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14 best period pants and reusable pads, tested by 350 women
These sustainable sanitary products provide hours of protection and comfort
Tested by Maria KumarBeauty and Grooming Testing Manager
Many of us are making the switch to period pants and it’s hardly surprising. They’re comfortable, convenient, kinder to the planet and will save you money in the long run.
The big question, though, is: do they actually work? To help you make the change from single-use sanitary pads to these eco-friendly alternatives, our Good Housekeeping Institute experts put the best period pants to the test. Scroll on for in-depth reviews of our favourites, plus everything you need to know about leak-proof products.
In a hurry? Here are our top picks at a glance:
Best period pants
How we test
Period pants
Our panel of over 350 testers trialled 22 brands of period underwear in a range of sizes, styles and absorbencies for the duration of their period. They gave feedback on the comfort of the pants — considering the softness and breathability of the fabric — and crucially, the level of absorbency and protection against leakages. Testers were also asked how active and flexible the underwear allowed them to be and how easy it was to wash.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute lab, our experts measured the absorption rate of the underwear, as well as examining surface wetness, re-wetting (using a weight and paper towel to see if the paper is damp after two minutes when under pressure, to replicate sitting down) and shrinkage after washing.
Reusable pads
Over 160 testers tried nine brands of sanitary pads and liners, including a mix of reusable pads and sustainably made or biodegradable disposables. Testers assessed absorbency levels, how protected they felt from leakage, and how comfortable they were to wear.
In the lab, we did the same absorbency test as we did with the period pants. You'll find our winners below.
Jetting off on holiday? Check out our review of the best period swimwear.
Best period pants for 2025
Score: 92/100
Our joint winning pair absorbed fluid instantly and dried quickly in our lab test. One tester thought they looked “as seamless as regular underwear” under clothing and almost everyone found them soft and comfortable to wear.
They kept most panellists leak-free and also avoided any odours. No one experienced any irritation and all found them a doddle to wash. They don’t come in a range of absorbencies, but they do claim to hold as much fluid as a Bodyform Ultra Normal sanitary pad. Say no more.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Normal |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 8 hours |
| Material | Body/waist: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane. Gusset lining: 100% polyester. Gusset inner: 87% polyester, 13% polyamide. Gusset lower: 100% polyurethane |
| Sizes | S-XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 92/100
Claiming to hold up to seven times more blood than a normal disposable tampon, these pants had a lot to prove. And that they did – in the lab analysis, the material was found to be “very effective” at absorbing fluids and caused minimal re-wetting (see ‘how we test’ for a definition). There was also minimal shrinkage after washing.
Our testers loved how discreet the shape of the pant was “even under tight-fitting jeans” and some said the snug but stretchy fit provided comfort for period bloating. Note that 1% of revenue from every purchase also goes to the YoungMinds charity for mental health support, so you can feel good about your purchase in more ways than one.
The only downside was that some of our panel would have preferred more than one pair per pack, and the instructions could have been clearer, but once they worked out when best to change them, our testers rated them their joint favourites.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | Moderate-Heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | 7 regular tampons/2 pads worth |
| Material | Rayon |
| Sizes | XS-XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 91/100
Just missing out on the top spot, these M&S knickers come in an impressive range of sizes.
None of our panellists reported any leakage and the vast majority found them silky-soft to wear, allowing them to move about freely, even when bloated. Overall, they impressed our testers so much that almost everyone said they planned to use them again.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | High |
|---|---|
| Protection | Not disclosed |
| Material | Body: 81% polyamide, 19% elastane. Gusset lining: 100% polyester. Gusset inner: 64% cotton, 36% polyester |
| Sizes | 6-28 |
| Machine washable | Yes |
WUKA Stretch Seamless High Waist Period Pants (Heavy Flow)
Score: 89/100
Leakage is common at various stages of life, and these stretchy WUKA pants are perfect for pregnancy, post-pregnancy or just the general bloating and shape-shifting our bellies do around that time of the month and beyond.
Our panel testified to the super-stretchy, seamless design of these knickers, telling us they were “more comfortable than a normal pair”, with one saying they'd bought another pair “they were so good!” The only thing to note was that one of our testers felt the sizing ran a bit small so they’d rather size up next time.
