The best period swimwear for 2025
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I was an early convert to period pants, loving the wearable, washable alternative to single-use sanitary pads and tampons. But something felt off about period swimwear to me. Perhaps it was the fact I couldn't hide the absorbent bottoms under my outwear, be that jeans, joggers or pyjamas.
But there have been major advancements in the world of reusable menstruation products, meaning leak-proof swimwear is more effective (and aesthetic) than ever before, here to help you avoid awkward public toilet tampon changes and excessive plastic pollution. And with new research suggesting that 9 in 10 women and girls (86%) experience mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, linked to their periods, why not remove some of those concerns with the help of a leak-proof bikini or swimsuit?
Luckily, we — a team of menstrating GLAMOUR writers and editors — have set about testing a variety of period swimwear to find the very best. Because, let's face it: ‘coming on’ is the quickest way to ruin any sun-drenched dip in the pool, with sanitary towels proving dissatisfactory underwater. It can be all too easy to throw in the beach towel, but period-proof swim bottoms are here to help — without the risk of a leak or stray Tampax string. So, see below for our honest reviews, as well as answers to all your FAQs
SKIP TO: Is there a way to swim during your period? | Does period swimwear really work? | How we test the best period swimwear.
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- Paige Fashoni, Founder and Managing Director of Fluxies.
Does period swimwear really work?
In short, yes. Just like period underwear, the super-absorbent lining absorbs period blood to keep you clean, dry, and fresh. The only real difference is the addition of a water-repellent outer layer. “Our period-proof swimwear features a hidden built-in protective layer that quickly wicks moisture away and locks in liquid, preventing any leaks,” explains Paige Fashoni, Founder and Managing Director of Fluxies.
"The water-resistant outer layer allows water to simply roll off, stopping any water from getting to the inside of the swimwear and keeping you fresh and dry. They’re great for a moderate flow — absorbing the same amount as approximately three tampons worth — and can be worn for up to eight hours.”
She continues: “We’ve also used recycled nylon for our Swim Range, made from waste like water bottles and fishing nets, and 5% of all profits go to The Ocean Cleanup, a non-profit organisation that works hard to clear plastic from our rivers and oceans."
You can pop period bikinis and one-piece swimming costumes in for a quick dark machine wash after rinsing them out, let them air dry, and you’re ready to go again the next day sans any waste. Sustainability creds? Check. As for styles, there are tons to choose from, including period swimsuits and period-proof bikini briefs, most of which come with matching triangle bikini tops.
78% of teenage girls have stopped playing sports because of their periods.
How we test the best period swimwear:
It's our shopping editors' primary concern: Supplying GLAMOUR readers with independent, honest and trustworthy reviews on the products they want and need most. So, for the last three years, we've personally trialled a selection of period swimwear while on our holidays — by that, we mean in the sea, in chlorine, on hot sunbeds, at the spa and in direct sunlight over several weeks and at various points in our cycles — to find the very best.
Each was judged on five things: comfort, absorbency, how they washed, freshness, and value for money.
Our testers:
- Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer
- Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior European Commerce Editor
- Lucy Smith, Former GLAMOUR Commerce Writer
- Sophie Donovan, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer
Below, the best period swimwear for women and people who menstruate in 2025:
Modibodi Swimwear Shimmer Tie-Back Bandeau Top & Hi-Leg Cheeky Bottom Set
Tested by: Sophie Donovan, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer.
We're calling it early, but this summer marks the return of the shimmer, with high-street brands like Boux Avenue and Free People already offering up options. If you're keen to continue free bleeding during your next vacay with the girls, this sparkly, espresso-coloured set is the ideal addition to your carry-on — especially as it can hold up to 10 tampons worth of fluid, plus is chlorine and pilling resistant.
- Pros: Fully lined in the front and back, plus it is crafted in part from recycled polyamide.
- Cons: On the thicker side — but then again, she's super absorbent.
Modibodi Molokai Swimwear Set Ocean
Tested by: Sophie Donovan, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer.
Capable of absorbing up to 10 tampons' worth of blood, this cute tie-side bikini was a top-scoring option among our testers and is primed for use throughout your cycle. We're obsessed with the striking turquoise colour, which our testers confirmed worked with most skin tones. Best of all, it's crafted from 100% regenerated ECONYL Nylon, so it's got great eco-friendly credentials.
- Pros: Available in every size from XS to 4XL, but that tie side also allows you to adjust as needed.
- Cons: That swim top is best suited to those with a B — D cup.
Modibodi Swimwear Brazilian Brief
Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Editor.
