-use menstrual products are a huge contributor to this plastic pollution, with one pack of sanitary pads containing the equivalent of five plastic bags, and the average woman using over 11,000 disposable products in her reproductive lifetime (which each take over 1,000 years to decompose).
“The environmental saving of switching to a more sustainable period product like reusable pants or pads is vast. Each of us have the power to divert 9,600 plastic-filled pads from landfill or oceans in our lifetime by switching to reusable alternatives,” said Ruby.
Period pants are also comfortable and convenient. You can wear them all day without worrying about changing a tampon, or you can wear them to give you extra protection alongside a pad or menstrual cup on heavy flow days. You can also wear them to protect against incontinence or for peace-of-mind postpartum.
They don't smell, since their super-absorbent and sweat-wicking fabric works to avoid leaks, avoid any nappy-like scenarios and keep you fresh and dry. Most period pants – including Modibodi period pants – are actually made with a patented design that neutralises bad odours and bacteria.
Finally, switching to period pants also saves money. “Whilst they do require a bigger initial investment, the average woman will spend around £120 on disposable period pads in just two years, but with reusable period pants, the cost is no more than £75,” Ruby added.
Lifting the lid on the common problem.
How long can you wear period pants for?
“This depends on how heavy your flow is,” Ruby said. “You can wear our pants for up to 12 hours but we always say, you know your flow best.” Take WUKA's High-Waisted Stretch Seamless Heavy Flow pants, for example. They are designed to hold three tampons' worth of blood, so consider how long it takes you to get through three tampons and go from there. Personally? I have a medium flow, and manage around eight hours in one pair of period pants before I start feeling uncomfortable.
How do you wash period pants?
“Caring for your period pants isn’t much different to looking after any other underwear – simply rinse in the sink or shower, pop in the washing machine at 30 degrees with your usual laundry detergent and air dry,” Ruby said. “Try to avoid using fabric softener and tumble drying as, over time, this can impact the product’s absorbency.”
Elsewhere, shop the best period pants for teens, period swimwear and the best bras to accompany them. For more from GLAMOUR's Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett, follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx.
FAQs completed, here are the best period pants of 2023 to add to your checkout.
1. Best period pants overall
Classic Bikini, £26, Flux Undies
When to wear them: At any point in your cycle.
Absorbency: Medium = three tampons' worth of blood.
Sizes: XS-XXL.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: "I never want to feel sluggish – or like a grandma – when I'm on my period, and these lace adorned period panties prevent that from ever happening. They look just like the normal cotton underwear I'd wear when I'm not bleeding (my boyfriend couldn't tell the difference), yet they protect me for up to ten hours holding three tampons' worth of blood.
I've tested them on long haul flights, overnight, in the office and on my work from home days, and honestly? They come up trumps every time. I love how lightweight they feel in comparison to period pants from other brands, how stretchy they are and how high they sit on my waist.
“If you need further convincing from outside of my glowing review, 86% of Flux reviewers said they avoided leakages in these period pants and felt comfortable at night. They absorbed fluid efficiently and dried in a flash in a lab test. I couldn't rate them more highly.”
2. Best for sleeping
Classic Waist Bikini, £22, Modibodi
When to wear them: Overnight.
Absorbency: Heavy; up to 4 tampon's worth.
Sizes: 3XS-2XL.
Colours: Orange, black, floral, aqua, clay and purple.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Lucy Smith, GLAMOUR Commerce Writer.
Why we love them: "As someone who's woken up to that dreaded crimson stain on my white bed sheets more times than I care to admit, finding a solution to aunt Flo's monthly crimes was top of my shopping list. Enter Modibodi. We're three years into my switch from tampons and pads to period pants and, I can say with complete honesty that Modibodi period pants have transformed the quality of my sleep.
"I no longer wake up in a panic that I've leaked at 2am, I don't need to set an alarm to change my tampon through the night and I can even wear white jeans in the day, stress free. So long my period support pal, performing an honourable "you're good" check as required. These will not let you down, even if you're a super plus extra tampon girl (or transgender man). The breathable bamboo makeup means no more sour period odour, and the extended absorbent pad up towards your tailbone provides extra security.
