Period underwear vs pads
My reasons for choosing to switch to reusables were predominantly for comfort, and this is where I would personally judge pads and pants as equal. As long as you invest in decent quality brands.
In terms of product efficacy (how well they work), I believe you get what you pay for, and it is definitely worth paying more for a good quality product. The key is knowing your flow and getting the absorbency level right for your needs.
With both options, if they start to feel damp during the day then it’s time to change them or up your absorbency. Period underwear does however have a tendency to feel wet or damp quite quickly, so you probably should plan on changing pairs more frequently.
Don’t buy cheap
Whatever your preference, I would always buy the best quality you can afford. Cheap versions of both product types on Amazon might look like they are great value, but they probably won’t be as absorbent or last as long.
Many of them actually have the cheek to state that you can only wear them whilst using a tampon, which really is not the point.
Multiple reviewers show photos of how many pairs they go through in a day or how they fall apart after the first wash or wear.
These cheap versions are a complete con, and should not be sold named as period pants when they aren’t up to the job of handling even regular flows.
Not to mention the ethical implications of how or where they were manufactured. And I personally wouldn’t trust the ones in Primark either, or make a judgement on whether period pants work for you based on the cheapest out there.
Save your money and get some good branded pants - aren’t you worth it after all?
How long do they last?
Some pads brands say they have a lifespan of between 3-5 years and this sounds feasible to me. Some pants brands say they need replacing after just 2 years. But think how frequently would you replace your knickers normally? I would expect a decent quality set of period underwear to last the same timeframe.
A lot of period underwear brands recommend washing at only 30 degrees to make them last longer.
Brands I can particularly recommend for comfort and I have affiliation links (some including voucher codes) with are:
Brand new British brand and small business Power of Pants! are super sassy, colourful and practical to boot (follow link or enter “BERRIESANDBUNDLES” at checkout for an exclusive discount)
British brand WUKA who are the original makers of period pants in the UK and the dominant market leader. For good reason, the quality behind their products and ethics behind their manufacturing are revolutionary.
Aussie brand Modibodi are probably the most well known globally and are really pushing the boundaries in terms of style & product ranges.
If you want to hear more real women’s thoughts on period pants, please join my chat group. And share your thoughts too!
Suggestions
Hippynut mini or double bags can be great for storing used damp pads and Baba & Boo are a good size for keeping used or damp pants in until wash day.
Help guides
For more straight forward practical tips on how to switch to reusables without adding to your existing workload, have a read of my further blogs: