The Best Period Underwear And What You Need To Know About Trying Them

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best period underwear

One of the best inventions in recent years has got to be period underwear. Whether you’ve got no time for tampons, want to cut down on waste, or are just plain sick of leaks and stains, it’s certainly worth adding a set (or multiple) to your drawer.

The no leaks invention has already seen many women swap pads and menstrual cups for washable, wearable, and comfortable period underwear. But when it comes to trying them for the first time, we’re sure you have questions.

So before diving into the best period underwear to shop in Australia, we’ve answered some of the most common queries…

How does period underwear work?

Period underwear looks just like normal underwear but will feature a lining in the crutch to capture liquid and wick away moisture.

They’re worn exactly the same way as regular underwear and are available at different levels of absorbency to suit your leakage needs. They can hold an impressive amount of fluid (some pairs up to 10 tampons worth) so you can wear them all day and not have to change them over as frequently as other period options.

Does period underwear smell?

If cared for correctly, your period underwear won’t smell. The best pairs of period underwear will include an odour-eliminating layer in the lining to fight bacteria and stop smells.

Will I feel wet?

It’s a rational fear, but rest-assured one that most period underwear technologies will take care of. You shouldn’t feel wet because any fluid will be absorbed by the underwear lining, with moisture-wicking layers to keep you feeling dry. As long as you’re wearing a pair to match your absorbency flow, you’ll remain protected and damp-free.

What’s the deal with washing?

Most period pants are machine washable, though it’s often recommended to give them a cold water rinse and ring out straight after use.

When adding to your load, the preferred method is a gentle cold wash, and then hang out to dry. If you have a laundry bag you can pop them in, this is a bonus and will your garment protected. It’s also important to avoid fabric softeners and strong detergents eg. stain removers, as they can affect the material.

How long does period underwear last?

This will vary from person to person depending on use and level of care, but Modibodi estimates that a pair can last between six months to two years.

Not bad right? Add ‘cost effective’ to the pros list.

So now that you know what you’re in for, who’s up for a pair of period pants?

The best period underwear to shop in Australia

Modi Bodi Active Brief – Light to Moderate

modibodi active brief

Best for everyday activities

Sizes 8-18

$33 at Modibodi

Bonds Bloody Comfy Bikini Light 5 Pack

bonds period underwear value pack

Best value pack

Sizes 6-24

$89.99 at bonds.com.au

Thinx Super Cotton Brief

Thinx Super Cotton Brief

Best for heavy days

Sizes XS-4X

$50.76 at shethinx.com

Scarlet The G-String Light

scarlet g string period underwear

Best G-string cut

Sizes XS-2XL

$32 at scarletperiod.com

Femme Undies Full Brief

(choose 100ml or 250ml absorbency)

femme undies full brief

Best full brief cut

Sizes 8-18

$34.95 at femmeundies.com.au

Love Luna Teens First Period Bikini

Light to moderate

love luna teen period underwear

Best for teens

Sizes 6-16

$15 at loveluna.com

*This article has been updated since its original publication.

Main image credit: Getty

Have or would you try period pants?

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Comments 121

  1. No for me. Can’t live without security and cleanliness of the Cup. Plus you buy the thing only once, env. friendly and washing so easy. Most hygienic too. And can do yoga with it hehe and swim

  2. I love these. I used to use them with a cup and never had any problems with leakage or odour. And so comfy to boot. I’m out the other side now, but I still often wear the moisture wicking ones on hot days or workouts. Try it, you’ll never go back!

  3. I am a convert to the cup, but I will be considering these when I am looking to move on. I need to get over the fact that they are a washable fabric that soaks in blood and nothing comes out the other side.

  4. I have just started thinking about trying period underwear the last week and I’m leaning toward purchasing modibodi. I’ve read that they sometimes have 20% off so I’m waiting for a sale and then I’ll make a bulk purchase. I’ve written my list of what I want to buy. It would be awesome if there was a discount code for BH members 🙂

  5. I have always wanted to try these, mainly for the environmental factors and as mentioned above, it seems now would be the perfect time!
    I’m hoping they feel less like nappies and are less fiddly than pads.

    Love the option of afterpay also! Just got paid as well, so I think all signs point to “YES! YOU NEED THESE!”

  6. Admittedly, I’m quite skeptic as to this underwear. I mean, I am not opposed to the substitute of pads and tampons that are uncomfortable and a huge hassle in everyday life, but would I try it? Yeah, isolation would make it a great place to try out as I don’t have to go anywhere and be terrified that I’m leaking or showing. But in public? I’ll stick to the good old stuff thanks.
    More of a home thing

  7. I love my modi bodi undies! They are a bit pricey but worth it for the comfort. I have had mine 1.5 years now and they are still going okay (some holes on the sides but still wearable at the moment). I wish I could afford to get more pairs as they do take a while to dry after washing.

  8. Gross! I’m sorry but why is this an actual thing?! I thought menstrual cups were bad enough, but this would be like wearing a nappy! Imagine what your partner would say. I’m sorry but there’s a limit to everything and this is mine. Ugh. I can’t imagine trying to wash these, and the smell. Reminds me of wearing giant pads back when I was 12. Give me a stash of tampons asap!

    • Lol my thoughts exactly regarding these Scarlett! But I was happy regarding the environmental effects for those who want to put up with these things. I’m past menopause now so don’t have to worry at all and I love it – I think you’d probably love it too by the sounds of it! : )

  9. Hmmm, nothing like this was around when I was needing such products. Don’t know that I would wash them with the ordinary wash either. I note a few comments regarding draw backs, but others are pleased with using such a garment. Must mention to my daughter who only has a light period so it might suit her better.

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