9 best period pants for 2026, tested by Glamour's wellness writer
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Before we dive into my favourite period pants, let me say this: nothing ruins my mood like the early arrival of my period. Not because I didn't appreciate a regular signal of my fertility, but rather because it means I have to invest in emergency sanitary products. You know, plastic tampons and sanitary pads that will likely live on this planet longer than I, while also effectively throwing off my pH.
Seriously, one tampon may contain the same amount of plastic as five shopping bags. Over a lifetime, that’s the equivalent of 57,000 supermarket shoppers, each of which can take up to 1,000 years to break down in a landfill.
For those interested, I made the switch to period pants three years ago and haven't looked back since. No more asking my colleagues to check my butt for leaks, or shoving a pad up my sleeve before running to the office loos to avoid that anxiety-inducing gush.
Need more convincing? “They offer a simpler, more comfortable, and more reliable way to manage your period,” says Linda Šejdová, founder of Snuggs. "Unlike disposable pads and tampons, they help reduce waste by removing the need for single-use products.
“Designed to be leak-proof, period pants eliminate the need for back-ups or frequent changes throughout the day, making them perfect for busy, on-the-go lifestyles. They’re also softer and more comfortable than traditional alternatives, helping you feel confident, secure, and at ease.”
Sold? Great, because the next step is introducing you to what I consider to be the best period pants for 2026. And you can trust my verdict, considering I have tested more than 50 pairs over the last three years (36 periods, to be exact), from absorbent thongs to high-coverage cotton underwear lined with a waterproof inner.
So, whether you're seeking full briefs for super heavy days, light flow-friendly thongs, or even period pants for teens and period swimwear ahead of your 2026 holidays, I've got you sorted. Plus, I've had experts answer common FAQs below, too.
- The best period pants for women and people who menstruate in 2026
- Period pants FAQs, answered
- What are the benefits of using period pants over disposable products?
- What are the disadvantages of period pants?
- Do period pants last all day?
- Are period pants hygienic and safe?
- How do you wash period pants?
- Meet the experts
- How I test the best period pants
- Why you can trust me
What are period pants?
“Period pants are just like your day-to-day underwear but with the added benefit of being able to absorb your period blood, so you can be free to get on with your day,” Raut said. Period underwear often has an absorbent, moisture-wicking and odour-eliminating gusset and is available in a plethora of styles to suit your flow. You can bleed freely in them for up to 12 hours, whether you're going to work, to the gym — or even for a swim, thanks to the development of period swimwear.
“A common misconception is that period pants leak more easily than pads,” adds Unsworth. "In reality, if you choose the right absorbency for your flow, they are highly reliable, and unlike pads, they don’t slip out of place.
“Another myth is that they are unhygienic. In fact, the moisture-wicking layers keep skin dry and help prevent irritation, while modern fabrics are breathable and designed to resist bacterial growth. After rinsing in cold water, they can be machine-washed like other clothing, making them both safe and easy to care for.”
Ahead, the best period pants for women and people who menstruate in 2026:
When to wear them: Day or night.
Absorbency: Moderate; 30ml = up to 6 tampons.
Sizes: XS (UK 8) – 3XL (UK 20).
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.When my only complaint is a lack of alternative design options, I know I'm onto a good pair of period pants. Though I can also confirm that this Modibodi pair over-deliver in terms of substance — so much so that they're my most called-on, often worn twice in a cycle if I can get these washed and dried in time.
Both leakproof and extremely comfortable, it's no surprise these are one of the brand's bestsellers. Made from natural, breathable organic cotton, the mid-rise briefs keep me cool and dry — AKA no more quick changes in the work loos, or uncomfortable itching around the leg opening. Talking of, the low-leg cut and full bottom coverage also means they're comfortable when worn beneath jeans, dresses and joggers. True to size and durable, these are my first recommendation to all my eco-conscious pals.
Save when you shop the best period pants with these Modibodi discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Available in three absorbencies: Light, Moderate and Super.
- Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning they're free from harmful substances.
- Inclusive size range and fit true to size.
Cons- Do leave behind a fairly obvious VPL.
Medium Flow Modal Period Pants
When to wear them: Day or night.
Absorbency: Moderate; 18ml = 3 tampons.
Sizes: UK 6 — 18.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Boux Avenue has long been my go-to for everyday thongs and (less frequently worn but just as loved) lace numbers. But the brand has now launched two styles of period pants — a heavy-flow high-wasted brief and a medium-flow cheeky.
Having worn the latter on days three and four of my last cycle, I can confirm they're ideal for those days of intermittent, lightweight bleeding. And despite housing multiple absorbent layers, they're super thin — there's no way they can be fairly compared to a nappy. I'd say they fit true to size, but I did size up once to give me a little extra room around my waist.
