12 Best Period Swimwear Options for Stress-Free Beach Days
Bye-bye, FOMO.
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Having your period during a beach vacay, weekend at the lake, or pool day is the quickest way to take your mood from 100 to 0. With no pockets on your suit (not that you could bring an extra tampon in the water with you anyway), it's tempting to throw in the beach towel and reschedule your plans for a week when Mother Nature doesn't make it totally inconvenient. However! What you maaaaay not realize is that period swimwear exists, and it's here to let you take on all the water activities without any leaks. A miracle!
It's never fun when your cycle decides to sync up with your exciting plans—but that doesn't mean you need to let it ruin your trip. Just like period panties, leakproof swimsuits can replace feminine hygiene products with their super-absorbent linings, which keep your menstrual blood securely trapped in place while you swim. Yup, it's true—and if you don't want your period to prevent you from going with the flow (yes, that was a period pun) or if you're looking for another sustainable fashion option, you need to try the reusable period swimwear options below.
Our top picks for the best period swimwear of 2024:
Summer will be here before ya know it, and thanks to these options, you won't have to cramp your swim style (another period pun, sorry!). Keep scrolling for our favorite leakproof swimwear.
Pros
- Comes in extended sizes to fit larger busts and longer torsos
- So simple but oh-so-flattering
Cons
- Some wish the padding was sewn in
- Not the best for those with heavier flows
If you want swimwear with support up top and down low, try this full-coverage swimsuit from Knix. Reviewers <3 that it has a built-in shelf bra with adjustable straps and removable cups, as well as built-in period protection of up to three teaspoons (which is equivalent to about one regular tampon). Even better, it comes in extended sizes to fit a wide range of busts (and those larger cup sizes come with thicker straps for added support). Got a longer torso? No worries—it's also available in a long torso option.
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
- Size range: XS-4X
- Colors: Oceana, Black, Sea Lily, or Feline
- Absorbency: 1 tampon
Glowing Customer Review: "I’m a bust size 36G, so laughed at idea of period swimwear with significant bust support and compression to flatter my soft belly. I can’t believe it but Knix did it ALL! Well done, folks, well done. I no longer have to go MIA for a week each month while the rest have carefree swim days."
Pros
- Leakproof gusset is v thin and discreet
- Double straps keep it from feeling too basic
Cons
- Straps are too long for some, even when fully tightened
- Only available in black on Amazon
Everyone needs a little black swimsuit, no? This one from Hamburg-based feminine hygiene brand MYLILY is sporty and chic, with slightly cheeky butt coverage, unique double shoulder straps (which are adjustable in the back), and the ability to absorb up to two tampons worth of liquid. According to testers, you won't feel like you're wearing leakproof swimwear in this suit (despite the four layers of liquid-absorbing protection it provides!!).
- Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex
- Size range: XS-2X
- Color: Black
- Absorbency: 2 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "The swimsuit fits very well and the quality of the fabric is great! The difference to a 'normal' swimsuit is hardly noticeable, and I was able to go swimming without any worries."
Pros
- Sculpting properties work so well
- Less back coverage is still super supportive
Cons
- Feel too compressive for some, so may need to size up
- Have a tendency to roll down at the top, according to a few reviews
Whether you're feeling a lil bloated or just want that snatched lewk, these high-waisted bottoms from Knix are *it.* Complete with a high-cut leg, cheekier butt coverage, and a sculpting waistband, these will have ya feeling cute and covered while still showing some skin (and they look even cuter when paired with the matching Deep V Bikini Top, just saying). Just note that these only absorb about one tampon worth of liquid, so they're better for your lighter days.
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
- Size range: XS-4X
- Colors: Feline, Lush Green, Black, Oceana, Sea Lily, Mango, or Hibiscus Heat
- Absorbency: 1 tampon
Glowing Customer Review: "I used these bottoms for the entire duration of my period and they worked amazingly. I had absolutely no leaks at all and it absorbed everything. I even went down water slides and swam a ton and they held up so well! I sized up one size from my normal underwear size, and they fit well. I would definitely recommend."
Pros
- Fabric is thick and sturdy for the price
- No extra bulk in the crotch, per reviewers
Cons
- Some testers said it tends to ride up in the bottom
- Thin straps aren't great for bigger busts
Adjustable spaghetti straps? Check. Thick, stretchy fabric that keeps you feeling supported? Check. Four layers of leakproof protection that fully extend from front to back (and can hold up to three tampons worth of liquid)? Check. This no-nonsense suit has it all, and it comes in at just over $40, too. Don't be surprised if you're tempted to get it in all five colors.
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
- Size range: XXS-XL
- Colors: Purple, Black, Red, Blue Curacao, or Cayenne
- Absorbency: 3 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "I love the how thick it is—fabric is high-end quality. It looks slimming [and] flattering on. I like that it’s leakproof. I was hesitant at first to wear it in pool without wearing feminine products, but it actually worked! No leaks, no issues. Straps are adjustable. It has tummy control. Fits as expected. I highly recommend."
