The Best Period Swimwear for Every Flow and Swim Style
Don't let your period derail a beach day. These stylish swimsuits are designed to help you swim and relax with confidence.
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Your period shows up when it wants to, so if it happens to coincide with a beach day, it's pretty much unavoidable. Period swimwear offers a solution: Built-in absorbent layers are designed to help manage menstrual flow in and out of the water so you can stay comfortable and confident during your cycle.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly evaluate both menstrual products and the best swimwear brands. We have tested more than 50 menstrual products and over 100 swimsuit styles in recent years, including over a dozen period swimsuits. To narrow down our recommendations, we consulted Lab results from our durability tests, as well as feedback from consumer testers who reported on absorbency, comfort, fit, and appearance. Or best overall pick from Knix, looks like a simple yet chic one-piece, but it has the absorbency power of three tampons.
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Knix Leakproof Classic One Piece Swimsuit
- Best value: Savvi Wear Leakproof Bikini Bottoms
- Best for laps: Beautikini Period Swimwear One Piece Leakproof Swimsuit
- Best swim shorts: Scarlet Leakproof Surf Short
Best Deal
Pros
- Flattering maillot design
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
- Built-in bra and removable cups for support and function
- Extensive bra-cup sizing
Cons
- Removable cups are prone to folding
Knix's period products continue to outperform others in our Textiles Lab evaluations, and the brand's line of period swimwear is no exception. The Leakproof Classic One-Piece is the OG style that shifted the entire category of swimsuits.
It absorbs up to three tampons of menstrual flow for protection at the pool on even heavier days. The top has a built-in bra for support with removable cups, and there are adjustable straps for a better fit. Standard sizes fit A to DD cups, while "+" sizes are designed for cup sizes E to G. You can also opt for the "Essential" version if you don't need the period lining (and want to save a few dollars).
RELATED: Best Period Underwear
| Sizes | XS–XXXXL+ |
| Absorbency | 1–3 regular tampons |
Pros
- High-rise design for comfort during period
- Affordable price
- Extended gusset offers extra leak protection
Cons
- Extended gusset may feel bulky
Starting at just under $30, Savvi period swimwear is one of the most affordable styles we've come across. These bottoms have a simple design that's easy to coordinate with your favorite bikini or tankini top and it can absorb up to three tampons worth. Our style experts appreciate the high-rise waist, which comes in handy when you feel bloated during your period. The bottom offers full coverage and have an extended gusset to give you extra protection, though it can make things feel a bit bulkier.
| Sizes | XS–3XL |
| Absorbency | 3 tampons |
Pros
- Trendy ribbed material
- Good coverage for water sports
- More modest option
Cons
- Only offers light protection; may need to be paired with a tampon or menstrual cup
Whether you prefer more modest bottoms or are planning to be active at the beach, a pair of swim shorts is a great option for additional coverage that stays in place while surfing, swimming, or doing other water activities.
They're only available in black, but they're made with a trendy ribbed material for a textured look that can be a bit more forgiving. Note that the liner only has the absorbency equivalent to one tampon, so you may need to pair the shorts with a tampon or menstrual cup for added protection.
| Sizes | 6/XS–16/XXL |
| Absorbency | 1 tampon |
Pros
- Racerback straps won't slip off shoulders
- 15 color options
- Full coverage design so you can move freely without worry
Cons
- Has a more athletic aesthetic
"Swimming can be a great low-impact form of exercise to keep you active while on your period, as long as you are comfortable with it," says Nutrition & Fitness Lab Director Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., NASM-CPT. Sassos adds that swimming "may even relieve menstrual cramps since the activity can improve blood circulation and release endorphins."
When swimming for exercise, you need a snug suit that offers full coverage so it stays put while you're moving in the water. This Beautikini has an distinctly athletic look, but has everything you need in a training suit, plus added leakproof protection. We appreciate the wide straps that won't dig into your shoulders.
