Menstrual panties: reviews, best brands 2021

Marie Arnoult Expert Writer Products
Published on , updated on

Menstrual panties are the talk of the town, here is a complete comparison to choose the best model. All these period panties have been tested by four women over several months, according to rigorous criteria: composition, comfort, absorption, elegance, and more. Practical, durable, healthy, effective and pretty: menstrual panties are revolutionizing menstruation.Menstrual panties: reviews, best brands 2021Menstrual panties: reviews, best brands 2021

Summary
  1. Réjeanne
  2. Small Culottées
  3. Elia Lingerie
  4. Modibodi
  5. Moodz
  6. < li>So Cup
  7. Lily Basic
  8. Other brands tested and appreciated
  9. Menstrual panties: how do they work?
  10. How long can you wear period panties?
  11. Which brands offer heavy flow panties?
  12. Our advice:
  13. Is there a risk of odor with menstrual panties?
  14. How do I wash period panties?
  15. Menstrual panties: what are their advantages?
  16. Other positive points of menstrual panties:
  17. Where to find period panties?
  18. How did we test the comparison?

For several months, fifteen brands have been compared by 4 unique women, each with a different flow and needs. Here are the top period panties, rated according to 15 technical, aesthetic and practical criteria, as well as the feelings of these women. For this new edition, Julie, Marion, Milena and Mathilde are the 4 female testers. Each brand has been tested during their cycles. We have integrated new models and brands into the process, in order to better reflect the most qualitative brands, both from an objective point of view (quality, manufacture, inclusiveness, delivery) and subjective (comfort, feeling of support , elegance, absorption efficiency, etc.).

Réjeanne

The brand was launched in 2008 following crowdfunding on Ulule. Réjeanne was created with the desire to offer a large collection of menstrual lingerie, adapted to all flows. Made in the best workshops in France, they are sold at a consistent price. This is our favorite of 2021, this brand greatly deserved first place in our 2021 ranking.

Commitment and composition of Réjeanne:

Réjeanne briefs are entirely designed in France in the Lyon region and in Brittany, by former seamstresses from the Chantelle and Lejaby workshops. All models are Oeko-tex and organic cotton (GOTS) certified. Réjeanne now has the Origine France Garantie label, further proof of its excellent quality. Several approaches have been put in place to support associations: part of the profits are donated to Basic rules or Action Santé Femmes.

Femininity, diversity of models and sizes:

Réjeanne is the brand with the most models (20 in total). Tanga, shorty, boxer, panties and high waist: each model has its own identity. Réjeanne caters to all morphologies, and offers sizes ranging from 10 years old to 50. The models are available in 13 different colors and 4 types of absorption, enough to satisfy every woman. Réjeanne is also the first brand to have launched a menstrual swimsuit in 2019, then a menstrual legging in 2020, and finally a menstrual shorty in 2021. A real favorite.

Form, absorbency and comfort:

During the tests, the different models all performed well. Very well cut and comfortable, the panties tested met the expectations of our 4 testers. The absorbency of the inner layer of each model fulfilled its promises for Julie, Marion, Milena and Mathilde. No feeling of humidity or leaks, flawless.

Price, delivery times, warranty:

​​​Delivery is express (about 4 days) and free in mainland France. The packaging is minimalist. The price of panties varies between 34 and a little over 50€ for the most advanced models.

Review of the tests and our opinion:

For Julie, it's flawless "it's one of my favorite brands. I was completely safe in terms of leaks, and they're all very comfortable, so much so that I had forgotten about them!"

Marion: "I found it ideal for the night, even with my flow, very abundant".

Milena "splendid and comfortable, especially during sport".

Mathilde "the Gaïa panties are my favourite, absolutely not embarrassing and very comfortable".

>> Discover Réjeanne

Petites Culottées

The Petites Culottées brand was launched in 2018 with the desire to create a range of high quality and environmentally friendly menstrual lingerie. This is our second favorite for this 2021 edition.

Commitment and composition of Petites Culottées:

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Minimalist packaging, biodegradable instructions and carbon footprint analysis, Petites Culottées is committed to a CSR approach and aims to reduce its environmental impact as much as possible. The Petites Culottées brand is labeled Origine France Garantie and regularly makes donations to associations fighting against breast cancer and to students.

Menstrual panties reviews, best brands 2021

Femininity, diversity of models and sizes:

Petites Culottées now has 9 models of menstrual panties, which are distinguished by their original names: the Audacious, the Player, the Sereine. The founder designs the models herself and different shapes are on sale: high waist, high-cut bottoms, simple bottoms and thongs. The brand offers sizes ranging from 10 years to 48 and models with 3 flows. Feminine and comfortable to wear, the models have been tested and approved by our 4 testers.

