Key Takeaways:
- Learn The Differences: Explore the pros and cons of pads vs. period panties, and delve into user experiences to help make an informed decision about period care.
- Experience The Upgrade: Period panties offer a sustainable, comfortable, and leak-proof alternative to traditional pads, allowing for a less stressful period experience.
- Mix & Match With Confidence: Combining pads and period panties can provide extra protection for unpredictable or heavy flow days, providing peace of mind during menstruation.
If you’re comparing period underwear vs. pads, you’re likely searching for something that offers both comfort and convenience. At Saalt, we believe that understanding your choices is the first step toward building a period routine that supports you. In this guide, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each product, share insights from everyday users, and explore how they can work together for extra support. Whether you're looking for sustainability, simplicity, or a backup plan you can rely on, we’re here to help you make an informed, empowered decision.
What Are Period Panties?
Imagine a pair of underwear designed not just to catch leaks, but to replace pads and tampons altogether. That’s the idea behind period underwear—an innovation that’s reimagining how we experience our monthly cycles. Made to look and feel like everyday underwear, our period panties have a built-in, multi-layer gusset engineered to absorb flow, wick away moisture, and help prevent leaks. This patented gusset technology offers comfort and protection you can trust, whether you’re heading to class, the office, or bed.
And if you're wondering, do you have to wear a pad with period underwear? The answer is no. Our high-absorbency styles are designed to stand alone, though they can also be paired with internal products if you need extra coverage. So, if you’re looking for a simpler, more sustainable option that blends security with ease, period panties are worth a closer look.
Comfort
Unlike pads, which can shift, bunch, or feel bulky, period underwear moves with you. Saalt’s designs use soft, breathable fabrics for a smooth, barely-there feel. There’s no sticky adhesive or plastic backing to irritate your skin, and no worries about seams or edges showing through clothes. Plus, there’s no learning curve; just slip it on as you would any other pair of panties. If comfort ranks high on your period priority list, Saalt Wear delivers where pads fall short.
Reliable Absorbency
Saalt period underwear comes in several absorbency levels, from light for spotting to high-capacity options that hold the equivalent of multiple pads. Because the gusset covers more surface area and contours to your body, many users find period panties more reliable, especially overnight or on heavy flow days. Plus, they pair easily with internal products like a menstrual cup or period disc for backup protection if needed.
Health & Safety
Pads sometimes contain fragrances, synthetic dyes, or plastic materials that can irritate sensitive skin. Saalt’s period underwear is made from thoughtfully sourced materials that are not treated with PFAS, and each pair is tested for safety and quality. They’re a great choice if you're looking to avoid potential irritants and minimize the unknowns in your period care routine. As always, good hygiene matters. The CDC recommends changing your menstrual products regularly to help prevent rash or infection, even with reusable options.
Convenience & Ease Of Use
Period underwear is simple: wear, rinse, wash, repeat. No wrappers, applicators, or guesswork. For teens, students, or anyone managing a full schedule, the ability to toss on a pair and go is a major plus. And with styles designed for different flows, it’s easy to build a rotation that meets your needs throughout your entire cycle.
Cost Over Time
Disposable pads require constant restocking, which adds up over time. Period underwear is a long-term investment that can support your cycle for years with proper maintenance. Fewer trips to the store, less packaging waste, and more value over time make it a smart option for budget-conscious and sustainability-minded users alike.
Environmental Impact
Pads are single-use, plastic-heavy, and generate a significant amount of waste over a lifetime. In contrast, Saalt’s reusable period underwear is designed to be washed and worn again and again, helping to divert thousands of disposables from landfills. Pairing period panties with other reusable products like a Saalt Disc or menstrual cup creates a zero-waste routine that’s gentler on your body and the planet.
User Experiences
Once people make the switch to Saalt’s period underwear, they rarely look back. In fact, 9 out of 10 users say they wouldn’t go back to pads or liners. Real users like Kelsey R. share that even on heavy days, she experienced “no leaks, no stains,” and loved the fit for her low-rise pants. Meanwhile, Natalie E. said she actually looked forward to her period just to wear her Saalt underwear, calling them “cuter than a lot of [her] regular underwear” and celebrating the freedom to ditch backup pads altogether.
