We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
The best period swimwear for leak-proof dips, tried and tested
There’s no need to throw in the towel with our top picks
Tested by Kim Hawley and Yanar Alkayat
Getting your period can be a hassle at the best of times, but having your time of the month when you’re heading to the beach, spa or your local leisure centre can put a real spanner in the works. For some, wearing a tampon or menstrual cup in the water can feel uncomfortable and restrictive, and then there’s the fear of experiencing a leak – it can be more than enough to keep you on dry land.
Thankfully, the best period-proof swimwear is here to save the day. You've probably heard of period pants by now, but the latest innovation is period swimwear. An increasing number of brands are bringing out absorbent costumes and bikinis, so you can swim with confidence. Hallelujah!
The best period swimwear for 2026
Whether you’re after a simple one-piece or a stylish bikini, our Good Housekeeping Institute experts have tested a range of styles to find the best leak-proof swimwear worth splashing out on.
And if our tested options aren't quite right, then our editors have also included some of their favourite designs below, so you'll be sure to find something that suits you. Here are our top picks at a glance
How we test period swimwear
We recruited a panel of women to test a variety of period bikinis and swimsuits from leading brands while they were on their flow. They wore the swimwear in the pool, while lounging on beach and in the spa, and judged them on the following criteria.
- Design: Our testers noted how easy each product was to get on and off, whether the fit was true to size and if the absorbency area was a suitable size for protection.
- Comfort: We were on the hunt for products with soft, comfortable material that didn’t feel too restrictive.
- Performance: Crucially, panellists rated the swimwear on how well they protected against leaks, before giving their overall verdict and telling us whether they’d continue wearing them.
Back at the Good Housekeeping Institute, our experts assessed liquid absorption time and measured surface wetness post-absorption. They also carried out wash tests to see if the swimwear remained the same in terms of colour, fit and size after multiple machine washes.
These came out on top.
WUKA Scoop Back Period Swimsuit
WUKA Scoop Back Period Swimsuit
Pros
- Suitable for larger breasts
- No leaks reported
- Comfortable and supportive
Cons
- Not suitable for very heavy periods
Score: 97/100
One of the first period-proof brands on the market, WUKA has been leading the charge with its high-performing, stylish pieces, and this chic number – made to hold three tampons’ worth of blood – is no different. It was a resounding hit with our testers, scoring close to full marks for design, comfort and performance. “I can’t think of anything I don’t like about it!” said one satisfied customer.
Our panel was extremely impressed by the discreet design, saying it wasn’t bulky and looked and felt just like a regular swimming costume. They also raved about the “perfect” material, which was soft, comfy and provided good coverage and support – even for those with larger breasts. Crucially, no one experienced any leaks, and it performed brilliantly in our in-house absorbency tests. On top of that, it dried quickly and washed well.
The swimsuit has a simple but attractive scoop neck back and comes in three different colours.
Key specifications
| Materials | Recycled Nylon, elastane, polyester, bamboo, charcoal, breathable TPU |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS – 2XL |
| Absorbency | Light to moderate |
Savvi Wear High Waisted Bikini Bottoms
Savvi Wear High Waisted Bikini Bottoms
Pros
- Stretchy, comfortable fabric
- Handy travel bag included
- Discreet design
Cons
- Limited colours to choose from
Score: 92/100
Our winning bikini bottoms were a universal hit, earning top marks from our panellists for absorbency, style and comfort. The extra-long gusset, made from breathable bamboo charcoal, provided plenty of coverage and security, and there were no leaks reported (they claim to hold up to 2.5 tampons’ worth of fluid, making them a perfect match for light to moderate days.)
Our testers loved the discreet design, with many commenting that they looked and felt just like a regular pair of bikini bottoms. The material was soft, stretchy and comfortable – even on those bloated days – and there was no irritating chafing or unwanted bulk. “Swimming on your period can be uncomfortable and distracting but these bottoms made it feel easy and freeing,” said one satisfied tester. They come with a reusable zip-lock bag for easy transportation, too.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyamide, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 3XS -4XL |
| Absorbency | Light to moderate |
La Redoute Period Triangle Swimsuit
Pros
- Chic, flattering design
- Soft, comfortable fabric
- Good for light flows
Cons
- Not suitable for moderate or heavy days
Score: 87/100
This gorgeous swimsuit is ideal for lazy beach days and spa visits. “It’s a lovely design that makes you feel a bit sexy, even on period days,” noted one panellist. Another said: "It's really flattering."