“If you were on the fence about making the switch, let this be the review that tips you in favour of period pants. Sincerely, a shameless heavy flow girlie.”
3. Best for heavy flow
WUKA Ultimate™ High Waist Super Heavy Super Flow, £25.99, WUKA
When to wear them: Working from home or on really heavy days.
Absorbency: Super heavy; up to 60ml worth of blood.
Sizes: XXS- 6XL.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: "WUKA's Ultimate High Waist period pants were the first pair of period pants I ever tried. To be honest, they're not my go-to, because my flow isn't quite heavy enough to justify needing a pair of panties with a super-heavy absorbency – but on the days I do need a little extra protection, I'll reach for them. I like that they sit really high on the waist (it's the perfect antidote to period-induced bloat), and I like that they always felt dry (even after I had bled into them for upwards of six hours). The gusset is extra-long for extra piece of mind, and the mesh panels make me feel a little bit sexier (when I'd otherwise feel anything but).
“They're also super stretchy (there's an up-to-45% stretch at the waist). It's also worth noting that they're crafted from sustainably sourced and manufactured Lenzing™ Modal fabric which is three and a half times softer than cotton (I can confirm this to be true). Your heavier flow never felt so manageable.”
4. Best for light flow
WUKA Period Pants Light Flow, £23.99, Wuka
When to wear them: At the tail-end of your period.
Absorbency: Light = one tampons' worth of blood.
Sizes: XXS- 6XL.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: "The first thing I noted when ordering WUKA's light flow period pants is that they're available from sizes XXS to 6XL – making them incredibly inclusive to all body shapes. Love. On the fabric front, they're made from eco-friendly and luxurious Tencel™️ fabric which is softer than cotton and vegan-friendly. They also feature a super-absorbent, hi-tech moisture barrier to keep them odour-free and dry.
“If you're after something which feels secure for up to 10 hours and is genuinely stretchy and breathable, I'd absolutely recommend these popular period pants from WUKA.”
5. Best seamless period pants
WUKA Stretch Seamless High Waist Heavy + Bag Heavy Flow, £19.99, WUKA
When to wear them: To you need to ditch the VPL.
Absorbency: Heavy; up to 12 hour wear.
Sizes: XS-4XL.
Colours: Black and nude.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “Is it weird to love a pair of period pants? Because I genuinely adore these. Aiding my passage through period days like a dream – and supporting me in my never-fading desire to exercise sartorial creativity – these seamless period pants came and changed my life just as I was beginning to consider using tampons for a certain few outfits.
Lots of period pants - no matter how supportive, stretchy and comfortable - can be seen through your jeans. The VPL is irritating, and can make me feel a little self-conscious. Enter: these super stretchy, seamless, high-waisted period pants from WUKA which hug in all the right place and never cut into your skin. The Stretch™ Microfiber Technology sculpts to fit all body shapes – and changes to fit your body during the course of your flow. It's hypoallergenic, there's no VPL, and the super absorbent gusset is extra-long which ensures I feel secure and protected. They also come with a free laundry bag A game changer.”
6. Best multi-pack
3pk Heavy Absorbency Period Knickers, £20, Marks and Spencer
When to wear them: To guarantee no leaks.
Absorbency: Heavy = three tampon's worth of blood.
Sizes: UK 6 - 28.
Colours: Black and monochrome spot.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “I have to say - I was a little sceptical about strayed away from a longer-standing period pants brand in favour of a (albeit stalwart) high street label, but I was pleasantly surprised by M&S' period panties offering. While they're probably not quite as absorbent as they were sold to be, they suited me fine for WFH days and felt super comfortable. I also loved how high the legs have been cut on these period pants – it makes me feel a lot “sexier” than I usually feel on my period, and means they can't be seen under many styles of clothes.
"They use StayNew™ technology to ensure longer-lasting colour and softness. They're also made from responsibly-sourced Tencel™ modal, scoring them sustainability points to boot.” Sophie Cockett, Commerce Editor.
Save when you shop for the best period knickers with these Marks and Spencer promo codes.