Good for competitive swimmers or anyone who likes to be active in the water, the one-piece has a stylish racerback silhouette with a keyhole so you'll never have to worry about straps slipping off your shoulders. It comes in 15 colors, though the body of the suit is black in all variations.
| Sizes | XXS–XL |
| Absorbency | 3 tampons |
Pros
- Fully lined for no show-through
- Secure racerback design won't slip off shoulders
- Cups are removable for different looks and support
Cons
- Bottom is not as full coverage as other suits
Period swimwear is a great option for tweens and teens who may not be comfortable wearing tampons or menstrual cups. This sleek, fully-lined one-piece swimsuit from KT by Knix can be worn during swim meets, but is stylish enough to wear on vacation. We appreciate the wide racerback straps that stay put while you swim and like that the cups are removable if your teen prefers to take them out.
She can choose from nine colors, including black, aquamarine, and a fun ombre pattern. If there's any downside, it's that while the brand says the bum coverage is "medium," it does skew a little cheekier than a true full-coverage option. The full collection of KT by Knix styles is designed specifically to fit teens, so be sure to review the brand's size chart before buying.
When we evaluated the brand's swim shorts in the Lab, we were very impressed by the construction, including the and the secure mesh material around the leakproof gusset and the sturdy seams for a snug fit.
| Sizes | XS–XXL |
| Absorbency | Around 2 super tampons |
Pros
- Trendy cut doesn't resemble typical period swimwear
- Less bulky design
- Good option for heavier days
Cons
- Some may need to size down, according to brand
No one would ever guess these mid-rise, moderate-coverage bikini bottoms from Modibodi were period swimwear, but it can actually hold four tampons worth. You can mix and match your favorite swim tops with this black bottom that is fully lined. This hip-hugging style is also less bulky compared to other period swimwear and underwear we have seen on the market. If you're between sizes, the brand does recommend sizing down, since a snug fit is essential for leak protection.
Testers who tried Modibodi period wear found them to be comfortable and absorbent without feeling like they were wearing something akin to a diaper, which can sometimes be the case with certain pads or period underwear.
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| Sizes | 4/XS–14/2XL |
| Absorbency | 4 tampons |
Pros
- Flattering, deep neckline
- Adjustable straps to customize the torso fit
- Comes in sizes for small and large breasts
Cons
- Not ideal for heavier days
This Deep V One Piece is the most fashionable period swimsuit we have come across in our search. The plunging neckline and defined bust add a sexy flair that we love—because a nice confidence boost during your period is a plus. Similar to our best overall period swimsuit from Knix, this one-piece also features adjustable straps for a better fit through the torso, as well as inclusive sizing for both small and large busts.
One GH analyst who regularly wears period swimwear from Knix shared, "It’s just so flattering and comfy, and I feel confident with it on." Just note: Since it only holds up to one tampon worth of blood, it's best suited for lighter days or as backup with a menstrual cup or tampon.
| Sizes | XS–XXXXL+ |
| Absorbency | 1 tampon |
Pros
- Range of vibrant colors beyond basic black
- Optional extra pad for heavy days
- Long-line top offers more coverage
Cons
- Can only choose one size for top and bottom
This two-piece set includes a longline tank for a bit more coverage (especially helpful for water sports) and tie-detail bottoms that feel more stylish than most basic period swimwear. The built-in absorbent liner holds up to 3 tampons’ worth of flow, or up to 6 with an optional double-sided pad that fits discreetly in a built-in pocket, if you choose to use it. The suit is also designed with leakproof Dri-Tech mesh to help prevent front, side, and back leaks.
We like that the liner is made from organic cotton, and that the suit is one of the few that comes in a range of vibrant shades like red and purple, and even stripes and polka dots. However, you have to choose the same size for the top and bottom, which can be troublesome if your sizing isn't consistent.
| Sizes | XXS–XL |
| Absorbency | Up to 3 tampons |
How we choose the best period swimwear
In the Good Housekeeping Institute, our Textiles Lab pros analyze period products of all kinds, including tampons, pads, menstrual cups, discs, and period underwear. Over the past few years, we have tested over 50 period products, rating each for properties like absorbency, fluid retention, and even shedding. We've also shared period products with over 200 consumer testers who have provided feedback on comfort, absorbency, and fit.