Key specifications
| Absorbency levels | Heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 12 hours |
| Material | Innovative StretchTM technology |
| Sizes available | XS-4XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 89/100
Made from sustainably-sourced, breathable fabric, these stretchy pants can absorb around two to three tampons’ worth of fluid.
Our testers said they were comfortable to wear and didn't cause irritation, and most said they felt secure and supported. No leakage was reported either, and they scored full marks in our absorbency lab tests.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Medium and heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 8 hours |
| Material | BCI certified cotton |
| Sizes | XXS-6XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 88/100
If you’re worried about the design of flow-friendly underwear cramping your style, these trendy tampon substitutes should be top of your list. Testers were taken with the polka dot high-waist design, which made them feel like they could “still wear attractive pants while on [their] period.”
Our panel said they preferred these pants to pads and tampons and many said they’d continue using them after the trial, as the design and functionality makes them stand out from other plain black competitors. They also performed best in our lab tests for preventing leakage, avoiding shrinkage when washed and absorption rate.
Key specifdications
| Absorbency levels | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 12 hours |
| Material | Panty: 76% Polyamide — recycled, 24% Elastane, Lace: 73% Polyamide, 27% Elastane, Gusset: 100% Polyester / 87% Polyester, 13% Polyamide |
| Sizes | 2XS-3XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 87/100
Coming in a variety of styles and sizes, from bikini to high waist, these period pants are not only stylish but for every one you buy, a pair will be donated to a person in need.
Our testers liked how secure these felt when on, even during exercise, and appreciated their comfortable fit at night. They also scored almost full marks in our absorbency lab tests.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Medium |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 12 hours |
| Material | lining: 95% cotton,5% spandex, middle: 80% polyester, 20% nylon, body: 95% bamboo, 5% spandex |
| Sizes | UK 8-14 |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 87/100
Designed for sportswomen, by sportswomen, most testers found these comfortable to wear during both exercise and sleep, making them the perfect multi-taskers.
They kept leaks at bay for most of our panel, with many finding them suitably stretchy and breathable enough to keep using after the trial has ended.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Moderate-heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 8 hours, day or night |
| Material | Body: 90% polyester, 10% spandex. Inner: 95% bamboo, 5% spandex. Middle: 95% organic cotton, 5% lycra |
| Sizes | XS-L |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 87/100
Add a bit of interest to your period underwear collection with this plaited design, which comes in a range of styles and colours.
They absorb 2.5 tampons’ worth of liquid and feel stretchy and secure, making them a good option for more active days. Our testers gave these pants their seal of approval too, saying they’d continue to use them after the trial.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Light, moderate, heavy |
|---|---|
| Protection | 2.5 tampons' worth |
| Material | Nylon/Elastane (75%/25%), Lining: Cotton/Elastane (95%/5%), Waterproof Outer layer of Oeko-Tex certified TPU |
| Sizes | UK 4-24 |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 84/100
Modibodi claims its pants can soak up to an impressive 10 tampons’ worth of fluid and the lining prevents stains and odours. Our panel agreed, reporting excellent absorbency, and they scored almost full marks in the GHI lab.
Although not as breathable as other pants featured on our list — so perhaps not one to exercise in — they are comfortable. We think they're a top choice for nighttime wear or sofa days.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Super light, light, moderate, heavy-overnight |
|---|---|
| Protection | Up to 10 tampons' worth |
| Material | Outer — 95% Bamboo Viscose 5% Spandex, Gusset — Merino Wool, Polyester, Polyamide. Excludes trim |
| Sizes | XS-6XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Score: 82/100
Acing our lab test for absorbency and drying quickly, these also kept most of our panel leak-free. They proved comfortable enough to sleep in and sufficiently freeing to move about in for many of those who tried them.
Testers appreciated the pretty shades and variety of style options on offer, and almost all trusted them enough to wear them in public.
Key specifications
| Absorbency options | Lightest, light, medium, heavy, overnight |
|---|---|
| Protection | Not disclosed |
| Material | External: 86% polyamide and 14% spandex. Internal: 100% natural |
| Sizes | XS-3XL |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Best reusable pads
Score: 87/100
Another entry from Hey Girls, but this time in the shape of reusable and machine-washable pads, which use absorbent bamboo microfibres to eliminate leakage.
