13 best period pants for 2026, tried and tested by Glamour's editors
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So your new years' resolution is to be more sustainable, which involves a switch to period pants. Fab, because not only are they better for the planet, but they're genuinely more enjoyable to use too. Trust me — I made the switch from single-use tampons and plastic pads that (intermittently) stuck to my knickers three years ago, and haven't used a disposable sanitary product since.
The perks of period pants? “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.” Exactly what we need during a week of cramps, mood swings and cravings.
And in case you need a tad more convincing: 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.
Sold? Great, because the next step is introducing you to what I consider to be the best period pants in 2026. And you can trust my verdict, considering I have used every cycle for the last three years to test a variety of period pant styles.
So, whether you're seeking full briefs for your heaviest 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 popped answers to common FAQs down below, too.
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, with the help of Senior Commerce Editor, Sophie Cockett, have personally tried every pair in this edit, alongside a host more than didn't meet my standards. We wore them for several months and at various points in our style, but also while working out, lounging and commuting to the office.
For all styles, from cheeky and midi briefs to absorbent thongs, we 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? |
So, it goes without saying, really, but we’re confident this edit of the best period pants will serve you. Fill your boots.
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 14 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 gyncologists, women's health experts and brand founders, as well as 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 more than your average period pant-wearer.
But I also wouldn't recommend anything to our readers that I wouldn't to a friend. I personally 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 30 different styles, including period thongs and period swimwear. In terms of flow, my lasts on average, for five days, and is heaviest on days two and three. By day four, I'm usually only spotting, so rely on light absorbency options or liners.
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: Light to medium flow days.
Absorbency: Light; 20ml = up to 4 tampons.
Sizes: XS (UK 8) – 2XL (UK 18).
Colours: Provense Pink, Desert Floral Pink, Cassia Pink Beige and Black.
Machine washable? Yes.We've come a long way in the last few years, with black and beige no longer your only options when it comes to period pants. In fact, Modibodi offers no less than three colourways per style. Although I'm not into pairs with style but no substance. Thankfully, these full briefs deliver. In fact, they're one of my most called-on pairs, thanks to their incredible comfort and reliability in terms of leaks — or lack of.
Made from natural, renewable and super-soft merino wool, these Modibodi bestsellers keep me cool and dry all day long. No more quick changes in the work loos, or uncomfortable itching. The high-waist, low-leg cut and full bottom coverage also means they're comfortable to wear under jeans, dresses and joggers when lounging at home.
Do I wish they hadn't created such an obvious VPL? Maybe, but otherwise I have no complaints.
Save when you shop the best period pants with these Modibodi discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning they're free from harmful substances.
- Inclusive size range and fit true to size.
- We love that limited edition floral print.
Cons- Do leave behind a fairly obvious VPL.
Medium Flow Modal Period Pants
When to wear them: Day or night.
Absorbency: Medium flow; 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 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 thighs and 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.
Underwear style: Midi brief.
Absorbency: Heavy, holding up to 5 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 2XS — S / S — L.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes."I gifted this to my teen cousin earlier this year, before she started menstruating, as there's nothing worse than being caught without the necessary supplies.
"She likes wearing the Teen Stretch Seamless Period Underwear at night, as it's way more comfortable than a disposable pad and gives her more peace of mind. But she also really appreciated the addition of a Heat Patch to soothe painful cramps, and the Two-Pocket Changing Bag, which she keeps in her school bag in case of a quick change.
“Personally, I was most fond of the book — specifically, Sophie Elkan’s Girls’ Guide to Growing Up Great — which explains things in a really unintimidating way, limiting the need for frantic Googling or panicked texts to her older cousin.”
Pros & ConsPros- The set includes one or three pairs of Teen Period Underwear, a Two Pocket Changing Bag, a Heat Patch, Sophie Elkan’s Girls’ Guide to Growing Up Great book, a pack of Intimate Wipes, and a period positive sticker set.
- Great value for money — plus the pants should last up to two years.
