We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
The best period pants and reusable pads, tested by 355 women
These sustainable sanitary products provide hours of protection and comfort
Tested by Maria Kumar and Kim Hawley
Some of us are making the switch to period pants and it’s hardly surprising. They’re comfortable, convenient, kinder to the planet and will save you money in the long run.
The big question, though, is: do they actually work? To help you make the change from single-use sanitary pads to these more eco-friendly alternatives, our Good Housekeeping Institute experts put the best period pants to the test. Scroll on for in-depth reviews of our favourites, plus everything you need to know about these leak-proof products.
In a hurry? Here are our top picks at a glance:
Best period pants
How we test
Period pants
Our panel of over 350 testers trialled a range of period underwear from top brands in various sizes, styles and absorbencies for the duration of their period. They gave us detailed feedback on how comfy their pants were — considering the softness and breathability of the fabric — and crucially, the level of absorbency and protection against leakages. Testers were also asked how active and flexible the underwear allowed them to be and how easy it was to wash.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute lab, our experts measured the absorption rate of the underwear, as well as examining surface wetness, which involved re-wetting (using a weight and paper towel to see if the paper is damp after two minutes when under pressure, to replicate sitting down), and checking for any shrinkage after washing.
Reusable pads
Over 160 testers tried nine brands of sanitary pads and liners, including a mix of reusable pads and sustainably made or biodegradable disposables. Testers assessed absorbency levels, how protected they felt from leakage, and how comfortable they were to wear. In the lab, we did the same absorbency test as we did with the period pants.
Best period pants for 2026
Bodyform Intimawear Period Pants
Bodyform Intimawear Period Pants
Score: 92/100
Our winning pair absorbed fluid instantly and dried quickly in our lab test. One tester thought they looked “as seamless as regular underwear” under clothing and almost everyone found them soft and comfortable to wear.
They kept most panellists leak-free and also avoided any odours. No one experienced any irritation and all found them a doddle to wash. They don’t come in a range of absorbencies, but they do claim to hold as much fluid as a Bodyform Ultra Normal sanitary pad. Say no more.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Normal |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 8 hours |
| Material | Body/waist: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane. Gusset lining: 100% polyester. Gusset inner: 87% polyester, 13% polyamide. Gusset lower: 100% polyurethane |
| Sizes | S-XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
M&S High Leg Period Knickers
M&S High Leg Period Knickers
Score: 91/100
These M&S knickers come in an impressive range of sizes as well as different colours and designs.
None of our panellists reported any leakage and the vast majority found them silky-soft to wear, allowing them to move about freely, even when bloated. Overall, they impressed our testers so much that almost everyone said they planned to use them again.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | High |
|---|---|
| Protection | Not disclosed |
| Material | Body: 81% polyamide, 19% elastane. Gusset lining: 100% polyester. Gusset inner: 64% cotton, 36% polyester |
| Sizes | 6-28 |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Snuggs Hugger Extra Heavy
Snuggs Hugger Extra Heavy
Score 90/100
Many of us are familiar with the unbearable trap of ill-fitting knickers, which is why testers were thrilled by how comfortable these ones felt. The slimline gusset wasn’t too bulky, yet it still felt soft against the skin and offered impressive absorbency. Most testers agreed there wasn’t any noticeable ‘wet’ sensation, even on heavier flow days. “They felt as comfortable as wearing normal underwear,”one panellist commented.
A few would have liked a slightly higher waist to offer a touch more tummy control, but the lower rise design may appeal to those who prefer a bit more breathing space when everything feels extra sensitive.
They excelled in our lab testing, too, demonstrating immediate absorbency and showing barely any change after washing.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | Extra heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | 8-12 hours |
| Material | Body: 89% recycled nylon, 11% elastane. Functional layer: 100% polypropylene. Absorbent layer: 100% cotton. Impermeable membrane: 95% cotton, 5% PUL |
| Sizes | XXS-4XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
WUKA Stretch Seamless High Waist Period Pants (Heavy Flow)
WUKA Stretch Seamless High Waist Period Pants (Heavy Flow)
Score: 89/100
Leakage is common at various stages of life, and these stretchy WUKA pants are perfect for pregnancy, post-pregnancy or just the general bloating and shape-shifting our bellies do around that time of the month and beyond.
