Let's face it: periods kind of suck. You don't always feel great and you've got to do something to keep the blood from getting all over your clothes. And while tampons and pads are the old, familiar stand-by, have you ever wondered if there was a better option? There is. With period panties, you can finally ditch the toxic tampons and say goodbye to wasteful maxi pads. These specially designed underwear look and feel like normal panties, but they have a secret. There's a layer inside that can securely catch your flow without leaking. What's more, unlike other period options, these are actually comfortable. This means once you give period panties a try, you may decide to never go back. To help you sort through the options, here are a few of the best pairs on the market in terms of absorbency, cost, and comfort. Innersy Women’s Period Panties Trusty CompanionsThe extended lining in these period panties means you don't have to worry about bleeding through.Best OverallFind on Amazon These period panties are so cute and comfortable. Not only does the cotton and spandex fabric mix feels soft on your skin, but inside, you’ll find an absorbent cotton lining that extends further than in most period panties. This extended coverage helps prevent leaks. The absorbent layer isn’t thick – it’s similar to about half of a tampon. These period panties are designed to work in conjunction with another form of protection on your heavy flow days. You can select from several different color options. They’re available in size extra-small through 3X-large, so women of all sizes can confidently walk around, knowing there are no surprises to be had where the sun don’t shine throughout the day. Pros Protective layer in both the front and rear of the panties for all-around protection Waterproof layer to help you stay dry Dark grey lining that doesn’t stain easily, so your period panties stay looking great for longer Cons Not super absorbent, so you’ll need additional protection on heavy days of your cycle Bambody Absorbent/Overnight High-Waist Panty For Women of All SizesYou can get these high-waisted period panties in so many sizes.Best High-WaistedFind on Amazon Are you tired of waking up in the morning with stained bedsheets during your time of the month? These period panties can help prevent that. They have an extended leak-proof layer, along with an absorbent layer, and since they can absorb about two tampons worth of liquid, they’re the perfect option to wear at night. The high-waisted design sits comfortably on your body. Sure, they may look like granny panties to some, but others may consider this a hip new style. Regardless of your style preferences, there’s one objective fact nobody can deny: they certainly feel nice. In fact, if you’ve just had a baby, these are the period panties you want to go with. They will be gentle on your waist, even if you had a C-section. That said, don’t think these aren’t for you if you aren’t postpartum. They are a comfortable, absorbent pair of period panties for any woman. Pros Made from bamboo fabric, which is strong and smooth, they’ll feel nice on your body Very absorbent, holding up to 30 ml of fluid in each pair, so you may not need additional protection (depending on your body’s cycle) Comes with three pairs, so you can always make sure you have a clean one ready to go Cons The leg holes have a snug fit that can take some time to get used to, but this design helps to prevent leaks. Bambody Leak Proof Hipster Period Panties Move and GrooveYou'll be able to freely move your body in these period panties.Best for Active WomenFind on Amazon Bambody understands that your period shouldn’t slow you down. If you’re normally active, you shouldn’t have to change things up for a week each month just because of your cycle. Bambody made their period panties with active women in mind. They’re perfect to wear during physical activity on lighter days of your cycle. Touting a smooth, silky feel, these are made from bamboo fabric that won’t restrict your movement. The fabric is also breathable, to help keep you from overheating. Additionally, it wicks away moisture so you stay nice and dry even when you’re sweating. If you want to keep moving during your period, give these period panties a try. Pros They don’t feel bulky, so you can move around like you’re wearing regular underwear No crinkly noise to be heard, so you aren’t advertising the fact that you’re experiencing your cycle Pack of three with a couple of different color options so you can find ones that make you feel great Cons Not high absorbency, so it’s best to wear alternative protection on your heaviest days. THINX BTWN Teen Period Underwear Stay Fresh and DryThese period panties have a moisture-wicking layer to help you stay dry during your cycle.Best for TeensFind on Amazon Teens and women often have different body shapes, so what works well for you may not be a great fit for your daughter. To help her decide what kind of period panties work best, you might want to go with this set. The box comes with three different styles: shorties, bikini, and brief. She can try them all out, and then you can purchase more of whichever cut she prefers. All three pairs are made from organic cotton. The fabric helps to wick away moisture, keep your skin dry, and help control odor so that there won’t be any funky smells to deal with. Additionally, these period panties are very absorbent. They’re designed to be used alone, so you don’t have to worry about using supplementary pads or tampons. Pros Designed for teens and can help them be prepared for an irregular cycle as their body develops Great absorbency (up to 2 tampons worth), so if your teen has a light or moderate cycle this will be all they need Cute material and designs that mimic regular underwear and don’t feel like you’re wearing a bulky pad Cons Since there are three different cuts, you may decide you don’t like all of them and end up with pairs you don’t use. Take a long time to dry (often overnight) so you can’t rush wash these and expect them to be ready. 4period 5-Pack High Absorbency Period Panties Super AbsorbentThe absorbent layer on these period panties has got you covered, even on heavier days.Most AbsorbentFind on Amazon If you’re hoping to replace your other period supplies with period panties, give these ones a try. They’re designed with free bleeding in mind, so they’re very absorbent. The protective lining provides full back coverage, so you won’t have any embarrassing leaks. The bamboo-derived fabric is silky smooth, so you won’t mind wearing them. It’s a breathable fabric, so you won’t get too hot in these period panties. Also, the moisture-wicking layer helps keep your skin dry. They’re very comfortable all the way around. Pros High absorbency that’s perfect for heavy flow days Comes with five pairs, so you won’t have to wash them as often Dark color so that they won’t show stains easily Cons These run a little small, so if you have a larger behind you might want to go up a size. You may notice a little noise while wearing these, similar to how it sounds when you wear a pad. It’s not loud enough that others will notice, but you might hear it. Frequently Asked Questions How do you wash period panties? The thought of caring for period panties can really make a lot of women squirm, but honestly, it’s not that bad: you simply rinse them in cool water until they run clear. Then, depending on the brand, you’ll either hand wash them or put them in the washer. Once they’re clean, you’ll want to hang them up to dry. Do not put them in the dryer. If you experience any odors, you can use a couple of drops of tea tree oil to help. Another option is to rinse them with vinegar. Once you get the hang of caring for your period panties, you’ll be able to do it in no time. Do I need to wear pads or tampons with period panties? Not all period panties are the same. Some are absorbent enough to use alone, even on your heaviest period days. Others are designed to be backup to ensure you don’t leak through your cup, tampon, or pad. You know your body best, and nobody is more familiar with your cycle than you. If you’re having a heavy day, you may want to consider using an alternative form of protection in addition to your period panties. This is especially true if you are going to be out and about longer than normal. Related posts:Powered by SearchIQ The Best Dog Period Pads In 2024 Read more The Best Pee Pads Read more The Best Female Dog Diapers Read more