- The Teen Stretch Seamless Period Underwear don't cause an obvious VPL, plus the mid-height gusset prevents leaks.
Cons- A request for more print and colour options, please.
When to wear them: Every day, alongside other period care products, or at the tail-end of your period.
Sizes: One size.
Colours: Green.
Machine washable? Yes.Technically, these aren't period pants, but rather reusable liners to be worn as a backup to your menstrual cup or every day as an alternative to single-use liners. Yep, bid goodbye to sticky adhesives ruining your favourite undies, as these stay put with the help of double metal poppers.
While that highly absorbent mid-layer has odour control powers — that's the freshMNT technology — the bottom is crafted from cotton jersey, which feels super soft against the skin. Essentially, there's no need to worry about discomfort in any form when wearing one of these all day.
Save when you shop the best period pants with these Holland & Barrett discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Highly absorbent mid-layer with odour control, using freshMNT technology.
- Vegan certified, meaning nothing the brand uses in the making of its products is animal-derived.
- The brand is keen on carbon-insetting, investing in renewable energy and regenerative farming.
Cons- Just one very dark colourway.
When to wear them: Heavy flow days or overnight.
Absorbency: Super; 50ml = up to 10 tampons.
Sizes: XS (UK 8) – 6XL (UK 26).
Colours: Provense Pink, Desert Floral Pink, Cassia Pink Beige and 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.
I love the brown colourway, which meant these looked just like any other high-coverage knickers in my drawer. But, most worthy of my 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.
- Super 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- Limited-edition colour – only available while stocks last!
- 6/13
When to wear them: Day.
Absorbency: Moderate; up to 6 tampons' worth of blood, urine or sweat.
Sizes: Y08-10 / Y10-12 / Y12-14 / Y14-16 / Y16-18.
Colours: Jellybean Pink, Violet, Spearmint, Melon Green, Bubble Blue and Black.
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 five cuts purpose-made 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.
Pros & ConsPros- New boyleg shape – sits between a Hipster Bikini and Boyshort.
- Patented black Merino wool lining controls odour and stops unwanted stains.
- 6 colourways to choose from — the most of any pair in our edit.
Cons- That age-based size chart isn't super useful.
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.
When to wear them: At any point in your period.
Absorbency: Heavy = day one and two.
Sizes: XXS – 4XL.
Colours: Cherry, Powder Blue, Black.
Machine washable? Yes.My granny pants have a special place in my heart (and my underwear drawer), but that doesn't mean I don't sometimes want to feel sexy — even when I'm on my period.
Now I hate to have to rely on an age-old cliché here, but on opening my snuggs delivery, it really was love at first sight. I couldn't believe how PRETTY my new absorbent pants were. Crafted from cherry red lace, they look just like my best lingerie sets from the likes of Boux Avenue and Lounge — except, thanks to that four-layer gusset, these hold up to four (!) tampons' worth of menstrual fluid.
In terms of comfort (because that's key when you've got a bloated belly), I had no complaints. The hip-hugging cut sat comfortably under joggers or jeans, and the lace didn't irritate my sensitive skin. My only request: Can we have more options, both in terms of style and absorbency, so I can wear them throughout my entire cycle?
Pros & ConsPros- Thinner and lighter than normal underwear, measuring in at 1.5mm thick.
- Super quick-drying.
- Extensive size range, this style available in a XXS – 4XL.
Cons- At the pricier end of the spectrum.
- 9/13
When to wear them: While swimming on light to medium days.
Absorbency: Light; 10ml = 2 tampons.
Sizes: XXS – 6XL.
Colours: Blue or Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Period-proof bikini bottoms? Really? I was sceptical. 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 I noticed was that they're so lightweight and thin — and they have a really high leg. They have a hidden two-layer lining which absorbs light period or pee, both in and out of the water. I even wore them while swimming when I returned to the UK. They dry quickly, have a two-way stretch for a flattering fit, plus are chlorine and pilling-resistant.
