When it comes to managing your period, comfort, reliability, and sustainability are key. For many, traditional options like pads and tampons don’t quite hit the mark—whether it’s the discomfort, environmental impact, or the constant need to restock. Enter period underwear: the modern, reusable, and eco-friendly solution that’s changing the way people experience their periods.
If you're curious about how period undies work, whether they’re right for you, and what makes brands like Hello Undies stand out, read on for the ultimate guide.
What is Period Underwear?
Period underwear is exactly what it sounds like - underwear designed specifically to be worn during your period. But they’re not just any underwear. They’re built with innovative, multi-layered technology that absorbs menstrual blood, locks in moisture, and prevents leaks. The beauty of period undies is that they look and feel just like regular underwear, but with the added bonus of being super absorbent and protective.
Depending on the brand and absorbency level, period underwear can hold between 1 to 5 regular tampons' or pads’ worth of flow. Some people wear them as their sole form of period protection, while others use them in combination with a menstrual cup or tampon for added security.
How Does Period Underwear Work?
The secret behind the success of period underwear lies in its smart fabric technology. While designs may vary slightly between brands, most period underwear is made up of three core layers:
-
Moisture-Wicking Top Layer: This layer sits closest to your skin and is designed to wick away moisture quickly, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
-
Absorbent Core: The middle layer is where the magic happens. Made from super-absorbent materials like microfiber or bamboo, it draws in and locks away menstrual fluid, preventing any wet or sticky feeling.
-
Leak-Proof Bottom Layer: This final layer acts as a protective barrier, keeping blood from leaking onto your clothes or sheets - giving you complete peace of mind.
Despite these multiple layers, modern period underwear is slim, breathable, and lightweight. No bulk. No crinkly sounds. No awkwardness.
Benefits of Switching to Period Underwear
1. Comfort You Can Count On
Say goodbye to scratchy pads and uncomfortable tampon strings. Period undies are designed for everyday comfort. They’re soft, stretchy, and breathable - perfect for sleeping, exercising, or just going about your daily routine.
2. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
It’s no secret that disposable period products contribute significantly to landfill waste. In fact, a single person can use up to 11,000 pads or tampons in their lifetime. Period underwear offers a sustainable alternative that drastically reduces your environmental impact. With proper care, a good pair of period undies can last for years.
3. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
While the upfront cost of period underwear is higher than a pack of tampons or pads, they quickly pay for themselves. By switching to reusable period products, you’ll save hundreds of dollars over time.
4. Fuss-Free and Convenient
Tired of running out of supplies mid-cycle? With period underwear, you can just grab a clean pair and go. No more emergency trips to the pharmacy or stuffing your bag with spares.
5. Great for Teens and First Periods
Because they’re so easy to use and don’t require insertion, period underwear is ideal for younger users and those new to menstruation. They make managing periods less daunting and more intuitive.
When Should You Wear Period Underwear?
You can wear period underwear anytime during your cycle. Many people use them:
-
On light to medium flow days as a standalone option
-
On heavy flow days alongside other protection like a menstrual cup or tampon
-
Overnight, to avoid leaks and stains
-
During the start or end of a period when flow is lighter
-
For spotting, postpartum bleeding, or even bladder leaks
They’re also a great travel companion - no mess, no waste, and no disposal stress when you’re on the go.
How to Wash and Care for Period Underwear
Caring for your period undies is super simple:
-
Rinse in cold water after wearing to remove excess blood.
-
Machine wash on a cold, gentle cycle with your regular laundry.
-
Air dry or tumble dry on low - depending on the brand.
Many brands recommend avoiding fabric softener or bleach, as these can damage the absorbent layers over time.
Why Choose Hello Undies?
If you’re ready to try period underwear, Hello Undies is a standout brand that ticks all the boxes. Designed in New Zealand with comfort, style, and sustainability in mind, Hello Undies offer reliable leak-proof protection in a range of cute, flattering styles.
What really sets Hello Undies apart?
-
Easy care: Unlike many other brands, Hello Undies are safe for the washing machine and dryer - making them perfect for busy lives.
-
Trusted absorbency: With built-in layers that lock in moisture and prevent leaks, you’ll feel confident all day (or night).
-
Sustainable choice: Reusable for years, they help reduce landfill waste and the environmental cost of single-use products.
-
Cute: Period underwear doesn’t need to be boring! Hello Undies are the period lingerie you have been looking for!
Whether you're new to sustainable period care or ready to upgrade your underwear drawer, Hello Undies are a practical, planet-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on comfort or performance.