The wide straps were comfortable and the soft, stretchy swimsuit was a pleasure to wear. It doesn’t have an underwire or padding, so there’s no risk of chafing or digging in around the bust, either.
Performance-wise, it's great for light flow days, but isn't designed for moderate or heavy periods. It scored highly in our in-house wash tests, with no colour fading or shrinkage reported.
Just note, the plunging V-neckline means it isn’t the most supportive of styles for swimming if you have larger breasts.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyamide, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 18 |
| Absorbency | Light |
ModiBodi Recycled Swimwear Hi-Waist Bikini Brief
Pros
- Flattering, secure high-waisted design
- Discreet, non-bulky lining
- Good range of sizes
Cons
- Not suitable for moderate or heavy flows
Score: 86/100
ModiBodi has been making waves in the period apparel market, so we weren't surprised to see its bikini bottoms perform on test. Holding up to two tampons’ worth of blood, they’re perfect for lighter days or as extra protection on heavy flow days.
Our panel praised the flattering, high-waisted design and thick waistband, which helped them feel secure and supported. They were comfy to swim in and everyone said they felt confident they wouldn't leak in the water. The best part? The absorbent lining is incredibly discreet, with no unnecessary bulk.
The material is on the thicker side, but this wasn’t a major issue for our testers, with many saying they’d wear them again and even recommend them to friends. Plus, they were easy to wash and dried in a flash.
Key specifications
| Materials | Recycled nylon, Spandex |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 8-20 |
| Absorbency | Light to moderate |
WUKA Period Racerback Two-Tone Swimsuit
WUKA Period Racerback Two-Tone Swimsuit
Pros
- Secure, supportive racerback design
- Suitable for serious swimming
- Soft, quick-drying fabric
Cons
- Removable padding not for everyone
- Sizing runs small
Score: 84/100
The second Wuka design in our round-up, testers couldn’t get enough of this two-tone style, which can hold up to three tampons' worth of blood to protect during moderate periods and from light bladder leaks. “It hugs the body in all the right ways," said one panellist. Another commented: “It helps cover a bloated tummy.”
Testers praised the soft, slinky material – it didn’t cause irritation for those with sensitive skin – and said it wasn’t too revealing, allowing them to feel secure and confident in and out of the water. They also confirmed it stayed firmly in place while swimming.
A few panellists found the fit a little restrictive around the groin, so we recommend sizing up if you’re unsure. The removable padding also divided testers, with some noting there was a visible outline when they took it out. Still, the swimsuit washed well, with very minimal shrinkage and colour fading noted.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyamide, elastane, TPU |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS - 2XL |
| Absorbency | Moderate |
The Period People Period Swimsuit
The Period People Period Swimsuit
Pros
- No leaks reported
- Good breast support for swimming
- Soft, comfortable fabric
Cons
- Sizing runs small
Score: 83/100
If you’re in the market for a one-piece, consider this fuss-free design from UK brand The Period People. It claims to hold up to three tampons' worth of blood, courtesy of multiple layers of protection at the gusset, making it a top choice whether you’re going for a serious swim or just lounging by the pool.
Testers were pleased with its overall performance, praising the absorbent, waterproof lining that kept leaks and odours at bay. The “game-changing” design allowed them to continue with their usual swimming routine while on their period, and extra points were awarded for the comfortable fabric and strong breast support.
Some found the padding a little bulky, and its basic look wasn’t to everyone’s taste but that’s down to personal preference. The only thing to note is they ran a bit small, so we’d recommend sizing up for the best fit.
Key specifications
| Materials | Spandex, nylon |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS-XXL |
| Absorbency | Not specified |
WUKA Period Racerback Swimsuit
WUKA Period Racerback Swimsuit
Pros
- Discreet gusset
- Soft, flexible fabric
- No leaks reported
Cons
- Not for heavy flow days
- Design wasn't for everyone
Score: 83/100
Another racerback style from our pals at Wuka, this one earned our testers’ seal of approval thanks to the smooth fabric (it's quick-drying and chlorine-resistant and comes with built-in UV50 sun protection), which felt breathable and flexible when swimming. It didn’t let them down whether they were doing front crawl or breaststroke and remained comfortable and leak-free all session long.
The top has built-in removable cups, but some found the cut a little too revealing at the bust and commented that it wouldn’t be supportive enough for high-energy activities such as aqua aerobics. Overall, it's a reliable buy for keen swimmers.