7. Best period-proof thong
WUKA Basics™ Thong Light Flow, £12, WUKA
When to wear them: When you're spotting.
Absorbency: Light = spotting and discharge.
Sizes: XXS- 6XL.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “I'm obsessed with wearing my WUKA light flow thong at the very beginning and tail-end of my period, when I don't need quite such a high absorbency but need a bit of spotting protection. Available right up to 6XL in size and available in packs of both three and five, they're a sustainable panty liner replacement that's made from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) certified cotton. They're also great for wearing under tight clothing and workout gear.”
8. Best for working out
PUMA X Modibodi Active Hi Cut Full Brief, £24, Modibodi
When to wear them: At the gym or on a run.
Absorbency: 15ml = 2-3 tampons.
Sizes: XS - 3XL.
Colours: Black, pink and green or black and grey.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “Part of the second collaboration between Mobibodi and Puma, these leak-free period-proof briefs are ideal for wearing under activewear when you're working out (and even when you're not, tbh). They're made from breathable, recycled fabric and feature a new mesh side panel that maximises airflow while you're sweating. I love the stretchy and high-rise elasticated waistband, the full coverage – yet how high they still sit on your legs. I suppose I now have no excuse not to work out when I'm bleeding…"
9. Best high-leg period pants
Recycled Seamfree Hi-Leg Cheeky, £22.50, Modibodi
When to wear them: When you want to feel sexy.
Absorbency: 15ml = 2-3 tampons or 3 teaspoons.
Sizes: 2XS-3XL.
Colours: Black or cashew.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “When I'm not on my period, I always wear underwear which sits high on my legs – to make me feel sexier if nothing else. That's why I loved this new style from Modibodi which are cut in a hi-leg cheeky style with no VPL. They're lightweight, super soft (you could easily wear them under gym leggings, cycling shorts or leotards) and have a super-absorbent lining to replace pads and tampons. I actually wore the nude pair under a white summer dress on holiday and felt totally protected."
10. Best period pants for teens
Teen Boyshort Heavy Absorbency, £17, Fluxies
When to wear them: Anytime mid-cycle.
Absorbency: Holds 4 Tampons / 28ml.
Sizes: Age 10-12, age 13-14 or age 15-16.
Colours: Line green and blue.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “Period pants for teens like these can help minimise the awkwardness of getting your period for the first time: something which can be really daunting. I really rate Fluxies for bringing out a range targeted at girls between the ages of 10 and 16, with these boy shorts one of their most popular (and best) styles. They look like normal knickers but absorb up to 28ml of blood. They have a snug fit, which makes them perfect for wearing during sports and other clubs and activities, and the fun colours make the whole bleeding debacle a lot less scary.”
11. Best for swimming
Recycled Swimwear Bikini Brief, £28, Modibodi
When to wear them: While swimming.
Absorbency: 10ml = 1-2 tampons.
Sizes: XS-2XL.
Colours: Pink and blue.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “Period-proof bikinis bottoms? Really? I was sceptical. Nervous, actually. I was on holiday with my friends in the South of France, begrudgingly on my period, and desperate to get involved in water sports/swimming races without fear of leaking. The perfect time to put them to the test, some might say, but that didn't stop the fear.
"The first thing I noticed was that they're so lightweight and thin – (and they have a really high leg) – so you could absolutely wear them underneath your favourite bikini or one-piece swimsuit. That, I did, because I like a one-piece swimsuit for a bit of extra coverage, but they became a really supportive absorbent layer. No need to miss out on all those trend-led designs from your favourite swimwear brands, after all.
“You could totally wear them alone if a low-rise bikini is your jam, and I'm confident in declaring them secure enough to wear for at least half a day at the pool or beach. Over the course of the week, I tested them in both scenarios – and I even wore them wild swimming when I returned to the UK. They dry really quickly, have UV50+ protection, are anti-chlorine treated and live up to all promises.”
12. Best budget
FLO x Netflix Sex Education Period-Proof Underwear, Hipster Briefs, Black, £19.99, Boots
When to wear them: To help you feel confident on heavy days.
Absorbency: 5 tampons' worth of blood.