Form, absorbency and comfort:

Each model proved to be highly appreciated by the four testers, who revealed no leaks or feeling of humidity. The absorption zones were perfectly adjusted, without being too thick or too thin.

Price, delivery times, warranty:

The brand offers free delivery from 90€ of purchase. Apart from menstrual panties, the brand also offers many other products: socks, menstrual swimsuits, camisoles, lingerie, etc. In each order, a small pouch is provided. The prices vary from 40 to 60€ approximately.

Review of the tests and our opinion:

Julie: a real favorite "Wearing these panties is very pleasant and it's one of the rare times when I felt sexy while having my period. I felt very confident".

Mathilde: "The lace edging is a little bigger, which makes it a real component of the panties and not just a decorative addition. I felt completely confident".

Milena received "La Joueuse": "It's a pretty panty, even if the protection is a bit thin for heavy periods. For the beginning of your period or light flows, it's perfect".

Marion received La Vénitienne: "These panties combine comfort and femininity. They are very pleasant to wear and effective".

>> Discover the Petites Culottées brand

Elia Lingerie

The Elia Lingerie brand has stood out since its inception for its excellent communication around endometriosis, which the founder who designs each of these models suffers from. Another no-fault for our testers who really appreciated the shape of the models.

Elia Lingerie's commitment and composition:

The entire Elia Lingerie range is Oeko-Tex and Gots organic cotton certified. The brand also holds the Origine France Garantie label for all of its models. The entire Elia Lingerie team is committed to enabling women to better understand their cycles. The models are imagined and designed with and for women.

Femininity, diversity of models and sizes:

Elia Lingerie offers different forms of menstrual protection: thongs, panties, high waist, shorty, cycle and boxer. The models are offered from 10 years old up to size 60: this is one of the most inclusive brands in our test. In terms of flows, the models are offered in 4 different absorptions, including one designed for “hemorrhagic flows”.

Form, absorbency and comfort:

The wrap-around shape of the briefs was very appreciated by the testers, who found it reassuring and comfortable. The absorption was also on point!

Price, delivery times, warranty:

The brand regularly adds small accessories with the order. The prices vary between 35 and 50€. Elia Lingerie also offers period swimsuits and models suitable for pregnant women and teenagers.

Review of the tests and our opinion:

Julie received the Colette model: "This model is one of my favourites. The panties are absorbent, adjusted and covering, and the lace brings a little refined touch".

Mathilde: "I really liked the wrap effect on the front of the panties".

Marion: "the red panties are very pretty, I found them to be well adjusted and comfortable".

>> Discover Elia Lingerie

Modibodi

The brand was launched in 2013, with the desire to offer women an ultra-complete range of protection and menstrual lingerie that is both qualitative and responsible.

Modibodi commitment and composition:

Modibodi has developed a patented technology to achieve models with a breathable, anti-microbial, highly absorbent and ultra-discreet fabric. Designed mainly in bamboo viscose and merino wool, the models are equipped with "Air technology": the soft lining is anti-humidity and anti-odor, and remains very comfortable. Very committed to an approach of inclusiveness and support for disadvantaged women, Modibodi has set up several programs such as Give a Pair (donations of menstrual underwear) and donations to associations fighting menstrual poverty.

Femininity, diversity of models and sizes:

Modibodi is the brand with the most different models, there are more than 20! High waist, thong, panties, tanga, shorty... all in several colors and in 4 different flows, one of which is designed to last 24 hours (heavy overnight). In terms of sizes, Modibodi goes from 8 years old to size 60! The "red" range is designed for teenage girls, ranging from 8-10 years old up to size 16-18 years old. Apart from menstrual protection, the brand also offers underwear dedicated to pregnant and breastfeeding women, period swimsuits, certified vegan models (without merino wool), washable diapers and sportswear.

Form, absorbency and comfort:

Our testers all loved the remarkable comfort of the models, all adapted to body types. Reassuring and pleasant to wear, the panties have kept their promises!

Price, delivery times, warranty:

​​​​​​Modibodi is the brand with the best value for money, the first models are offered at less than 20 euros, for remarkable quality. The packs of several panties allow you to save money, especially since it is appropriate to invest in 4 to 5 panties to ensure rotation on the days of your period. The packaging is minimalist, and delivery is guaranteed in 3 to 5 days. The brand offers a 60-day period to try on and exchange if the size does not match.

Review of the tests and our opinion:

Julie: "very comfortable, I feel absolutely at ease in it and I find it very cute. You can feel that the quality is there".