Key specifications
| Materials | Recycled nylon, water-repellent outer fabric |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS-XXL |
| Absorbency | Light to medium |
WUKA Swim High Waist Bottoms
WUKA Swim High Waist Bottoms
Pros
- Extremely secure during swimming
- No colour fading or shrinkage noted
- Soft, comfortable fabric
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy flow days
- Lack of colours to choose from
Score: 81/100
Wuka is a market-leader for a reason. These bikini bottoms are a reliable pick for lighter days or for extra protection at the tail end of your period. Thanks to the high-waisted, supportive design, they allowed our testers to enjoy stress-free, leak-free swims. “I felt really safe and secure when wearing them,” one tester told us.
The fabric proved popular – it's silky-soft and flexible, plus it stayed firmly in place as our panellists splashed around in the water. The bottoms also have built-in UPF 50+ sun protection and they’re chlorine resistant, so rest assured they'll maintain their quality after multiple uses.
If all that wasn’t enough, they proved quick to dry and were a cinch to wash – you simply rinse them with cold water then pop them in the washing machine with similar colours. Not convinced? Wuka offers a 40-day satisfaction guarantee on your first purchase.
Key specifications
| Materials | Recycled nylon, elastane, polyester, bamboo, charcoal Sizes: XS – 4XL |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS – 4XL |
| Absorbency | Light |
Editors' top picks
M&S Ribbed Period Swimsuit
M&S Ribbed Period Swimsuit
If you’re after a flattering one-piece for your next holiday that will also provide peace of mind, this ribbed scoop-neck swimsuit deserves a spot in your suitcase.
Made from stretchy fabric, with removable padding, it’s designed to absorb a heavy flow. Despite its practical design it still feels comfortable to wear and will look chic by the pool. Do note that the swimsuit comes up a little small, so it's worth sizing up.
Key specifications
| Materials | 85% polyester, 15% elastane Lycra® |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 - 24 |
| Absorbency | Medium to heavy |
Snuggs Snuggs Period Swimwear Classic
At just 1.5mm thin, these stylish high-waisted bikini bottoms feel just like regular swimwear. The crossover waistband is flattering, while the discreet three-layer gusset will give you protection against lighter leaks as you swim.
Made with recyclable nylon, the briefs come in red or black, and you can pair them with one of the brand’s matching bikini tops. They’re ideal for a sunny holiday as they also have built-in UV50 sun protection (although don’t forget to slather on the suncream, too).
Key specifications
| Materials | Nylon, polyester and elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS to XL |
| Absorbency | Light |
Leovqn Period Waterproof Bottoms
If you’re partial to a bold pattern and a splash of colour, these vibrant bikini bottoms should be on your radar. They’ll look the part whether you’re hitting the local pool or dipping in and out of the sea on holiday. The high-waisted design means they’ll also provide sufficient support and coverage and they come in a vast range of sizes.
In terms of absorbency, they’re best suited to lighter period days or you can wear them with a tampon on heavier days for extra protection. They also come in a range of colours and styles.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyamide, Spandex |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS – XXL |
| Absorbency | Light |
OVRUNS Period Leakproof Bikini Brief Bottoms
While performance is key, we also want our period swimwear to look good, especially if we're heading off on holiday. Enter these chic high-waisted bikini bottoms, which were an instant hit with our editors.
They have a subtle absorbent liner designed to hold up to two tampons’ worth of blood, as well as built-in UV50 sun protection, making them an ideal choice for holidays in hot destinations. The stretchy fabric means they’re easy to slip on and the thick, supportive waistband will help you feel comfortable and confident, whether you’re at the pool or the beach.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyamide, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS - 3XL |
| Absorbency | Light |
We’re big fans of this classic one piece, which has stretchy elasticated shoulder straps and clever leak-proof technology that absorbs up to two tampons’ worth of blood.
You can happily wear the swimsuit on its own if your flow is light, but it's advisable to use extra protection if your flow is moderate or heavy. As a bonus, it comes in a wide range of sizes from 3XS to XXL.
At under £10, these period-proof bikini bottoms offer excellent value for money.
The discreet leak-proof layer is made from organic cotton for ultimate comfort, and the fuss-free bottoms can hold up to three tampons pads worth of blood. They're designed to wick away moisture and prevent unwanted odours, so you can paddle, swim or sunbathe without a care in the world.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we've been testing products for over 100 years, so we know when to look for when it comes to the best buys.