WUKA actually stocks a plethora of other swimwear styles, from one-piece swimsuits to colourful bikini briefs, which you could wear, for a bit of extra coverage, beneath your normal bikini. No need to miss out on all those trend-led designs from your favourite swimwear brands, after all.
Pros & ConsPros- The most extensive size range, available in a XXS (UK 4-6) — 6XL (UK 24-26).
- UV and chlorine-resistant.
- Each pair is reusable for up to 2 years, saving around 200 disposables from landfill.
Cons- Limited design options — but at least it'll be easy to find a top to match?
When to wear them: When you're spotting.
Absorbency: Light; 20mls = spotting and discharge.
Sizes: XS – 2XL.
Colours: Black and Nude.
Machine washable? Yes.Yep, Step One has joined the absorbent pants brigade, and I'm mega grateful, considering the brand's period thong is one of the most comfortable I've tried. 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 love the fact that they're crafted from sweat-wicking bamboo material and offer maximum absorbency with minimum bulk. Even better, though, is the fact that there's a Nude option I can layer until lighter jeans and dresses come summer. But the factor that has me recommending the brand to all my friends? The multibuy discounts, which take the price per pair down to just £12 if you stock up with a set of seven.
Pros & ConsPros- Super streamlined absorbent core.
- Naturally antibacterial & breathable.
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified, from fabric to packaging.
Cons- Yet another with a fairly intense VPL.
When to wear them: Day.
Absorbency: Light; up to 2 tampons worth of blood, urine or sweat.
Sizes: XXS — 4XL.
Colours: Blue.
Machine washable? Yes.In a bid to break the stigma surrounding menstrual health — why do we insist on discussing it in hushed tones? — Snuggs has launched the first period underwear partnership of its kind, collaborating with Manchester City WFC. And, as part of the initiative, Snuggs will donate period underwear to all players in the Girls' Academy.
But the pants perform too, offering a quick-drying first layer, a highly absorbent second and an impermeable third. Coming in at 1.5mm thick, these are thinner and lighter than most of my normal underwear, plus that wrap-style elasticated waistband made them comfortable to wear for hours on end.
Pros & ConsPros- Thinner and lighter than normal underwear, coming in at 1.5mm.
- Super inclusive size range, available in a XXS (UK 6) — 4XL (UK 22).
- Crafted from recycled nylon, made exclusively from regenerated waste materials via a mechanical process that is entirely chemical-free.
Cons- A little close-fitting, so size up one for maximum comfort.
When to wear them: For sleeping, snoozing and lounging around the house.
Absorbency: Super; 50ml = Up to 10 tampons.
Sizes: XS – 3XL.
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. The brand's also launched period pants for teens, designed for wear under school uniforms. They offer full cover while remaining discreet and preventing leaks or messy bed sheets. They feature a breathable, patented 3mm lining, which is absorbent and antimicrobial to fight odour, stains and bacteria. Plus, they also double as anti-chafing shorts. Hurrah!
Pros & ConsPros- Made from GOTs certified organic cotton, grown without the use of pesticides, fertilisers and herbicides
- True to size.
- Unlike other period boyshorts I've tried, these stay put and don't roll up.
Cons- I would personally prefer a high-waisted cut on this style.
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 offer incredible value. But the high-rise absorbent undies are 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 layer them with a reusable pad.
Pros & ConsPros- That leopard-print pair doubles as a neutral and works well under lighter trousers.
- True to size, but they also stretch to accommodate any bloating.
- I'll say it again — this multi-pack works out at just £5.30 a pair.
Cons- Not the most absorbent option in our lineup.
Period pants FAQs, answered:
What are the benefits of using period pants over disposable products?
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."
What are the disadvantages of period pants?
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.
Do period pants last all day?
"This depends on how heavy your flow is,” Ruby said. “You can wear our pants for up to 12 hour,s 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.
Are period pants hygenic and safe?
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 absorent underwear she adds: “All materials meet CoolmaxFreshFX standards, ensuring high levels of hygiene, health safety, and long-lasting freshness.”
How do you wash period pants?
“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. |