The modal fabric is soft to the touch, plus the lace detailing makes them feel even less like period pants — in fact, on the days I want nothing but big, comfy knickers, I'll likely be calling on these.
Save when you shop the best period pants with these Boux Avenue discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Made from ultra-soft modal fabric.
- Bloat-friendly elasticated waistband.
- Washable and reusable for up to 2 years.
Cons- Just one colour option.
SmileyWorld X Modibodi Teen Hipster Boyleg and Hipster Boyshort 2 Pack
When to wear them: Day.
Absorbency: Moderate; 30ml = or up to 6 tampons' worth of blood, urine or sweat.
Sizes: Y08-10 / Y10-12 / Y12-14 / Y14-16 / Y16-18.
Colours: Bubbly Blossom Pink.
Machine washable? Yes.Tweens get all the same anxieties about their period and potential spills as the rest of us, although perhaps a tad more intense, considering they haven't got experience on their side. Thankfully, these period pants — one of multiple practical multi-packs for your mini-me — offer protection without any unnecessary bulk. Crafted from super breathable organic cotton and fitted with an elasticated waist to accommodate any hormone-driven water retention, they tick every box. Plus, there's no denying that a limited edition print adds a level of excitement about your next bleed. Just me?
Pros & ConsPros- Twin-pack, featuring both a boyleg pant and a boyshort.
- Crafted from super soft, breathable organic cotton that's grown free of pesticides.
- Merino wool gusset is breathable and temperature-regulating.
- Black-coloured lining prevents unwanted stains.
Cons- That age-based size chart isn't super useful.
When to wear them: The beginning or end of your period, or when spotting.
Absorbency: Light; 20mls = spotting and discharge.
Sizes: XXS (UK 6) – 2XL (18).
Colours: Black and Chestnut.
Machine washable? Yes.Yep, Snuggs has joined the absorbent pants brigade, and I'm grateful, considering the brand's period thong is one of the most comfortable I've tried to date. Typically, I tend to wear this style on the last two days of my period, when my bleeding can be intermittent. But even during a surprise resurgence, these kept me dry and odour-free. I also love the fact that they're crafted from 77% recycled materials.
Even better, though, is the fact that there's a Chestnut option I can layer until lighter jeans and dresses come summer (once back in stock, obvs). But the factor that has me recommending the brand to all my friends? The semi-regular discounts, which take the price of this pair down to less than £18.
Pros & ConsPros- Thinner and lighter than normal underwear (1.5mm).
- Naturally antibacterial & breathable to prevent odours.
- Made from materials certified by CoolmaxFreshFX standards, which guarantee their health safety.
Cons- Best suited to extremely light flows or spotting.
Swimwear Reversible Multiway Top & Hi-Leg Bottom
When to wear them: While swimming on light to medium days.
Absorbency: Light; 20ml = Up to 4 tampons.
Sizes: XS (UK 8) – 4XL (22).
Colours: Poinciana.
Machine washable? Yes.Period-proof bikini bottoms? Yep, I was sceptical too. Nervous, actually. I was on holiday with my friends in the South of France, begrudgingly on my period, and desperate to get involved in water sports/swimming races without fear of leaking. The perfect time to put them to the test, some might say, but that didn't stop the fear.
The first thing worth noting is that they're lightweight and thin all the way round — plus, thanks to that really high leg, they are really flattering. Unique to this style, though, is that two-layer gusset: while one absorbs up to 20ml of blood or urine, the second waterproof layer gives you extra peace of mind.
For context, Modibodi stocks a host of absorbent swimwear styles, from one-piece swimsuits to colourful bikini briefs, which you could wear beneath your normal bikini for a bit of extra coverage. No need to miss out on all those trend-led designs from your favourite swimwear brands, after all.
Pros & ConsPros- Size inclusive, available in an XS (UK 8) — 4XL (UK 22) — and you can order different sizes in the top and bottom.
- That multway top can be more in more than 6 ways.
- Made with recycled nylon and elastane – AKA durable with excellent stretch and shape retention.
- Knickers come with a comfy, wide waistband and flattering leg line.
Cons- An investment.
3pk Heavy Absorbency Period High Leg Knickers
When to wear them: For sleeping, snoozing and lounging around the house.
Absorbency: Super; 50ml = Up to 10 tampons.
Sizes: UK 4 — 22.
Colours: Black & Leopard Mix and Raisin.
Machine washable? Yes.Working out at just £5.30 a pair, there's no denying that Marks & Spencer's period pant multi-packs are incredible value. But the high-rise absorbent undies are also some of the most comfortable in my collection. Super stretchy, they don't dig into my mid-period bloat, and I love that they come finished with a pretty lace waistband. I should flag that, despite being labelled as ‘heavy absorbency’, I find these last me about four hours on my heaviest days before I begin to leak through. Otherwise, I simply layer them with a reusable pad.