Our panel testified to the super-stretchy, seamless design of these knickers, telling us they were “more comfortable than a normal pair”, with one saying they'd bought another pair “they were so good!” The only thing to note was that one of our testers felt the sizing ran a bit small so they’d rather size up next time.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | Heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 12 hours |
| Material | Innovative StretchTM technology |
| Sizes available | XS-4XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
WUKA Basics Hipster Pants (Medium Flow)
WUKA Basics Hipster Pants (Medium Flow)
Score: 89/100
Made from sustainably-sourced, breathable fabric, these stretchy pants can absorb around two to three tampons’ worth of fluid.
Our testers said they were comfortable to wear and didn't cause irritation, and most said they felt secure and supported. No leakage was reported either, and they scored full marks in our absorbency lab tests.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Medium and heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 8 hours |
| Material | BCI certified cotton |
| Sizes | XXS-6XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Bodyform High Waist Period Pants
Bodyform High Waist Period Pants
Score: 88/100
If you’re worried about the design of flow-friendly underwear cramping your style, these trendy tampon substitutes should be top of your list. Testers were taken with the polka dot high-waist design, which made them feel like they could “still wear attractive pants while on [their] period.”
Our panel said they preferred these pants to pads and tampons and many said they’d continue using them after the trial, as the design and functionality makes them stand out from other plain black competitors. They also performed best in our lab tests for preventing leakage, avoiding shrinkage when washed and absorption rate.
Key specifdications
| Absorbency levels | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 12 hours |
| Material | Panty: 76% Polyamide — recycled, 24% Elastane, Lace: 73% Polyamide, 27% Elastane, Gusset: 100% Polyester / 87% Polyester, 13% Polyamide |
| Sizes | 2XS-3XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Step One Period Full Brief
Step One Period Full Brief
Score: 87/100
Our panel members found these high-brief pants wonderfully comfortable, with no groin rubbing or irritation, despite the thicker fabric.One tester noted that they felt especially supportive during bouts of bloating. Crafted from ab ultra-soft bamboo and viscose bland, they earn extra points for comfort and their eco-friendly credentials.
They’re practical to their core, which does mean the design is a touch basic and not particularly glamourous. Crucially, though, they’reextremely absorbent and offer ample protection, making them a great pick for heavier flow days and overnight. We tested the full brief design, but they’re also available in a standard brief and a thong, depending on what feels most like you.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | Full |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 20ml |
| Material | Main fabric: 95% viscose (bamboo), 5% elastane Inside gusset layer: 100% merino wool Absorbent layer: 70% polyester, 30% cotton with TPU laminate |
| Sizes | XS-2XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 87/100
Coming in a variety of styles and sizes, from bikini to high waist, these period pants are not only stylish but for every one you buy, a pair will be donated to a person in need.
Our testers liked how secure these felt when on, even during exercise, and appreciated their comfortable fit at night. They also scored almost full marks in our absorbency lab tests.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Medium |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 12 hours |
| Material | lining: 95% cotton,5% spandex, middle: 80% polyester, 20% nylon, body: 95% bamboo, 5% spandex |
| Sizes | UK 8-14 |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Cheeky Wipes Sassy Period Pants
Cheeky Wipes Sassy Period Pants
Score: 87/100
Add a bit of interest to your period underwear collection with this plaited design, which comes in a range of styles and colours.
They absorb 2.5 tampons’ worth of liquid and feel stretchy and secure, making them a good option for more active days. Our testers gave these pants their seal of approval too, saying they’d continue to use them after the trial.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Light, moderate, heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | 2.5 tampons' worth |
| Material | Nylon/Elastane (75%/25%), Lining: Cotton/Elastane (95%/5%), Waterproof Outer layer of Oeko-Tex certified TPU |
| Sizes | UK 4-24 |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Thinx Period Proof Organic Cotton Blend Bikini Briefs
Thinx Period Proof Organic Cotton Blend Bikini Briefs
Score: 85/100
Made from soft, organic natural fibres, these pants from menstrual underwear brand Thinx will keep you comfortable throughout your period. In the lab, we gave them full marks for absorbency and our testers appreciated their secure fit.
