15 best cotton underwear styles for ultimate comfort
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Cotton underwear: a recommendation from my doctor, gynecologist and mother that I ignored for too long because I wanted styles that an onlooker might consider ‘sexy’. However, there is nothing sexier than a healthy vagina.
Yep, choosing the right underwear and shapewear — AKA 100% cotton or as close as possible — has benefits aside from being super comfortable, helping to support the maintenance of your downstairs pH. Even the experts agree that breathable (and sustainable) is best.
“When choosing your day-to-day underwear, I’d like to speak on behalf of all vulvas and vote cotton,” says Dr Rebecca Gorgievska, doctor in obstetrics and gynaecology. “Cotton absorbs moisture and discharge, reducing local warmth and dampness — two things that yeast loves — helping to keep our vaginal pH regulated and preventing bacterial and yeast overgrowth.”
So, which styles of women's cotton underwear are best to invest in? Of course, most lingerie brands offer some form of organic women's underwear; however, I've got my top picks, considering I've spent the last six months trying various styles to find the very best.
From cheeky mid-rise styles to boxer briefs, thongs and high-waisted hipster-styles, some with lace and others seamless, read on to discover the best cotton underwear for women and people with vulvas for everyday wear — including the best underwear for working out and absorbent yet still breathable period pants — in 2026. Plus, common cotton undies FAQs, answered by experts.
Ahead, the best cotton underwear for women in 2026, approved by experts:
ASOS DESIGN 2 Pack Mila Cotton Brazilian Brief
- Material: 96% cotton, 4% elastane.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Hand wash only.
- Size range: UK 4 — 18.
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Flattering bikini cut.
- Mid-rise design.
- Depending on your membership, they can be available for next-day delivery.
Cons- Not the most extensive size range.
Lightweight Cotton Bikini 10-Pack
- Material: 91% cotton, 9% elastane.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low.
- Size range: XXS (UK 0) — 4X (30-32).
Pros & ConsPros- The most comfortable pair I've tried!
- This 10-pack overhauls your undies drawer in one fell swoop.
- Extensive size range.
Cons- A VPL is virtually guaranteed due to those thick seams.
- Material: 50% polyamide, 38% cotton, 12% elastane.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: UK 6 — 28.
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these Marks & Spencer discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Extensive size range.
- Rated, on average, 4.1/5 stars by 152 shoppers.
- 6 styles of matching bra available.
Cons- A request for some fun patterned options, please!
The Organic Cotton Mini Brief 2 Pack
- Material: 97% organic cotton, 3% elastane.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: XS (UK 6-8) — XXL (16-18).
Pros & ConsPros- Offer mid-level coverage.
- Have eco-credentials, considering they're crafted from 97% GOTS organic cotton.
- Three neutral colourway options.
Cons- Didn't sit flush against the skin like some other styles.
- Material: 57% cotton, 38% modal, 5% elastane.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: XS (UK 6) — XL (20-22).
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these Victoria's Secret discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Available in a thong or cheeky style.
- Useful selection of colours in each multipack.
- True to size.
Cons- Only 57% cotton — although the addition of modal means these are still super breathable.
- Material: 100% cotton.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: UK 6 — 28.
Pros & ConsPros- The only 100% cotton pair in this edit.
- Full brief design leaves behind a smooth silhouette.
- Soft-to-the-touch.
Cons- Limited colour options: white, black or rose quartz (nude).
5-Pack Cotton & Lace Brazilian Briefs
- Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane. Lace: 89% polyamide, 11% elastane.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: XS (UK 6) — XL (20-22).
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these H&M discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- I enjoyed the mix of ribbed and brushed cotton panties.
- That lace didn't cause any irritation even when worn all day long.
Cons- Come up small, so size up one.
Best cotton period pants
- Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane.
- Gusset: 100% polyester.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: XS (UK 6) — 3XL (26-28).
Pros & ConsPros- Made from 95% sustainably-sourced cotton certified by the Better Cotton Initiative.
- I love that hip-hugging cut.
- Save when you stock up — 33% with 3 pairs, 30% with 7.
Cons- I'd recommend sizing up one as they fit a little snug.
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- Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: XS — 4XL.
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these Calvin Klein discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Comfortable cotton stretch jersey that didn't twist, slide or chafe.
- Mid-rise waist.
- Multiple matching bras available.
Cons- Intense branding.
Best cotton underwear with next-day delivery
Sloggi Women's 24/7 Cotton Lace Briefs (Pack of 3)
- Material: 96% cotton, 4% elastane.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: UK 10 — 44.
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Flattering high cut in the leg.
- Full bottom coverage.
- Sweet lace edging details.
Cons- Slightly confusing size range.
2pk Amelia Lace Cotton Rich Shaping Knickers
- Material: 81% cotton, 12% elastane, 7% polyamide.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low.
- Size range: UK 8 — 24.
Pros & ConsPros- Offer firm tummy control, but still flattering under clothes.
- Machine wash and tumble dryer-friendly.
- True to size.
Cons- Not the prettiest pair.
- Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane.
- Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low.
- Size range: XXS (UK 0) — 4X (30-32).
Pros & ConsPros- Suitable for both lounging and sleeping.