Mathilde: "The colors are elegant, the blue really changes from the other panties I have. And bonus: the absorbent area is black, no worries about blood not washing off well!"

>> Discover Modibodi

Moodz

The Moodz brand was also a favorite of the four women. Launched in 2019, the brand aims to change the way menstruation is viewed and make menstrual panties accessible to all women.

Commitment and composition of Moodz:

The Moodz range is Oeko-Tex certified, the models are designed in Portugal. This is the first brand to have launched a gender neutral boxer, in order to address non-binary and transgender people.

Femininity, diversity of models and sizes:

The Moodz range includes 14 different models, in 4 formats: panties, shorty, high waist and boxer. Some have a pretty gold border and others have a zebra pattern! Black, blue, pink, or red: the choice of colors meets all desires. We fell in love with the “plumetis” model, which makes menstrual lingerie sexy! The models range from 32 to size 52.

Form, absorbency and comfort:

All the testers appreciated the comfort and the elegance of the panties, which also keep their promises from the point of view of absorption.

Price, delivery times, warranty:

The Moodz range remains average and offers models ranging from 30 to 40€. Delivery is free from 85€ of purchase. What is significant is the 30-day guarantee to proceed with an exchange if the size is unsuitable.

Review of the tests and our opinion:

Julie received the dotted dot model: "She's pretty and absorbs very well, the dotted dot is very cute".

Marion: "Sexy, comfortable and elegant, these panties fulfill all my expectations. I like to wear them in the middle or at the end of the cycle, when my flow is less abundant".

>>Discover Moodz briefs

So Cup

Launched in 2017, the So Cup brand initially wanted to democratize the use of the menstrual cup. The founder then had the wish to extend the range by offering menstrual panties.

Commitment and composition of So Cup:

So Cup menstrual panties are Oeko-Tex and organic cotton (GOTS) certified, and are partly designed in France and Tunisia. The brand is committed to associations fighting against menstrual poverty in France and Senegal.

Femininity, diversity of models and sizes:

The So Cup brand offers 9 models, all available in "day" or "night" absorption format. The night version has an absorption zone that goes higher to the level of the buttocks. So Cup offers different shapes of panties: high waist, panties, boxers, thongs, each responding to different morphologies. In terms of sizes, the brand offers models ranging from 10/12 years up to size 56!

Form, absorbency and comfort:

The testers found the models very comfortable, to the point of imagining that they could wear them every day without any problem.

Price, delivery times, warranty:

Delivery is free from €65 of purchase, and the price range is very correct (between €20 and €50).

Review of the tests and our opinion:

Julie: "These panties left an excellent impression on me, I will wear them every day as they are so comfortable".

Marion: "The panties fit very well, they are very comfortable. The high waist does not constrict at the stomach level or at the level of the thighs and the groin. I wore them for 8 hours without any problem."

Mathilde: "I wore them for 8 hours without any problem, they are very pretty and comfortable. They are really the kind of panties I prefer: simple, soft and easy to maintain."

>> Discover So Cup briefs

Lily Basic

Lily Basic is so named in reference to its founder, Lise. The brand was launched in 2019 with the desire to offer responsible and comfortable menstrual lingerie.

Commitment and composition of Lily Basic:

The Lily Basic brand offers an OEKO-TEX certified range (materials certified free of harmful substances and free of nano silver particles), and the cotton is labeled organic (GOTS). Lily Basic period panties are made in Europe from recycled lace and high quality fabrics.

Femininity, diversity of models and sizes:

The So Lily Basic brand offers 3 different models, in black. Minimalist but elegant, the range is suitable for all morphologies: the sizes go from 32 to 52. The models are offered in "normal flow" or "abundant flow".

Form, absorbency and comfort:

Specially adapted to curvy women, the models are reassuring and comfortable. The quality of the fabrics will delight sensitive skin.

Price, delivery times, warranty:

The Lily Basic range is in a price range consistent with the quality of the models: between 41 and 52€.

Review of the tests and our opinion:

Julie: "I'm very comfortable in these panties, and safe from leaks. It's one of my favorites, it's ideal for everyday use and practical, especially for a woman like me who has little free time with two children!".

Marion: "The panties fit well and are very comfortable. I appreciate this model which adapts perfectly to my morphology."

Milena: "comfortable panties good for heavy flows! They keep their promises."

>> Discover Lily Basic

The other brands tested and appreciated

In order to make this comparison complete, we wanted to mention the other brands that have been tested and appreciated by our testers. These brands also meet our quality requirements and have been validated during practical tests. So we wanted to introduce them to you:

Menstrual panties: how do they work?

