

PFAS are a group of manmade chemicals that are found in waterproof and nonstick products. There have been some concerns recently around perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) being found in period underwear. If you're new to period underwear, try an overnight style for nighttime protection - this was a favorite among our testers. Look for styles that suit your needs to have the best period underwear experience. ✔️ Use: Period underwear is designed to absorb menstrual flow, so most styles aren't well suited for incontinence (except for a featured style from Knix). Opt for period underwear styles that are similar to the regular underwear you like. ✔️ Styles:Just like regular underwear, period underwear is available in different cuts like high-waisted, bikini, hipster and thongs. We recommend having styles with a few different absorbencies to suit different days of your period. ✔️ Absorbency: Period underwear is available in different absorbencies - some styles are meant to be worn without any other period products while others are intended as back-up protection. GH underwear pros found the key features to look for when shopping: With more and more period underwear styles available on the market, finding the right pair can be challenging. ✔️ Comfort and fit: In addition to all our Lab evaluations, every pair was sent to five testers of different sizes and menstrual flows to receive feedback on leaks, comfort, fit, absorbency and more. As no one just sits still when on their period, this test determines if the period underwear will be absorbent at different angles too. After a pair was washed two times, we evaluated runoff, which refers to how much cough syrup will roll off the underwear when it’s tilted to a 45 degree angle. ✔️ Wash and wearability: Our pros also evaluated shrinkage after one and five washes. This test was completed when each pair was brand new and again after one and five washes. to see if the period underwear will keep you dry!). Once completely absorbed, we placed filter paper on top then added a ten-pound weight before reevaluating the filter paper to see how well the period underwear held onto the fluid (i.e. To measure absorbency speed, we applied cough syrup to the underwear with a syringe and timed how long it took for it all to completely absorb into the pad. ✔️ Absorbency speed: We used cough syrup to mimic the viscosity of menstrual flow just as manufacturers do to test pads and tampons. Then we sent each style home with consumer testers to evaluate comfort and style. In the Lab, we evaluated absorbency speed, shrinkage and runoff to ensure that each product we recommend will perform. We reviewed over 1,500 data points before making our recommendations.

To find the best period underwear, the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab checked the absorbency of top-rated pairs using red cough syrup (manufacturers use it to test pads and tampons too!) and also sent home 17 different styles with 85 testers to get feedback on comfort, leaks and more. While there are now plenty of stylish and comfortable options available, you'll want to steer clear of any styles that aren't absorbent enough or add unnecessary bulk. The best period underwear looks and fits just like regular underwear, but features a special layer that helps prevent blood from leaking through. If you're looking to cut back on waste, period panties can be a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable menstrual products like pads, tampons and liners. All information and product picks selected by the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab remain the same. We updated this guide in January 2023 to include information about the Thinx settlement.