Save when you shop the best period pants with these Marks & Spencer discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- I'll say it again — this multi-pack works out at just £5.30 a pair.
- True to size, but they also stretch to accommodate any bloating.
- That leopard-print pair doubles as a neutral and works well under lighter trousers or dresses.
Cons- Not the most absorbent option in our lineup.
When to wear them: Heavy flow days or overnight.
Absorbency: Super; 50ml = up to 10 tampons.
Sizes: XS (UK 8) – 6XL (UK 26).
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.My pet peeve with some styles of period pants? When the waistband sits across my bloated stomach, which is both irritating comfort-wise, but also because they then roll down to meet my jeans. Thankfully, the lace waistband of Modibodi's limited edition design means these are super comfortable, but also sit flush against the skin — ideal if wearing something more form-fitting where I don't want a VPL or VWL (visible waistband line) on show.
Yet again, I'm calling for more colourways. But, worthy of praise is the brand's patented leak-proof technology – the natural, renewable and super-soft merino wool meant I didn't feel damp once, which is not usually the case on my heaviest days.
Pros & ConsPros- Made with natural, renewable and super-soft merino wool that absorbs quickly.
- Extensive size range, available in an XS (UK 8) – 6XL (UK 26).
- Fitted with a scalloped lace waistband that's soft, comfortable and flattering.
Cons- Just one colourway when you opt for super absorbent.
When to wear them: For sleeping, snoozing and lounging around the house.
Absorbency: Super; 50ml = Up to 10 tampons.
Sizes: XS (UK 8) – 3XL (20).
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.All hail Modibodi for the release of these period-proof shorts, which have been designed to be worn under dresses, loose-fitting clothes or pyjamas when lounging around the house. They offer full coverage, while remaining discreet and preventing leaks — or messy bed sheets, even during my heaviest days. That's due to the breathable 3mm lining, which is both absorbent and antimicrobial, preventing the growth of bacteria and unwanted odours. Plus, I found they effectively doubled as anti-chafing shorts, too!
Pros & ConsPros- Organic cotton material stopped me from overheating.
- Black-coloured lining stops unwanted stains.
- No obvious branding, meaning they could pass for classic boxers.
Cons- Personally, I would have preferred a high-rise waist, as these have a tendency to roll down in the night.
When to wear them: Day.
Absorbency: Moderate; 4 tampons.
Sizes: XS (UK 6) – 3XL (UK 26-28).
Colours: Black with a rainbow waistband.
Machine washable? Yes.My pet peeve when it comes to periods? Having to avoid half of my wardrobe for a week for fear of an aggressive panty line. Thankfully, the slim seams of Here We Flow's period pants mean I can wear leggings, flares and elasticated jeans all cycle long without giving away my chosen method of protection.
But they're not all style and no substance. “Here We Flo’s Period Pants hold up to four regular tampons’ worth of menstrual blood and are made from soft, breathable Better Cotton,” adds Susan Allen-Augustin, co-founder of Here We Flo. "They’re designed to move with you and keep you feeling fresh and dry all day or night, so you don’t need to wear anything else with them — just pop them on and go.
“They’re especially great for anyone with sensitive skin, as there are no harsh chemicals or synthetic materials. Or as Flo likes to say, no drama. No bad vibes.” Preach.
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.
Period pants FAQs, answered:
Period pants have many advantages — one being that you can wear the best period pants all day without worrying. “They are especially useful for overnight wear, as the absorbent area is often larger than with pads but without the bulk,” says Unsworth. “And for those with irregular cycles, period pants can also be worn like regular underwear, meaning you’re protected if your period starts unexpectedly. With a range of absorbency levels available, you can tailor them to your flow throughout the cycle.”
But switching to period pants can also save you money. “Whilst they require a bigger initial investment, the average woman will spend around £120 on disposable period pads in just two years, but with reusable period pants, the cost is no more than £75,” adds Ruby.
As previously mentioned, leak-proof pants are also a more sustainable choice. “We’re in the midst of an environmental emergency when it comes to the impact of single-use plastic,” details Ruby. “In fact, around 91% of the 380 million metric tons of plastic that is produced globally every year isn’t recycled. The environmental savings of switching to a more sustainable period product like reusable pants or pads are vast. Each of us has the power to divert 9,600 plastic-filled sanitary waste."
Since you're buying something reusable and washable, period pants require quite a high initial investment. They're also still, at the time of writing, classified as a “clothing” product – rather than a menstrual one – which means they're subject to 20% tax. Marks and Spencer's Say Pants To The Tax campaign aims to change that – and some retailers like TESCO now cover the tax for you.
expensive upfront compared to disposable products, and they require regular washing and proper care to maintain their effectiveness. Additionally, some users may find them less convenient for heavy flow days or extended wear.
