The 7 Best Period Swimsuits to Prevent Leakage
Thanks to these one- and two-piece bathing suits, you can focus on the more important flow — catching the next wave.
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Having your period during a beach or pool day is a nuisance, especially if you aren't as comfortable wearing tampons. Despite the popular myth that water pressure can stop your period, Nutrition Lab Director Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., NASM-CPT explains that swimming may, at most, slow your flow. That's why it's important to wear a menstrual product like period swimwear. These innovative bathing suits are similar to period underwear, but they are specially designed to absorb menstrual flow and prevent leaks while you're in the water so you can feel comfortable and confident during your cycle.
Our Best Overall Period Swimsuit: The Knix Leakproof Classic One-Piece made waves in the period swimsuit category and Knix as a whole outperforms other brands in our Lab tests. This one-piece has all the design features of a comfortable swimsuit like adjustable straps and a built-in bra in addition to stellar absorption of up to three regular tampons.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we test both menstrual products and the best swimwear brands. Our analysts have evaluated over 50 menstrual products and more than 30 swimsuit styles in recent years. 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.
Pros
- Flattering maillot design
- Adjustable straps
- Built-in bra and removable pads
- Extensive bra-cup sizing
Cons
- Some reviewers said removable cups are prone to folding
Sizes: XS–XXXXL+ | Colors: 4 | Materials: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Absorbency: 1–3 regular tampons
WHY WE LOVE IT: 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 with removable cups for easy washing, but some reviewers said the removable cups are prone to folding during wear. There are adjustable straps for a better, more secure fit, and the brand offers sizing for larger busts; 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 $10).
Pros
- Three color options
- Affordable price
- High-rise design is comfortable
Cons
- May not be the most durable, according to Amazon reviews
Sizes: XS–3XL | Colors: 3 | Materials: Polyamide, spandex | Absorbency: 3 tampons
WHY WE LOVE IT: Starting at just under $25, Savvi period swimwear is one of the most affordable styles we've reviewed. These bottoms have a simple design that's easy to pair with your favorite bikini or tankini top. Our style experts appreciate the high-rise waist which is ideal for when you feel bloated during your period. They offer full coverage and have an extended gusset for extra protection.
WHAT USERS ARE SAYING: Online reviewers were impressed by this pair's flattering fit and leakproof design — the bottoms have a 4.5-star rating on Amazon. One satisfied shopper who has a heavy flow wrote, "I was in and out of the pool for literally 7+ hours a day every day of my period and not once did these disappoint me." Another five-star reviewer who found the bottoms to feel super comfortable said, "I felt fully confident to swim in the ocean, lake and pool!"
Some shoppers were less impressed by the quality, with one noting that they pilled after going through the wash for the first time and another felt the material was on the thinner side.
KT by Knix Period-Proof Sport One-Piece
Pros
- Fully lined
- Secure racerback design
- Neutral and bright colorways
Cons
- Some reviewers wished it had more rear coverage
Sizes: XS–XXL | Colors: 7 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Absorbency: Around 2 super tampons
WHY WE LOVE IT: 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 three colors including black, marina (a bright blue to match the water) and seabreeze (a fun coastal print that is pictured here). One shopper reported that her daughter wears it even when she's not on her period, so the higher price may be worth the splurge.
WHAT USERS ARE SAYING: Online reviewers loved the style of this suit, but some wished it had fuller bum coverage (the brand says the bum coverage is "medium"). 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.
Pros
- Stylish
- Neutral color matches other swim tops
- Less bulky design
Cons
- Not ideal for heavier days
Sizes: 4/XS–14/2XL | Colors: 2 | Materials: Recycled nylon elastane | Absorbency: 2 tampons
WHY WE LOVE IT: No one would ever guess these mid-rise, moderate-coverage bikini bottoms from Modibodi were period swimwear. You can mix and match your favorite swim tops with this neutral black bottom that is fully lined. This hip-hugging style is also less bulky compared to other period swim- and underwear we have seen on the market.
Note that this bathing suit offers a lighter absorbency of up to two tampons so it may be best paired with another menstrual product or worn during light days at the end of your period.
WHAT USERS ARE SAYING: 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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Pros
- Flattering neckline and bust
- Available in three colorways
- Super comfortable
Cons
- Pricey
Sizes: XS–XXXXL+ | Colors: 4 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Absorbency: Around 1–3 regular tampons
WHY WE LOVE IT: This Deep V One Piece is the most fashionable period swimsuit we have come across in our research. 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 as well as inclusive sizing for small and large busts.
It's available in three colorways including black (pictured), chartreuse and an adorable daisy pattern.
WHAT USERS ARE SAYING: "I’ve personally worn period swim from Knix and actually reach for it over other swimwear I own, even when I’m not on my period. It’s just so flattering and comfy, and I feel confident with it on," shares one GH analyst. Online reviewers agreed with our expert findings, with one describing the swimsuit as "sexy but secure" and another calling it "the single most comfortable one-piece I have ever worn."
Beautikini Period Swimwear One Piece Leakproof Swimsuit
Pros
- Racerback design
- 10 color options
- Full coverage
Cons
- May fade with extended use, according to an online shopper
Sizes: XS–XL | Colors: 10 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Absorbency: 3 tampons
WHY WE LOVE IT: "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 Sassos. If you are already on a swim team or have access to a pool, it's a good way to incorporate some gentle movement into your day. 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 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 and is available in 10 colorways.
WHAT USERS ARE SAYING: One parent whose daughter wears this one-piece swimsuit to swim practices shared, "I have washed the swimsuit after every use and it has held up nicely." Another five-star reviewer wrote that her daughter "has worn it multiple times without any leaks; her latest was at a waterpark for seven hours." While one satisfied shopper did go buy a second one without hesitation, they noticed the suit began to fade over the course of the summer from extended use.
Pros
- Trendy ribbed material
- Ideal for water sports
- More modest option
Cons
- Only available in black
Sizes: 6/XS–16/XL | Colors: 1 | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex | Absorbency: 1 tampon
WHY WE LOVE IT: 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. 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.
WHAT USERS ARE SAYING: Multiple online shoppers who surf found that these comfortable shorts were ideal for catching waves while on their period. "They are nice and stretchy with a comfy fit and super soft material," said one reviewer, while another shopper added, these "cute period swim boy shorts truly make me feel so protected and carefree during my cycle."
How we choose the best period swimwear
At 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 including absorbency, fluid retention and even shedding. We've also shared period products with over 200 testers who have provided feedback on comfort, absorbency and fit.
Along with testing period products, our analysts regularly evaluate swimwear and have reviewed over 30 styles in our Lab, considering how well they hold up against multiple cycles in the wash, how well they keep their shape after being stretched and if the fabric can resist abrasion from rough surfaces like the sides of a concrete pool. We've also shared swim styles with testers and analysts who wear the swimsuits in their real lives and share their thoughts on style and appearance, as well as comfort and fit.
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. Because period swimwear is still an emerging category, there are fewer styles and color options available compared to regular swimwear.
✔️ 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?
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 heavier 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.
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 period swimwear?
The swimwear's absorbency will help determine how long you can wear the swimsuit before you'll need to change. The brand will usually communicate 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. 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, Paper and Apparel 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 and documented the recent tampon shortage. 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.
Elizabeth Berry most recently updated this article to refresh out-of-stock swimsuits and incorporate feedback from our style and fitness experts.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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