Pros
- Ultra high-waisted with light compression
- Bamboo viscose lining helps to fight odor
Cons
- Some testers found they tend to roll at the waist
- May need to size down
A heavy flow and a wide-set vagina (IYKYK 😅) is no match for these full-coverage, high-waisted bottoms. These breathable briefs make sure nothing gets out (seriously, they can hold up to three tampons worth of liquid)—and considering they're less than $30 rn, the price can't be beat. Plus, they're neutral enough to wear with just about any bikini top (though if you're not into black, you can always get 'em in green or pink).
- Material: 75% polyamide, 25% spandex
- Size range: XS-3X
- Colors: Black, Verdigris Green, or Fuchsia Pink
- Absorbency: 3 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "I have a very heavy flow, and these swim bottoms did exactly as advertised. I was in and out of the pool for literally 7+ hours a day everyday of my period, and not once did these disappoint me. They’re also true to size and very flattering on. I love the high-waisted option, and they made me feel compressed when I was extra bloated!"
Pros
- Super absorbent without tons of padding in the crotch
- Ruffle detail is v cute
Cons
- No option to adjust strap
- Runs small, so probs wanna size up
This trendy swimsuit comes in three splashy colors, as well as plain black if you're looking to keep it classic this summer. Most importantly, it holds three tampons worth of liquid, making it a great, discreet option for heavier flow days. Oh, and shoutout to that darling ruffle detailing and one-shoulder silhouette.
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
- Size range: XXS-XL
- Colors: Blue Curacao, Black, Royal Blue, or Orange
- Absorbency: 3 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "Pretty and classy suit. Fits true to size. Not enough support for the girls for an active day at the beach, but enough for lounging poolside. I'd wear this any time of the month!"
Pros
- Comes in a range of sizes, including larger busts and longer torso options
- Thick straps are comfy and adjustable
Cons
- Not as absorbent as other options
- May not provide enough coverage for some
It's giving va-va-voom. Ideal for lighter days (since it can hold about one regular tampons worth of liquid), this sexy one-piece boasts thick, adjustable straps and a full plunge neckline, which can accommodate smaller and larger busts alike. Other perks include the slightly cheeky back coverage, lightly compressive fabric, and the fact that it comes in a long torso option as well.
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
- Size range: XS-4X
- Colors: Oceana, Black, Sea Lily, or Feline
- Absorbency: 1 tampon
Glowing Customer Review: "I find this suit very flattering and liked it so much I bought it in another color. I like the adjustable straps that work for my longer torso, and my 40DDD bust felt supported."
Pros
- Allows for plenty of coverage (while still looking cute)
- Impressively absorbent, according to testers
Cons
- A few reviewers said it's a liiiittle too short in the back
- Some struggled to find the right size
Tbh, you may not feel like parading around in a teeny bikini when Aunt Flo is in town. The solution: a cute tenniscore-inspired swim skirt. Modest without feeling matronly, this leakproof skirt includes built-in bikini bottoms that can hold up to three tampons worth of liquid without any bulk and a thick, comfy band to hug you around the waist.
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
- Size range: XXS-2X
- Colors: Purple, Blue Curacao, Black, Navy Blue, Raspberry Red, or Fresh Red
- Absorbency: 3 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "This swim skirt is made very well and fits as expected. It looks flattering and is thick enough that you would not have to worry about leakage."
Pros
- Great for layering or wearing on their own
- Available in a wide range of sizes
Cons
- Not everyone loves the cheekier cut
- Brand is based in the UK, so shipping is a bit pricey
Found: basic swim briefs that you can pair with just about any bikini top (and that 100 percent don't look like leakproof swimwear). Reviewers love the medium level of absorbency, the inclusive size range, and the fact that—thanks to the classic bikini cut—you can wear these bbs under any other swim bottoms if you want an extra layer of protection.
- Material: 80% polyester, 20% elastane
- Size range: XXS-6X
- Colors: Black, Blue, Deep Pink, Purple, or Tennis Green
- Absorbency: 2 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "I bought these ahead of a holiday I knew I’d have my period on, as I hate tampons and just can’t make them work for me. These briefs are AMAZING! I have medium/light flow, and they caught every last bit."
Pros
- Great for those who like fuller butt coverage
- Sporty cut is ideal for water activities
Cons
- Testers recommend sizing up for a less compressive fit
- Tend to ride up a bit, according to a few reviews
For amazing absorption power and total bum coverage, these sporty swim shorts are calling your name. You'll love the mid-rise cut (which falls juuust below your belly button) and non-dig leg openings—and ofc, the mesh brief lining, which can discreetly hold the equivalent of two super tampons or three regular tampons. Pair it with the Scoop Bikini Top to complete the lewk.
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
- Size range: XS-4X
- Colors: Oceana, Black, Sea Lily, Lush Green, or Feline
- Absorbency: 3 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "I've always preferred shorts as swim bottoms, so I was thrilled when I could get these from Knix PLUS the leakproof protection. They are comfortable and well-made. Highly recommend, especially if you want a bit more coverage on your bum/upper legs."