Our senior sleep and wellness tester, Kim Hawley, looks after wellness reviews, making sure we judge each product rigorously and fairly, from the best period swimwear to the best exercise bikes. She's a level 4 qualified personal trainer and has years of experience working in leading health clubs, so she has high expectations when it comes to her workout gear.
Our sleep and wellness editor Priyankaa Joshi, is responsible for making sure we’ve tested the latest products from established brands and turning the test results into helpful reviews.
What is period swimwear?
Period swimwear works in the same way as period underwear. These clever designs feature super-absorbent, fast-drying linings and leak-proof gussets to absorb blood and discharge, prevent leaks and keep you clean and comfortable while you’re in the water. And worry not – all our winners are extremely subtle, with no obvious padding or bulk.
Some styles prevent the need for tampons or cups altogether, while others are designed to be worn with sanitary products for secondary protection. These may also be suitable to wear on their own for light days and spotting at the tail end of your period.
How to wash period swimwear
It’s much simpler than you may think! Rinse your costume or bikini under a cold tap and then add it to your usual dark wash on a 30℃ cycle. Some brands, such as Modibodi, recommend putting them on a cold cycle instead, so do check the label first.
Avoid fabric softener as this can affect absorbency levels, and put your swimwear in a delicates bag if you’ve got one lying around – this will help them last longer.
Does period-proof swimwear actually work?
Yes, similar to period pants, period swimwear usually features an absorbent gusset made from high-tech fabrics that absorb menstrual blood without taking in water. We’ve noted in our key specs above which products are tailored to heavy, medium and light flows, so you can make sure you choose the right swimwear for you.
Is there a way to go swimming on your period without a tampon?
Depending on how heavy your flow is, you could experience some leakage in and out of the water. In this case, you may want to consider one of the following options if you don’t want to use a tampon.
Menstrual cup: A menstrual cup, normally made from rubber or medical-grade silicone, is an alternative option to tampons. It can hold more than three times as much blood as a tampon can, too.
Period swimwear: Brands including M&S, WUKA and ModiBodi offer flattering period swimwear designed to absorb your menstrual flow when you’re swimming. The special lining in the gusset area helps to keep you leak-free.
What are the disadvantages of period swimwear?
Depending on your flow and the absorbency level of your period swimwear, you may also have to wear a tampon or a menstrual cup. Always check that the absorbency level of the period swimwear you buy matches your current flow to help avoid any leaks.
Although period swimwear is reusable and washable, as we've said above, it should be handled more delicately than regular underwear or swimwear. Check the washing instructions on the label, as manufacturers normally recommend using a lower temperature or a delicate setting. When it comes to drying, pop them on a washing line or clothes horse, rather than using a tumble dryer.
Do you need to wear a tampon with period swimwear?
This depends on your flow and which swimwear you opt for. If you have a heavy flow, your period swimwear needs to match your absorbency level; otherwise, for extra protection, you will need to wear a tampon. If you don’t want to wear a tampon, you can opt for a menstrual cup instead. The rubber or medical-grade silicone cups can hold up to 30ml of period blood.
The verdict: do period swimsuits really work?
If you're looking to invest in a one-piece, our winning Wuka Scoop Back Period Swimsuit won't let you down. The design is discreet, it aced our absorbency tests and it looks stylish.
Prefer a bikini? Savvi Wear's High Waisted Bikini Bottoms are a great choice, and they'll set you back less than £25.
More expert-approved health and wellness buys
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.
Sarah is our wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. She can be regularly found on a yoga mat or training for a run, so she knows what to look for when it comes to the best yoga leggings, hydration vests or running trainers. From fitness trackers to the best supplements, she also has extensive experience writing about the latest products and writing detailed honest reviews.
Prior to joining the GHI, Sarah was a freelance journalist for 10 years, specialising in health, fitness and travel for national newspapers and magazine. During her time at Women’s Health, she interviewed celebrities about their fitness routines, for the Telegraph she investigated the health risks of Lime Bikes and visited Thailand to look at the trend of longevity travel - while for the London Standard she wrote about topics including AI powered PTs and smart ice baths.
When she isn’t testing out the latest smart watches, lifting weights at the gym, or hopping on a flight, Sarah can be found running around South London or devouring the latest trending TV show.
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.
Yanar was our former health and wellness tester.
