Periods can be a pain, but not with these pretty yet practical period pants! Read on for our bumper guide of the best brands, how to wash and care for your period pants, and what to look for when investing in period underwear
Uggggh, it’s that’s ‘time of the month’ again. Many women dread our monthly cycles not only for the pre-menstrual symptoms like period pain and cramps, headaches and angry mood swings, but also for the inconvenience and expense. Here at HoneyKids HQ, we are also focused on the environment, and what small part we can do to minimise our contribution to landfill by swapping disposable period products for reusable. There have been huge leaps in technology since our mothers eras to help us cope with our monthly menstruation, and one of these options is period pants.
We already gave menstrual cups a try, and while some are converts to these, many of us can’t quite get the hang of it for every day use. Period cups can also come with messy side effects that are difficult to manage when out and about (or at the shops or office, for example). Period pants? Now these are something we could all work with, no matter our age (and great for teens just starting puberty!)
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Period pants: How they work (and how to wash them properly!)
Best period panty brands in Singapore
1. What are period pants, and how do they work?
Period pants, also known as menstrual underwear, work by combining innovative moisture-wicking fabric technology with thoughtful designs to provide a (hopefully!) leak-proof and comfortable solution for managing menstrual flow. These specialised undergarments feature multiple layers of absorbent fabric, often with a moisture-wicking top layer to keep you feeling dry.
The core layer absorbs and locks in menstrual fluid to prevent leaks and odours. Best bit? Period pants are washable and reusable, making them an eco-friendly alternative to disposable pads or tampons. The downside is that period underwear has a limited absorbency capacity compared to some other menstrual products, such as menstrual cups or high-absorbency pads. If you have extremely heavy flow, you may need to use additional protection or change your menstrual underwear more frequently.
2. How much blood can period pants actually hold?
Like any period product, you should not keep the pants on for an extended length of time. Some period pants claim to be able to hold up to five tampons worth of blood, however in Singapore’s hot and humid weather, this would not be advisable for hygiene reasons and to avoid any chafing or unwanted infections. Like any underwear, period pants can potentially contribute to infections if not kept clean and dry. Bacteria thrive in moist environments, so it’s essential to change your period underwear regularly, particularly on heavy flow days, to prevent bacterial overgrowth.
Another thing to look out for when trying new period pants are skin irritations. After all, the pants are covering some of the most sensitive skin on our bodies! Some people may be sensitive or allergic to the materials used in period underwear, especially if they contain latex or fragrances. If you have known allergies or sensitivities, it’s essential to choose period underwear made from hypoallergenic materials.
3. How do you wash period pants?
Always check the care label of your period pants and use it as a guide to prolong their life. After wearing, it is very important to rinse the underwear under cold running water until it runs clean, then air-dry the period pants before putting them in your washing machine. Don’t let them sit damp in your dirty hamper too long to avoid bacteria growth! Most brands seem to suggest you can then cold machine wash as you would with regular underwear. Add antibacterial washing powder or liquid, and select a cold delicate cycle to protect the inner absorbency fabrics. Adding to this, it’s best to line-dry the period underwear and avoid a hot tumble dryer (which can cause shrinking!).
4. What should I look out for when purchasing period pants?
Period pants are personal. In our experience, they are things you just need to buy and try for yourself. Some do not look like the pictures on the websites (ain’t that typical), and it is difficult to gauge the thickness or softness of a fabric when looking at it on a screen. Our hot tip would be to only buy one item from a range before investing in multiple pieces. Try it first to make sure it works for you and feels comfortable. Most period underwear that we have tried seems to be a little on the smaller side of the sizing chart. Often the seams around the legs can be firmer too, to prevent leaks. So while you don’t want the underwear to be loose, sometimes going one size up is advisable. Check the size guides closely and measure yourself before ordering!
The best period pants look like your usual underwear – not too thick or firm. Really good period pants offer a convenient, sustainable, and discreet option for women and girls during their menstruation. Another tip would be to pack a spare pair along with a tampon or pad in your bag for heavier days when you are out and about, in case you need to do a quick change!
Our favourite brands of period pants available in Singapore:
1. Bonds ‘Bloody Comfy’ Undies
We are huge Bonds fans for everything from their super cute baby onesies to their super comfy t-shirt bras. So when they released a line of period underwear, we couldn’t wait to try them out.
The best bit: So many great colours and different styles! Not just boring black. Whether you like a boyleg or a brief, a thong or a full bike short, Bonds has something for everyone.
What to look out for: These can be quite snug, especially around the legs and waist. We’d advise sizing up.
Pricing: Range from AU$19.99 – AU$32.99 depending on style and absorbency
How to order: Head online, and make sure you look out for the regular seasonal sales to save on bundle deals!
2. Thinx
Thinx were one of the first period underwear brands we came across some years ago, and their styles and technology continue to evolve.
The best bit: Fantastic for plus sizes and a range of styles.
What to look out for: We found the absorbency levels to be not quite accurate – go one-up in your estimate and opt for heavier flow pants.
Pricing: Range from GBP18 – GBP37 depending on style and absorbency
How to order: Only online, and take the quiz to see which style would suit you best!
3. Marks & Spencer
Well then, aren’t these snazzy looking underpants? Marks & Spencer in Singapore is one of our go-to stores for everyday underwear and bras, and they have a range of period pants that they sell in multi-packs. We haven’t yet taken these for a spin, but let us know your thoughts if you have!
Pricing: S$45.90 – S$52.90 for multipacks
How to order: Shop in-store or online
4. Mooncheeks
This homegrown brand has pretty patterns and lacy edges that make you feel sexy while menstruating (a rare treat!).
The best bit: Soft, silky fabrics in lovely patterns, and a fit that feels secure. Huge range of styles that is continuing to be updated!
What to look out for: The boyleg style can be quite a snug fit around the waist and legs after washing. Best to size one up.
Pricing: Range from SG$35 – SG$40 per pair, or look for bundle deals!
How to order: Visit Dilly Salon De Beaute, 2 Pandan Valley, Singapore 597626, floor one or order online
5. Uniqlo
Currently, Uniqlo only has one type of period underwear style, the AIRism Absorbent Sanitary Shorts. These high rise briefs come in pretty pastel colours like pinks and purples, as well as basics like black and beige. We haven’t had a chance to try these yet, but they look to be made of super smooth fabric which promises to deliver ‘lightweight comfort’. They’re constructed with only three ultra absorbent fabric layers, which could make them less bulky than other brands. Let us know if you’ve tried these, and what you think!
Pricing: $19.90 (on sale)
How to order: In store or online
Happy shopping, and make sure you add chocolate, Panadol and a soothing face mask to your cart as well! We can get through PMS together x