Menstrual panties are washable panties that are worn during menstruation to replace other sanitary protection:

-The bottom of the panties is made of several layers of waterproof, anti-odor, anti-leak and very absorbent fabrics

-Menstrual panties replace disposable pads, tampons and menstrual cups

-All of the menstrual blood is absorbed by the bottom of this particular underwear, and remains discreet under the clothes.

How are period panties made?

1 - A soft fabric in contact with the mucous membranes (sometimes in organic cotton)

2 - A breathable, anti-bacterial and anti-odor absorbent layer (natural bamboo or cotton fibers)

3 - A waterproof membrane

How long can you wear period panties?

All day or all night, to be adapted according to flows:

Just put on the menstrual panties in the morning before starting the day, and change them in the evening.

Menstrual panties can normally last for up to 12 hours, unless the model specifies that it has a low capacity.

Some brands have even designed ultra-absorbent models, which will be ideal for people with heavy flow or for the night. These panties do not necessarily have a greater thickness, but have an absorption zone that goes higher towards the buttocks.

Which brands offer heavy flow panties?

Our advice:

-For the start of the cycle, during the ovulation period (in the event of spotting) or for vaginal discharge, special light flow menstrual panties will be perfect.

-For the night, sports sessions and heavy flows: the most absorbent and covering models will be more suitable.

Is there a risk of odor with menstrual panties?

None: Period panties are odorless and do not smell bad.

The bottom of the panties is absorbent, and the natural fibers of the insert have the advantage of being anti-odor and breathable. This absorbent layer is often made of tencel, a material highly appreciated for its antimicrobial properties.

Advice: In case of persistent odors, consider consulting your doctor (fungal infections and STDs can cause these inconveniences).

How to wash period panties?

Just rinse the panties or let them soak for fifteen minutes in cold water, before starting the washing machine at 30°C maximum, or by hand!

Dirty panties can be washed at the same time as other clothes, even if they are placed in a reusable laundry bag.

Warning:

- Fabric softeners and fabric softeners should be avoided

-No tumble dryer, only air drying is possible!

Menstrual panties: what are their advantages?

They save money:

Each year, nearly 1.7 million women have difficulty obtaining sanitary pads. Admittedly, a ruler panty may seem expensive to buy (on average 35 euros), but it is a long-term investment.

According to the calculations of several associations fighting against menstrual poverty, the usual disposable sanitary protections correspond to an average expenditure of 1500 to 3000 euros in the life of a woman!

Healthy and ecological menstruation:

The period panties are washable and reusable for several years. All the panties selected by our comparison are certified Oeko tex, a label affixed to materials and clothing devoid of any trace of chemical product or nano silver particles. Some brands source GOTS organic cotton, a superior label that indicates that the fibers come from organic farming.

As a reminder, disposable pads and tampons sometimes take up to 800 years to degrade. Recent ANSES studies have detected the presence of harmful substances, pesticides and other endocrine disruptors.

If in doubt, you can start by using a washable pad, which attaches with press studs or ties on the bottom of the panties.

The other positive points of menstrual panties:

-All of the menstrual blood is absorbed, from the beginning to the end of the cycle

- Panties help prevent leaks, and cotton in contact with the skin stays dry

-The brands offer colorful and sexy models, like the usual lingerie

- The composition of the fabrics is respectful of the body and the environment

Review and opinion: a perfect option for young girls who have just adjusted, sensitive women who do not like tampons, and all those who want to change sanitary protection.

Where to find period panties?

On the internet:

The majority of period panties are for sale online, often with fast delivery. Only a few micro brands made in France have longer lead times, because the manufacturing is made to order.

On the Amazon site: it is possible to find the Saforelle, Intimate or Innersy brands, at low prices. Perfect if you want to start the transition at a low price.

On the Asos website: we find the brand Thinx, one of the first brands of menstrual panties

In store: You can find the Smoon Lingerie brand at Etam and Monoprix.

On sale in stores and some brands:

Blooming is sold in several Monoprix and Auchan physical stores.

The Plim brand is present in many organic shops and parapharmacies in France.

How did we test the comparison?

More than fifteen brands of menstrual panties were tested by three women, in order to achieve a relevant comparison of the best period panties. The products have been tested cycle after cycle.

Steps of the test:

1 - Oeko-Tex certified panties for healthy materials

2 - Panties rated on more than 15 criteria

3 -Test of the models by the 3 women

4 - Measurement of absorbent fabrics, washing methods

5 - Feedback from women who use menstrual panties (opinion, test, use, etc.)