There were some concerns about limited odour protection, but they are easy enough to wash — just pop them in the washing machine on a cold cycle and hang out to dry.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Light, moderate, heavy, super |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 4 regular tampons' worth |
| Material | body 95% organic cotton, 5% elastane, gusset 95% cotton, 5% elastane; middle breathable PUL |
| Sizes | XXS-3XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Modibodi Classic Full Brief
Score: 84/100
Modibodi claims its pants can soak up an impressive 10 tampons’ worth of fluid and the lining prevents stains and odours. Our panel agreed, reporting excellent absorbency, and they scored almost full marks in the Good Housekeeping Institute lab.
Although not as breathable as other pants featured on our list — so perhaps not one to exercise in — they are comfortable. We think they're a top choice for nighttime wear or sofa days.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Super light, light, moderate, heavy-overnight |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 10 tampons' worth |
| Material | Outer — 95% Bamboo Viscose 5% Spandex, Gusset — Merino Wool, Polyester, Polyamide. Excludes trim |
| Sizes | XS-6XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 76/100
Some recoil at the thought of a period thong, and look, we get it. But if you’re at that point in your period where you just want to be done with it and retire the big bloomers for the month, then these period thongs are a great option.
Though some said they weren’t fully confident in wearing them for too long, others told us they were great for lighter days, and they didn’t experience anyleakage. They also said they were extremely comfortable when dry, as well as being very absorbent. “These were super comfy and stretchy, without any itchy or painful side seams,” said one tester.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Light |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to one tampon |
| Material | 95% viscose |
| Sizes | XS-2XL |
| Machine washable | Yes, just give them a pre-rinse before putting them on a cold wash |
Ruby Cup Flow Freedom Period Underwear
Ruby Cup Flow Freedom Period Underwear
Score: 82/100
The ultra-thin, buttery-soft feel of these undies made them stand out from the crowd on test. Our panellists loved the high-waisted style, which is designed with comfort and restriction-free movement in mind. They can hold three super tampons’ worth of fluid, too, with none of our testers experiencing leakage overnight or on their heavier days.
Due to the nature of the material, they can’t be chucked in your regular wash, which was their only downside. Instead, you just need to rinse them out with cold water, then wash them on a cold cycle. However, they’re available in multipacks so you’ll always have spares.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | Heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | 3 Super tampons, can hold up to 50ml |
| Material | Inner layers – 80% polyester and 20% nylon. Middle layer – 100% polyester for extra absorbency. Outer layer – 78% Nylon and 22% spandex for a soft and secure fit |
| Sizes | XS-4XL |
| Machine washable | Only on cold cycle after rinsing |
Best reusable pads
Hey Girls Reusable Pads
Hey Girls Reusable Pads
Score: 87/100
Another entry from Hey Girls, but this time in the shape of reusable and machine-washable pads, which use absorbent bamboo microfibres to eliminate leakage.
Our testers said they were comfortable to wear and fitted neatly into existing underwear, secured by wings and a popper seal. The majority said they performed better than disposable pads too, making them a reliable investment.
Key specifications
| Material | Microfibre bamboo |
|---|---|
| Included | 5 reusable pads and wet bag |
| Absorbency options | Moderate, heavy/night |
| Wings | Yes |
Dame Reusable Period Pad - regular
Dame Reusable Period Pad - regular
Score: 80/100
DAME is focused on finding solutions to the plastic pollution problem surrounding our menstrual cycles – from its reusable tampon applicator to its period pants, the brand aims to cut down waste for good.
Made from natural materials such as bamboo and organic cotton, these reusable pads are machine washable and can absorb as much fluid as a super-plus-size tampon. Our testers were pleased with their overall performance, praising how comfortable and soft they were to wear.
Key specifications
| Material | Polyamide, Polyester, Lycra Fibers, Organic cotton, Lyocell, Bamboo Viscose, Polyurethane |
|---|---|
| Included | 1 reusable pad |
| Absorbency options | Regular or night |
| Wings | Yes |
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we’ve been testing products for over 100 years, which includes all the latest innovations, from period pants and the best period swimwear to the best period pain relief devices.