- Double as anti-chafing shorts in summer.
- Fitted with a wide, super-stretchy waistband.
Cons- One of the pricier pairs in our edit.
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Body by M&S 4pk Cotton Rich Full Briefs
- Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane Lycra.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: UK 6 — 28.
Pros & ConsPros- Super size inclusive.
- Great value, working out at just £3 per pair.
Cons- Not seamless, meaning a VPL in some bottoms.
- Material: 89% cotton, 11% elastane.
- Gusset: 100% polyester.
- Care: Machine wash.
- Size range: XS — XXL.
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these Uniqlo discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Seamless design on the sides.
- Contouring fabric aids a close fit.
Cons- That size guide is a little tricky to work out.
Pretty Flowers Seamless Cotton Briefs
- Material: 82% cotton, 18% elastane. Lace: 46% polyester, 43% polyamide, 11% elastane.
- Gusset: 100% cotton.
- Care: Machine wash cold.
- Size range: S — XXL.
Save when you shop for the best cotton underwear with these Intimissimi discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Matching bra available.
- 7 neutral colourways.
- Save when you buy multiple pairs — 4 for 3, 7 for 5 or 10 for 7.
Cons- I personally didn't love the super low-rise cut.
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Cotton underwear FAQs, answered:
The truth is, as appealing as silk or satin feels (and looks), the best fabric for your vagina is something breathable, like cotton. It’s the least irritating fabric on skin – because, let’s face it, it’s a sensitive area down there – and is super lightweight and airy, meaning you’re less at risk of an infection.
“It's healthy to have a vaginal discharge, similar to the moisture you always have in your mouth,” Dr Kelly-Jones told Healthline. “You want your underwear to gently absorb any extra moisture,” she explains, and cotton is the fabric to do it.
This is because, to put it bluntly, yeast thrives on moisture. If you’re wearing a synthetic fabric, you’re trapping moisture and essentially creating a breeding ground for bacteria. So at the very least, a cotton lining is something we should all look for.
Doctor in obstetrics and gynaecology, Dr Rebecca Gorgievska agrees: “Cotton is a natural, breathable and moisture-wicking material which helps keep the delicate skin of our vulvas dry by allowing for air to circulate freely. Throughout the day, especially a busy one, the vulval skin produces sweat, and the vagina naturally produces discharge — this is completely normal and healthy, as long as there are no changes to the amount or odour, which is a sign to see a health professional!”
“Cotton absorbs moisture and discharge, reducing local warmth and dampness, helping to keep our vaginal pH regulated and preventing bacterial and yeast overgrowth.”
“Skin irritation can also result from prolonged local dampness or contact with synthetic fibres,” adds Rebecca. "Organic 100% cotton underwear has the added benefit of less processing with dyes or chemicals and therefore is particularly appropriate for anyone with extra sensitive skin to help prevent contact dermatitis or irritation in general.
“Synthetic materials, such as nylon or polyester, are petroleum-derived and man-made, meaning they undergo a good deal of chemical processing, which can result in skin irritation. Whilst these are good materials to be worn during exercise, as they stay drier in the short term and wick moisture away, they aren’t very breathable and can contribute to irritation and infections, meaning they should be changed out of promptly after finishing with physical activity.
"Overall, they’re good for the short term, but not ideal as an all-day go-to choice.”
Meet the experts:
| Dr Alyse Kelly-Jones | Board certified OB-GYN. |
| Dr Rebecca Gorgievska | Doctor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. |
How I test the best cotton underwear:
It really is as simple as wearing a pair multiple times during a month — AKA at various points in my cycle — to see how they fare. This includes wearing them to work out, sleep, commute to the office and while chilling at home.
For all styles, from cheeky and midi briefs to barely-there thongs, I scored them against the following criteria:
| Functionality | Did they keep me dry and odour-free? Did I have any issues in terms of slipping, twisting or chafing? |
| Design | Are they aesthetic and comfortable? How many options do I have in terms of colour and pattern? What are they made from: 100% organic cotton or a cotton-blend? |
| Price point | Would I be willing to spend that much per pair? Are they good quality? |
| Delivery | How quickly did they arrive, and what were the associated costs? |
Unsurprisingly, only the pairs that impressed made it into this edit. However, I also tried the following, which sadly didn't meet my standards:
- Marks & Spencer's 7 Pack Pure Cotton Miami Knickers, £11 — Great value for money, but left an intense VPL that was visible even through jeans.
- Cou Cou's The High Rise: 5-Pack, WAS £140 NOW £126 — I found these super comfortable and thought they were pretty, too, but I wasn't convinced they were worth their hefty price tag.
In terms of what I'm currently testing, stay tuned for these reviews:
Why you can trust me:
I've been reviewing functional fashion, activewear, and wellness products, including cotton underwear, sports bras, and period pants, for almost three years — that's one year at Women's Health and 17 months at Glamour. During that time, I've seen countless trends and advancements, as well as a boom in our options.
To ensure I am an authority on all things wellness and menstrual health, I attend press launches, read the latest journals, and regularly interview sportwear designers, gynaecologists, women's health experts and brand founders. I also personally review as many new releases as possible. As such, you could say I'm more clued up on the best cotton underwear than your average online shopper.