Along with testing period products, our analysts regularly evaluate swimwear and have reviewed over 100 styles in our Lab. We consider style, construction, care, and more. We also share swimsuits with consumer testers and analysts who wear them during their beach and pool outings and share their thoughts on style and appearance, as well as comfort and fit.
Some of our picks come from brands whose period products or swimwear have performed well in our Lab tests and among consumer testers. Others were selected based on expert review of materials, fit, and absorbency claims.
What to look for when shopping for the best period swimwear
✔️ Absorbency: Like other menstrual products, period swimwear is available with different absorbency levels. The listed absorbency level is how much menstrual flow the absorbent core can hold, but leaks are still possible (especially when moving around and going in and out of the water).
✔️ Style: Period swimwear is available in a variety of swim styles, including one-piece swimsuits, high-waisted bikinis, and traditional tie bikinis. You should choose a style you like and feel comfortable in. That said, period swimwear is still an emerging category, so there are fewer styles and color options available compared to regular swimwear—but if you like black, you'll have plenty to choose from!
✔️ Sizing: With period swimwear and period underwear, a proper fit is crucial to prevent leaks. It should feel snug and secure to ensure it stays put. Our picks are available in a range of size options, from XXS through 4XL, as well as teen sizing too.
How does period swimwear work?
Despite the long-standing myth, the water pressure from swimming doesn’t stop your period—it may only slow flow temporarily, says Nutrition & Fitness Lab Director Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., NASM-CPT. That's what makes period swimwear so useful. While it might look just like your favorite bathing suit from the outside, period swimwear has a hidden absorbent lining or gusset inside. The gussets are constructed with layers of material that absorb menstrual flow and keep it trapped in place. An internal layer of the gusset tends to be waterproof or water-repellent to help prevent leaks while you swim.
Some period swimsuits are more absorbent than others, so be sure to review the swimsuit's absorbency before buying. Most period swimsuits can hold between two to three tampons of menstrual flow. Swimsuits with greater absorbency are ideal if you have a heavy period or are spending a long day at the pool. A swimsuit with less absorbency can be used as backup to other period products like tampons or menstrual cups, or you can wear it on days when your flow is light or spotting.
Can you wear a pad with period swimwear?
No, you shouldn't pair a pad with period swimwear. Like period underwear, period swimwear has a built-in absorbent core that acts like a menstrual pad to soak up menstrual flow. If you add a pad to your swimwear, it'll likely feel quite bulky and uncomfortable.
Besides, most menstrual pads have wings to secure them to your underwear, making the pad visible outside your swimsuit. For backup protection, you can use a tampon or menstrual cup while wearing period swimwear.
The exception is if your swimsuit comes with an optional special pad like the one from Ruby Love that's intended for swimming.
How do you wash period swimwear?
We recommend following the garment's care label to ensure it stays in great condition. High heat can damage spandex (which is a common swimwear material), so it's best to avoid high temperatures in the washer or dryer. To avoid staining your other clothes in the wash, we recommend rinsing the swimwear first before putting it in the washer.
How long can you wear a period swimsuit before a leak happens?
The swimwear's absorbency will help determine how long you can wear the swimsuit before you'll need to change. The brand will usually relay the suit's absorbency in terms of tampons' worth of fluid. If you're using additional protection like a tampon or menstrual cup, you can wear period swimwear for longer. And a word of caution: Avoid sitting in a wet bathing suit (period swimwear or regular) for a long time, as this can lead to yeast infections.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Emma Seymour is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. Since joining GH in 2018, she has tested period underwear, tampons, and menstrual cups in the Lab and with consumer testers. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience, particularly focused on athletic wear like bathing suits.
Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home & apparel reviews analyst and has covered almost every style of swimsuit on the market. For this article, she used her relative expertise, adding input and picks from popular brands online or ones from brands that we've tested and been impressed by.
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