"This depends on how heavy your flow is,” Ruby said. “You can wear our pants for up to 12 hours, but we always say, you know your flow best.” Take WUKA's High-Waisted Stretch Seamless Heavy Flow Pants, for example. They are designed to hold three tampons' worth of blood, so consider how long it takes you to get through three tampons and go from there. Personally? I have a medium flow and manage around eight hours in one pair of period pants before I start feeling uncomfortable.
The duration that period pants can be worn depends on the individual's flow and the specific product's absorbency level. On lighter flow days, the best period pants can last all day without needing to be changed. However, on heavier flow days, they may need to be changed more frequently to prevent leaks and maintain comfort. It's important to choose period pants with the appropriate absorbency level for your needs to ensure optimal performance throughout the day.
Absolutely," says Linda Šejdová, founder of Snuggs. "Period underwear is designed to be worn safely for eight to 12 hours, and they last up to 2 years. They’re made from recycled nylon and feature an absorbent layer of 100% cotton, creating a breathable, quick-drying fabric that effectively absorbs moisture. This helps prevent bacteria build-up and keeps you feeling fresh and comfortable.
Talking specifically about Snuggs absorbent underwear, she adds: “All materials meet CoolmaxFreshFX standards, ensuring high levels of hygiene, health safety, and long-lasting freshness.”
“With the right care, a good pair of period pants can last for years,” adds Allen-Augustin. “After each use, rinse them in cold water, pop them in the machine at 30°C, and air dry — no bleach, no fabric softener, and no tumble dryer. Just rinse, wash, repeat.”
Meet the experts:
| Ruby Raut | CEO and co-founder of WUKA. |
| Dr Susanna Unsworth | INTIMINA’s intimate health care expert and doctor specialising in menopause, women’s health and breast cancer. |
| Susan Allen-Augustin | Co-founder of Here We Flo. |
| Linda Šejdová | Founder of snuggs. |
How I test the best period pants:
At Glamour, it is of utmost importance that we provide our readers with independent, honest and trustworthy reviews. We're committed to bringing our readers unbiased and accurate information, recommending not only the best period pants overall but also the best for your needs.
I have personally tried every pair in this edit, alongside a host more that didn't meet my standards. I wore them for several months and at various points in my cycle, but also while working out, lounging and commuting to the office.
For all styles, from cheeky and midi briefs to absorbent thongs, I scored them against the following criteria:
| Functionality | Did they keep me dry and odour-free? Did they absorb as much liquid as they claim? Did I have any issues with leaking? |
| Design | Are they aesthetic and comfortable? How many options do I have in terms of colour and pattern? What are they made from (organic cotton or elastane for extra sustainability creds? |
| 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? |
But, because we're all different in terms of our body shape, flow and favoured underwear cut, I also asked my fellow Glamour editors to weigh in on which brands and styles they love, which influenced which I tested for myself.
Unsurprisingly, only the period pants that impressed made it into this edit. However, I also tried the following, which didn't meet my standards:
- Uniqlo's AIRism Period Pants, £14.90 — limited complaints, aside from the fact that the brand can't seem to keep them in stock. Currently only available in sizes S and M.
- Snuggs' Classic Period Underwear, WAS £36, NOW £21.60 — While I loved the colourway, I found this style to be hot and a bit bulky. I had an obvious VPL in all trousers. Although, a great, leakproof option for sleeping.
In terms of what I'm currently testing, stay tuned for these reviews:
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Why you can trust me:
I've been reviewing menstrual health and sexual wellness products, including period pads, menstrual cups, sex toys and condoms for the past two years — that's one year at Women's Health, and for 18 months at Glamour. During that time, I've seen countless trends and advancements, including a boom in our options and the emergence of more streamlined styles.
To ensure I am an authority on all things menstrual health, I regularly attend press days, read the latest journals, interview gynaecologists, women's health experts, and brand founders, and personally review as many new launches as possible. As such, you could say I'm more clued up on the best emerging brands and new releases than your average period pant-wearer.
But I also wouldn't recommend anything to our readers that I wouldn't recommend to a friend. I made the switch to period pants back in December 2023, sick of spending a small fortune on unsustainable disposable tampons. I've tried more than 50 different styles, including period thongs and period swimwear, from various brands including WUKA, Modibodi, Lunation, Step One, Boux Avenue and Amazon. In terms of flow, my cycle usually lasts for five days, and is heaviest on two and three. By day four, I'm usually only spotting, which is when I rely on light-absorbency options or rewearable liners.