Pros
- Can pair with an additional pad for 6 tampons worth of protection
- Fabric is thick and comfy, per reviewers
Cons
- Out of stock in some colors and sizes
- Some found the gusset bulkier than they'd hoped
If you're more into swimming laps than lounging, this one's for you. Designed specifically for water activities, this racerback suit uses dri-tech mesh to keep leaks locked in from all sides and offers up to three tampons worth of protection. Best of all, you can pair with the optional Double Sided-Pad for double the period protection (which will give you peace of mind on those heavier days!).
- Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex
- Size range: XXS-3X
- Colors: Bae Watch, Aztec, Black Sea, or Out of This World
- Absorbency: 3 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "I ordered the Period Swimwear Racerback for my 12-year-old-daughter. It fit perfectly, provided great protection, and was well made!"
Pros
- Available in an impressive range of sizes
- Helps to fight odor with bamboo viscose lining
Cons
- May feel a *tad* bulky in the crotch, according to some testers
- Tend to sag a bit when saturated
Just because your bottoms are absorbent doesn't mean you want it to look like you're wearing a diaper. These classic brief bottoms (which have earned over 500 five-star reviews on Amazon, nbd) are stylish yet supportive, with high-cut legs, moderate butt coverage, and a mid- to low-rise design. And according to testers, the absorption power is A+.
- Material: 88% nylon, 12% spandex
- Size range: 4XS-3X
- Colors: Verdigris Green, Black, or Fuchsia Pink
- Absorbency: 3 tampons
Glowing Customer Review: "As my luck would have it, I got my period on the first day on a cruise to the Bahamas. Thankfully, I thought ahead and bought this swimsuit before my trip. It pretty much saved my trip. I used it for two trips to the beach, and it did not leak even during my heaviest day!"
So...how does period swimwear work?
Wondering how the heck period swimwear even works? Here's the scoop: Designed to be worn without tampons or menstrual cups (though you can always use them together and think of period swimwear as an extra safeguard against leakage), leakproof swimsuits soak up menstrual blood with multiple layers of fabric and keep it trapped in place. It's essentially like a swim diaper—but reusable, without the bulk, and washable for easy reuse.
Btw, don't believe that old wives' tale that your period stops when you're in the water, 'cause it's not true. Your body still releases menstrual blood while you're underwater, and though the pressure slows the flow, it doesn't stop it entirely.
Can you wear a pad with period swimwear?
While you can definitely wear a low-absorbency tampon or menstrual cup under your swimsuit, you shouldn't pair a pad or liner with period swimwear (especially if you plan on getting in the water!). Aside from the fact that most pads have wings (which will make 'em visible outside your swimsuit), they're pretty bulky—and once they're filled with water, they won't actually be able to absorb your period anyway.
How do you wash period swimwear?
Just like with any swimsuit, you should follow the wash instructions on your period swimwear to make sure you're caring for it properly. Typically, swimsuits should be washed cold on a delicate cycle and hung to dry (since high heat can damage spandex). Oh, and side note: It's a good idea to rinse any menstrual blood from your suit before you throw it in the wash to avoid staining any other clothes.
How long can you wear period swimwear?
The amount of time you can wear period swimwear will depend on the heaviness of your flow and your swimsuit's absorbency power—but ftr, you should probs change out of your swimsuit soon after getting out of the water, whether or not you have your period. As sex educator and menstrual activist Natasha Ramsey, MD, MPH, previously told Cosmo, "Yeast loves warm and moist environments, and wearing a wet swimsuit for too long can cause yeast to overgrow and lead to a yeast infection." Add period blood to the mix, and you've got lots of potential for problems.
How to choose the best period swimwear
Tryna catch waves without any leaks? Here are a few things to keep in mind as you shop for a leakproof bikini or one-piece:
Consider the absorbency
Depending on how heavy your flow is or where you are in your menstrual cycle, you’ll need to plan accordingly. You know your period and body better than anyone, so you can look at the specifications and decide how strong you want your leakproof swimwear to be. And if you need extra coverage or are nervous to try it out off the bat, start off by using an extra liner.
Pick your coverage
Do you prefer high-rise or low-rise bottoms? One-pieces or two-pieces? Once you know what style of swimsuit you're looking for, odds are you'll eliminate enough possibilities to find the leakproof suit of your dreams.
Read the reviews
Listen, I know how tough it is to buy swimsuits online without getting to try them on in person (and tbh, shopping for bathing suits IRL is hard enough!!!). Luckily, most of these suits come with hundreds of reviews to help you decide whether it'll be a good fit for you and your body.
Why trust 'Cosmo'?
Cosmo's team of digital fashion experts have decades of combined experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we've curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. Our period swimwear was chosen based on style, functionality, testability, price point, and so many reviews to put together this shoppable list of the very best for you!
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
Daisy Maldonado is an editor who covers everything from the latest fashion news to deeper looks at beauty culture and the internet’s most talked-about pop culture moments. She’s especially interested in the intersection of style and digital culture, and loves exploring what the trends we follow say about us. When she’s not writing, she’s probably four pages deep on The RealReal searching for vintage designer pieces or planning her next trip abroad (she lived in Paris for a year and hasn’t stopped talking about it since). Her work has appeared in Vogue, Bustle, Allure, and many more.
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