Our testers said they were comfortable to wear and fitted neatly into existing underwear, secured by wings and a popper seal. The majority said they performed better than disposable pads too, making them a reliable investment.
Key specifications
| Material | Microfibre bamboo |
|---|---|
| Included | 5 reusable pads and wet bag |
| Absorbency options | Moderate, heavy/night |
| Wings | Yes |
Score: 81/100
This brand's mantra is “wear 'em out” rather than throw them out, with the goal of eliminating unnecessary menstrual waste.
Testers were impressed with the absorbency of its pads, with most saying they performed well on heavier days. Some said the pads were too bulky, but overall the majority felt they were comfy to wear, even during exercise.
Key specifications
| Material | Printed layer – 100% Breathable Polyester, Internal layers – 70% Polyester, 30% Polyamide, Top layer – 50% Modal 50% Polyester, Ribbing – 98% Organic combed Cotton, 2% Lycra |
|---|---|
| Included | 1 reusable pad |
| Absorbency options | Light, medium, heavy, overnight |
| Wings | Yes |
Score: 80/100
DAME is focused on finding solutions to the plastic pollution problem surrounding our menstrual cycles – from its reusable tampon applicator to its period pants, its aim is to cut down waste for good.
Made from natural materials such as bamboo and organic cotton, these reusable pads are machine washable and can absorb as much fluid as a super-plus-sized tampon. Our testers were pleased with their overall performance, praising how comfortable and soft they were to wear.
Key specifications
| Material | Polyamide, Polyester, Lycra Fibers, Organic cotton, Lyocell, Bamboo Viscose, Polyurethane |
|---|---|
| Included | 1 reusable pad |
| Absorbency options | Regular or night |
| Wings | Yes |
The verdict on period pants and reusable pads
Bodyform knows a thing or two about period products and its Intimawear Period Pants didn’t disappoint – our panel declared them discreet, comfy and secure. They hold as much blood as the brand’s Ultra Normal pads, so would be good for a normal flow.
For more protection, opt for our other joint winner, Nora Reusable Period Pants, which hold seven regular tampons’ worth, a claim that was backed up by our lab tests.
When it comes to the best reusable period pads, Hey Girls was our clear winner for comfort and reliability.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we’ve been testing products for over 100 years – from massage guns and foundations to teeth whitening kits and wetsuits - so we know what we’re looking for.
Our beauty and grooming testing manager Maria Kumar is an expert in her field. With a master's degree in chemical engineering, a diploma in cosmetic science and an MBA from the London College of Fashion, she knows what goes into creating market-leading products.
She created the protocols we review all period pants against, ensuring we rigorously test any comfort, absorbency and design claims to find the most reliable products on the market.
Why should we switch to reusable sanitary products?
Roughly 2.5 million tampons, 1.4 million pads and 700,000 panty liners are flushed every single day in the UK, so making the change to a reusable option really can make a difference. The most popular reusable sanitary product is the menstrual cup, but if you find these too invasive, pants and pads are a great alternative.
Depending on how diligent you are with caring for them, and how often you wear them, the lifecycle for a reusable pair of pants or a sanitary pad is up to five years — saving countless disposables from ending up in landfills.
The upfront costs are higher (roughly up to £35 for a pair of period pants), but with the average woman spending around £120 per year on sanitary products and inflation only making things worse, you’ll make a significant saving in the long run.
How to wash period pants and reusable pads
Most reusable pads and pants are either washed on a cold cycle or can be added to your usual wash, so they aren’t particularly high maintenance. Brands generally recommend you mix them in with your weekly dark wash, on a 30℃-40℃ cycle, but always check the care instructions beforehand.
It’s important not to use any fabric softener, as this can affect the products absorbency levels, while putting them in a delicates bag can help them last longer.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Maria is our Beauty and Grooming Testing Manager, and since joining in mid-2022, she has managed the testing for mutiple categories including scalp scrubs, collagen supplements and retinol serums. In addition to her master's degree in chemical engineering and a diploma in cosmetic science, she recently received her MBA from the London College of Fashion, focusing on case studies within the beauty industry. Prior to joining the company, she worked within the global technical team at the Estee Lauder Companies for over six years, collaborating with the chemists and engineers to launch luxury beauty products at scale and to quality. She has also worked as a formulation scientist within the pharmaceutical industry and takes this evidence based approach into all her product testing.
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