“Perfect for spotting, discharge, light periods and bladder leaks, these Brazilian-style bikini briefs hold up to two tampons of liquid.”
- Pros: Designed for those who want the most protection with the least coverage.
- Cons: The lavender hue may be a little hard to match.
Save when you shop the best period swimwear with these Modibodi discount codes.
Tested by: Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer.
According to Fashoni, FLUX Undies' swimwear range “features the same reliable built-in tech used across our period underwear, which means women can feel confident that they’ll be leak-free, no matter what they have planned.” The brand introduced its period-proof swimwear because it believes women “should never be limited and periods should never hold us back,” and we couldn't agree more.
- Pros: Absorbs 2 to 3 tampons' worth of blood.
- Cons: Fits a little snug, so we suggesting sizing up.
Modibodi Swimwear Shimmer V Neck One Piece
Tested by: Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer.
The brand's most absorbent one-piece yet, Modibodi has truly outdone itself with this stunning swimsuit. Made with soft-yet-supportive ECONYL yarn that hugs the body, we love the sculpting low scoop back, high leg cut and cheeky bottom coverage.
- Pros: Has a built-in, supportive shelf bra with removable foam cups.
- Cons: The horseshoe front results in some pretty interesting tan lines.
WUKA Period Racerback Swimsuit
Tested by: Lucy Smith, Former GLAMOUR Commerce Writer.
“Back after being sold out for some time, this racerback period swimsuit by WUKA is more affordable than other designs (at just under £50), which is what sold me to begin with, but it's also cut to a flattering shape. It holds three tampons' worth of blood, which is enough for me, even on the first day of my period.”
- Pros: A slightly sportier (and majorly) supportive option, thanks to the racerback design.
- Cons: Cold wash only and skip fabric softener.
Save when you shop the best period swimwear with these WUKA discount codes.
Modibodi Swimwear One-Shoulder One-Piece
Tested by: Lucy Smith, Former GLAMOUR Commerce Writer.
“Would you look at this one-piece swimsuit and think it was menstrual blood/period-proof? No, but it is. The (super comfy) design gives you extra peace of mind while you take a splash by locking leaks in and keeping water out — even after you've been swimming. It's also perfect for when you're feeling like a sporty swimmer and want to look the part.”
- Pros: Crafted from pre-consumer recycled fabric, meaning less waste heading to landfill – and less energy.
- Cons: The single strap isn't adjustable.
Modibodi Swimwear Hi-Waist Bikini Brief
Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior European Commerce Editor.
“Made from an innovative recycled fabric that is chlorine-resistant and UV50+ rated, these bottoms feature a high-rise waist, a thick, supportive waistband and fast-drying absorbent lining. I've actually received tons of compliments in these without people even realising they're designed for when I'm menstruating.”
- Pros: UV50+ rated fabric for superior sun protection.
- Cons: Can we request a more summery pastel shade?
Tested by: Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer.
“Why buy just the period briefs when you can have a full bikini? I love that I can't tell this style apart from my usual swimwear, as, even though I love the mix-and-match look, it's always nice to wear a set.”
- Pros: 100% carbon compensated and gynecologically approved.
- Cons: A pricier option — but reframe it as an investment in your menstrual health.
Tested by: Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior European Commerce Editor.
“These aren't suitable for really heavy flow days, but they are perfect at the start or end of your period. Plus, since they're plain black, they can be paired with any of your favourite bikini tops you'd usually wear when not menstruating. I take them on every holiday.”
- Pros: Can be worn under your exciting swimwear if you don't want to ditch your existing swimmers.
- Cons: Exclusively for light flows or as a backup to reusable pads.
Love Luna One Piece Period Swimsuit
Tested by: Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR Senior Commerce Writer.
Made with a smoothing and sculpting fabric, this one-piece is ideal if you're keen on a little more coverage. We love the high back, medium bum coverage, and adjustable straps that make it easy to find your perfect fit. Plus, it's capable of absorbing between 10 and 15 ml of blood, urine or sweat.
- Pros: Fitted with four layers of protection and four-way stretch.
- Cons: Only available in one colour.
Is there a way to swim during your period?
Swimming on your period is entirely possible with the right menstrual products. We recommend trying various options — single-use tampons, menstrual cups, and period pants — to see which suits your lifestyle best. Tampons and menstrual cups are often popular choices as they sit internally, absorbing menstrual blood inside the vagina and preventing leaks.
Period swimwear is another option, fitted with a discreet, absorbent gusset which can often hold up to four tampons worth of blood, urine and sweat. Choosing the right product for you depends on personal style and flow.
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