Sizes: UK 8-22.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Lucy Smith, GLAMOUR Commerce Writer.
Why we love them: “When you have a seven-day period, things down there can feel a tad... tender. These pants from Flo, I can confidently say, feel like a breath of fresh air for your vagina. The gusset area is quite wide compared to similar products on the market, so you really do feel like there's enough room to last you through a whole day's bleed, and I'm a big fan of the price point. Super stretchy and definitely some of the most wicking and odourless period pants I've tried. Top marks, Flo.”
13. Best for new mums
Postpartum Control Brief, £22.50, Modibodi
When to wear them: Postpartum.
Absorbency: 15ml = 2-3 tampons or 3 teaspoons.
Sizes: XS-3XL.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: An anonymous GLAMOUR mum.
Why we love them: “Kudos to Modibodi for releasing these period pants designed to protect you from postpartum bleeding, heavy discharge or light to moderate bladder leaks after birth. Making you feel your very best thanks to the smoothing, shapewear-like fabric they're cut from, they're high-waisted and have bonded panels for targeted tummy control and back support. They're also made from pre-consumer recycled nylon fabric (sustainability creds, check) and feature an antimicrobial lining which stops them from smelling or staining.”
14. Best period-proof cycling shorts
PUMA X Modibodi Active Cycle Short Moderate-Heavy Aubergine, £48, Modibodi
When to wear them: Spin classes, running and other workouts.
Absorbency: 15ml = 2-3 tampons or 3 teaspoons.
Sizes: XS-4XL.
Colours: Aubergine.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “Smash PBs, run, jump and ride in these epic period-proof shorts from Modibodi. They make working out on your period so much more convenient, ‘cos you don’t need to wear any underwear beneath them. They can hold 2-3 tampons worth of blood which is more than ample for an hour-long workout (and brunch afterwards), and they're made from premium recycled fabric. I love that they have side pockets, too, which provide storage for your card, phone and keys.”
15. Best boyshorts
Teen Hipster Boyshort, £20, Modibodi
When to wear them: For lounging around the house.
Absorbency: 15ml = 2-3 tampons or 3 teaspoons.
Sizes: 8-10 to 16-18 (years).
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “All hail Modibodi for the relase of these period-proof shorts which have been designed to wear under school uniform, skirts, dresses or pyjamas when lounging around the house. They offer full cover while remaining discrete and prevent leaks and messy bed sheets. They feature a breathable patented 3mm lining which is absorbent and antimicrobial to fight odour, stains and bacteria.”
16. Best for incontinence
Chantelle Life Graphic Lace Period Proof High Waist Knickers, £26, John Lewis
When to wear them: When you need leaky bladder protection.
Absorbency: Heavy = four tampons' worth of blood.
Sizes: XS- XL.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Why we love them: “For a few months during lockdown, for whatever reason, my period were very erratic. These high-waisted period-proof knickers felt incredibly comfortable and gave me peace of mind without having to wear a sanitary towel. I've worn them on heavier days and find them fine for working from home (though the ever-so-slightly damp feeling would put me off wearing them in the office), and I've worn them when I'm lounging in my tracksuits in the evening. I'd recommend them for incontinence, on lighter days or before your period is due.” Sophie Cockett, Commerce Editor.
Save when you shop for the best period pants with these John Lewis promo codes.
17. Best for bloating
High Waist Heavy, £28.99, Bodyform
When to wear them: When you're going to be out of the house for a long time.
Absorbency: “Heavy”.
Sizes: 2XS-3XL.
Colours: Black, pink, turquoise.
Machine washable? Yes after rinsing in cold water.Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
Why we love them: “While these are really chunky and thick – so I wouldn't wear them outside of the house for fear of them showing through my clothes – they're worth a mention for how absorbent they are. If I was suffering from a really painful and heavy period, they're a solid, comfy choice and one which I'd rely upon endlessly. They protect you for up to 12 hours (confirmed, I've tested) and the seamless, super high waist is really comfortable. Bodyform® has developed revolutionary, highly protective TriTech Performance technology that absorbs the fluid in the blink of an eye and holds it securely for a long time, so you don't need to worry about feeling damp.”