Our beauty and grooming testing manager Maria Kumar led this test and is an expert in her field. With a master's degree in chemical engineering, a diploma in cosmetic science and an MBA from the London College of Fashion, she knows what goes into creating market-leading products.
She created the protocols we review all period pants against, ensuring we rigorously test any comfort, absorbency and design claims to find the most reliable products on the market.
How long can you wear period pants?
How long you can wear the same pair of pants will depend on how heavy your flow is. But generally, brands claim you can wear each pair from six to eight hours so it’s a good idea to get multiple pairs if you’re relying on them as your sole form of protection. But again, this completely depends on your flow.
How to choose the best period pants
These are the key factors to consider when shopping for period pants.
- Absorbency level: In the same way as you shop different tampon absorbency levels, you will need to take into account how heavy your flow is and at what point you plan to wear them during your period for optimum protection. We tested a range of absorbencies, from the Snuggs Period Underwear,which offer protection for extra heavy days, while Modibodi offers a range of absorbencies, from light to super.
- Fit: As with any pants, choose the style you prefer, whether bikini briefs, as this can make a difference to overall comfort. Step One even does period thongs.
- Fabric: Most period pants are created with man-made fibres such as soft Tencel and elastane, but there are natural options available too, such as thesecotton ones from Wuka.
Are period pants actually more eco-friendly than disposable sanitary items?
Roughly 2.5 million tampons, 1.4 million pads and 700,000 panty liners are flushed every single day in the UK, so making the change to a reusable option really can make a difference. The most popular reusable sanitary product is the menstrual cup, but if you find these too invasive, pants and pads are a great alternative.
Depending on how diligent you are with caring for them, and how often you wear them, the lifecycle for a reusable pair of pants or a sanitary pad is up to five years — saving countless disposables from ending up in landfills.
The upfront costs are higher (roughly up to £35 for a pair of period pants), but with the average woman spending around £120 per year on sanitary products and inflation only making things worse, you’ll make a significant saving in the long run.
How to wash period pants and reusable pads
Most reusable pads and pants are either washed on a cold cycle or can be added to your usual wash, so they aren’t particularly high maintenance. Brands generally recommend you mix them in with your weekly dark wash, on a 30℃-40℃ cycle, but always check the care instructions beforehand.
It’s important not to use any fabric softener, as this can affect the products absorbency levels, while putting them in a delicates bag can help them last longer.
The verdict on period pants and resuable pads
Look to our winner, the Bodyform Intimawear Period Pants, for a reliable all-rounder. The pants didn't leak during testing and proved extremely comfy to wear.
For those heavy flow days, our panellists liked the ModiBodi Period Classic Full Briefs, which can hold up to 10 tampons' worth of fluid.
When it comes to the best reusable period pads, Hey Girls was our clear winner for comfort and reliability.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
Maria is our Beauty and Grooming Testing Manager, and since joining in mid-2022, she has managed the testing for mutiple categories including scalp scrubs, collagen supplements and retinol serums. In addition to her master's degree in chemical engineering and a diploma in cosmetic science, she recently received her MBA from the London College of Fashion, focusing on case studies within the beauty industry. Prior to joining the company, she worked within the global technical team at the Estee Lauder Companies for over six years, collaborating with the chemists and engineers to launch luxury beauty products at scale and to quality. She has also worked as a formulation scientist within the pharmaceutical industry and takes this evidence based approach into all her product testing.
Kim Hawley is the Senior Health & Fitness Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the independent testing of health, fitness, wellness and sleep products using evidence-led protocols and her extensive industry expertise.
With more than 30 years' experience in the health and fitness industry, Kim has worked as a lead personal trainer, fitness instructor and health writer, teaching at some of London's leading health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Kim has a particular interest in women's health, especially pre-, peri- and post-menopause, and combines hands-on industry experience with rigorous product evaluation. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to home gym equipment, recovery devices, wellness tech, supplements and sleep solutions, she oversees comprehensive testing to help consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions they can trust.
