The Top 5 Tampons

When that time of the month rolls around, it's important to have products on-hand that you can trust. With countless different brands, types, and styles of tampons to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones are reliable and best for you to use each and every month. We've explored the options out there and chosen our top five favorites so you can feel more confident and comfortable when making your choice.

Tampax Radiant Plastic Tampons

A Reliable Tampon You Can Count On

This classic favorite is tried-and-true so you can feel confident you'll be leak-free every month.

Best Overall

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These classic tampons come in a versatile mix of regular and super absorbency to suit your different needs. This crowd-favorite option offers 100% leak and odor-free protection to help stop leaks in their tracks and make sure you feel confident all day long. The core is made from an absorbent mix of cotton and rayon, and the plastic applicator has been designed for an easy grip—plus, wear each tampon for up to eight hours without worry.

Pros:

Mix of regular and super sizes
Unscented
Up to eight hours of wear

Cons:

Only 14 super tampons per box

Playtex Sport Tampons with Flex-Fit Technology

Stay Active and Still Feel Protected

Designed for fitness, this unscented tampon is perfect for any type of workout.

Best for Workouts

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These cotton tampons are designed specifically to protect bodies in motion. The FlexFit fibers will mold and adjust to your body’s shape as you move, and the 360-degree protection ensures you don’t have any unexpected leaks. The unscented tampons won’t cause irritation or sensitivity, making them perfect for any activity from swimming to running to gymnastics.

Pros:

FlexFit technology made for movement
Unscented
Contoured applicator

Cons:

Only regular absorbency included

o.b. Original Non-Applicator Tampons

Ultra Absorbent Tampons Without an Applicator

These non-applicator tampons are both effective and environmentally friendly.

Most Eco-Friendly

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These tampons feature special groves to improve leak protection. The shape expands to fit perfectly so you feel comfortable all day, and you’ll also create less waste thanks to the no-applicator design. Created by a female gynecologist to fit a woman’s shape, these tampons are uniquely fitted to the body for protection for up to eight hours.

Pros:

Environmentally friendly
Specially designed grooves for leak protection
Wear up to eight hours

Cons:

No applicator

Organyc 100% Certified Organic Cotton Tampons

An Organic and Plant-Based Design

Organic cotton tampons you can feel good about using every month.

Best Organic Option

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These tampons are totally free of any synthetic ingredients and are made from 100% organic cotton. Without fragrances, chemicals, or dyes, you can feel confident that you won’t experience irritation or sensitivity with this gentle product. The super-absorbent tampons feature a smooth and plant-based applicator for easy insertion, and the applicator is small and discreet in size so it easily fits into pockets or purses.

Pros:

Organic and plant-based
100% cotton
Hypoallergenic

Cons:

Only 16 tampons per box

Tampax Pearl Tampons Regular Absorbency with LeakGuard Braid

A Staple You'll Return to Month After Month

This trusted design gives you up to eight hours of leak protection.

Best Unscented Option

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This classic, regular absorbency tampon has a special LeakGuard braid to prevent any leaks—before they happen. The exterior smooth layer helps keep things comfortable, and the anti-slip applicator makes it easy to insert. Experience up to eight hours of leak-free protection that is so comfortable, you’ll forget you’re wearing one.

Pros:

LeakGuard braid prevents leaks
Anti-slip applicator grip
Up to eight hours of protection

Cons:

Only regular absorbency included

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you flush tampons down the toilet?

Tampons should never be flushed down the toilet. Because most tampons are not totally organic, it can be bad for the environment. Flushing them can also be bad for plumbing because they don’t break down like toilet paper.

Are tampons safe?

Tampons must pass through an FDA review to ensure they are safe and effective, and when used properly, tampons are a totally safe feminine hygiene product. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label to prevent any problems, and change tampons every four to eight hours to avoid the risk of toxic shock syndrome.

Do tampons expire?

If they are left in the package, tampons last about five years. To make sure they last, store tampons in a cool, dry place. A tampon’s shelf-life is greatly shortened when stored in a moist environment, like a bathroom, because it can lead to the growth of bacteria.