Period Swimwear: A Buyer’s Guide

A fun day out at the beach can feel ruined by your period. Suddenly, a relaxing swim seems like a logistical nightmare. Luckily, period swimwear can ease the stress.

No more worrying about leaks, bulky pads, or tampons—period swimwear offers a comfortable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional period products. In this blog post, we'll dive into what period swimwear is, how it works, and what you should consider when purchasing it.

What is period swimwear?

How does period swimwear work?

Key features to consider

Recommended period swimwear

 

What is Period Swimwear?

Period swimwear is designed to be worn during your menstrual cycle. Unlike regular swimwear, it comes with built-in layers of absorbency in the gusset to absorb light to moderate menstrual flow, providing leak protection while you swim and stops water getting in.

You can choose a style that suits you from one piece period swimming costumes, racer backs or bikinis.

Benefits of Period Underwear

Water resistant period swimwear offers several advantages that make it a worthwhile investment. Here are some key benefits of reusable period swimwear:

Leak Protection

Period swimwear is designed to absorb period blood, they keep water out and your menstrual flow in so you can swim with confidence.

Comfort and Convenience

Enjoy swimming without the discomfort of bulky pads or the hassle of changing tampons frequently. Period swimwear looks just like regular swimwear, so no one will know you're wearing it.

Environmental Benefits

Reusable period protection is eco friendly. You reduce the waste generated from single use pads and tampons.

Cost-Effective

Although period swimwear has a higher upfront cost, they save you money in the long run compared to continuously purchasing disposable period products.

"Meno plus size is happy for once! I was a little wary, as a plus sized queen I've had some issues getting plus size period swimwear that actually fits. Pleased to say this swimwear fits comfortably, I'm tall as well as round! I can swim again even as a menopausal hot mess!" Olivia Trustpilot April '24

 

How Does Period Swimwear Work?

Reusable period swimwear has a waterproof layer inbuilt which prevents your period flow from leaking out into the water. Many have a coated outer that repels water stopping it getting into the absorbent lining of the gusset and mixing with your blood.

Key Features to Consider

 

 

Absorbency Level

Look for swimwear that can hold at least the equivalent of one tampon’s worth of fluid if you have a light flow and more if you have a heavy flow. Most swimwear on the market at the moment won't manage heavy flow days but are perfect for lighter days or to backup menstrual cups or tampons. 

Leak-Proof

Check for swimwear with a solid leakproof barrier layer and read reviews to confirm their effectiveness. If in doubt, test them out at home in the bath.

Comfort & Fit

Try your new swimwear on over the top of your own underwear to check there is no gaping at the leg - most companies will allow exchanges of unworn and unwashed items. You need it to fit snugly but not so tight it is uncomfortable. Otherwise you will get compression leaks.

Look for swimwear with stretchy, breathable materials.

Style

Stick to shapes that you feel confident in to find a comfortable fit.

Washing Instructions

Check the company website, any instructions that arrive with the costume and on the care label before first washing your swimwear. Always follow manufacturers guidance. To keep it effective make sure your swimsuit avoids fabric softener and direct heat.

Cost

Shop around. The menstrual swimwear market is still quite small and you may find similar costumes on different sites for varying prices. Consider how often you swim and weigh the cost against the benefits and savings over time.

Recommended Period Swimwear 

 

Cheeky wipes:

Cheeky period proof swimwear is available in 4 different styles and 3 different colours to choose from starting in a tiny tween sized 2 (equivalent to a kids pants aged 9-10) up to a size 24 -

Racer back period swimsuit - perfect for teens and adults who swim laps, in jade green 

Adjustable strap / bust support period costume - In neon red or black in a classic sculpting shape.

Ribbed bikini bottoms - great to wear with your own swim bikini top or the coordinating ribbed crop

Ruched sided high waist period bikini - high waisted period bikini bottoms, perfect for relaxing at the beach

 

Cheeky period swimming costumes rank highly on Trustpilot.

 

Others to consider

Modibodi: Known for their innovative design and excellent absorbency, Modibodi offers a wide range of period swimwear options.

Wuka: made from recycled materials, featuring a soft, stretchy fabric that provides comfort and freedom of movement.

 

 

 

Period swimwear is a game-changer for those who love swimming but dread dealing with their period at the pool or beach and for those who can't wear internal protection. With numerous styles and absorbency levels available, you're sure to find the perfect option that meets your needs and provides the confidence to enjoy swimming.

If you'd like more informative blog posts you can have a read of our Beginners guide to period pants

If you have any questions or experiences you'd like to share about period swimwear, feel free to leave a comment below, check out our website or contact us directly. Your comfort and confidence in and out of the water are our top priorities. Happy swimming!

About the Author: Kirstin on our fantastic customer services team loves spending her days helping customers with their reusable period product needs and advising cloth nappy using families. Kirstin lives with her three teenagers and loves walking, cycling and sea swimming year round in our beautiful bay.She is excited to share her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for all things reusable, helping a new generation of parents navigate eco-friendly choices for their children.