Michelle C. agreed, noting that Saalt's designs feel nothing like the styles she tried from other brands: “These are cute, they work, and I'm definitely going to buy more!” And for parents? Lani D. shared that after loving her own pair, she got them for her teenage daughter, too. That kind of comfort, confidence, and real-world reliability speaks volumes—and it’s why so many people are choosing period underwear that truly works with their body.
How Do Pads Stack Up Against Period Underwear?
Menstrual pads have been a foundational period product for decades. According to the NHS, they’re designed to be worn inside underwear, with an absorbent core that catches menstrual flow and an adhesive backing to keep them in place. Unlike internal products, pads collect flow externally, acting as a barrier between you and your clothes.
Types Of Pads
Pads come in a wide range of absorbencies and lengths to suit different flow levels and activities. Lighter options (like liners) are used for spotting or as backup with other products, while overnight pads offer added coverage and a longer length for sleeping or heavier flow days. Some include “wings” (folded flaps that wrap around your underwear to help prevent shifting and leaks) while others are wingless for a more minimal profile.
Frequency Of Changing
Most pads are single-use and should be changed every 3 to 4 hours, or more frequently depending on your flow. According to the CDC’s Menstrual Hygiene guidelines, changing menstrual products regularly is essential for maintaining good hygiene and preventing potential irritation or infection.
Materials And Breathability
Pads are typically made with a combination of bleached cotton, synthetic absorbent fibers, plastic liners, and adhesive. These materials are effective at absorbing fluid, but they’re not always breathable, especially during long wear or hot weather. Some users report chafing or discomfort with prolonged use, while others appreciate the low-maintenance design and the familiarity of a product they’ve used for years.
An Overview Of Pros And Cons
Pads are widely accessible, easy to use, and don’t require insertion, making them a go-to choice for many, especially during early cycles or for people who prefer external protection. However, some users find that pads can feel bulky, shift during movement, or cause irritation due to friction or synthetic materials. They also generate more waste compared to reusable alternatives like period underwear.
A Familiar Option With Considerations
For many, pads are a comfort item—simple, reliable, and easy to manage. If you’re new to period care or want a no-fuss option, they can offer peace of mind. But if you’re looking to reduce waste, improve comfort, or minimize exposure to synthetic materials, period underwear may offer a modern alternative with benefits pads can’t always match.
Choosing The Right Period Care For Your Lifestyle
Your daily schedule, comfort preferences, and personal values all shape what makes the most sense for your period. No matter what, your routine deserves products that don’t interfere with your day.
Comfort That Moves With You
If comfort is high on your list, period underwear feels like choosing your favorite pair of undies with superpowers. The gusset layers wick moisture, absorb flow, and help prevent leaks while still feeling soft and breathable against your skin. Whether you’re traveling, heading to class, or navigating an unpredictable day, this kind of support goes a long way.
And for those who are eco-minded or looking to streamline their period routine, reusable options help you cut down on waste and save money over time—no more last-minute drugstore runs or endless boxes of disposables.
Mix And Match For Maximum Peace And Security
No two cycles—or even days—are exactly the same. That’s why many people mix and match their products to suit the moment. You might reach for moisture wicking underwear before an intense workout and switch to a pad overnight. Or maybe you layer both on your heaviest days for added protection.
It’s about tailoring your care to your needs, not the other way around. This approach isn’t just practical; it’s empowering. Knowing you’ve got a solid backup allows you to move through your day without second-guessing yourself. In a world where periods are still misunderstood or underestimated, that peace of mind is everything.
Flexible Care, On Your Terms
Whatever your combination—pads, period underwear, or both—the best solution is the one that supports your lifestyle, your values, and your comfort. At Saalt, we’re here to help you build a routine that feels like it was made for you, because it is.
Make The Switch
At the end of the day, choosing between period underwear vs. pads is a personal decision. Whether you prioritize sustainability, ease of use, or just want to feel secure through every part of your cycle, there’s no wrong choice—only the one that works best for you. With thoughtful design, reliable protection, and flexibility to mix and match, Saalt is here to help you feel confident in whatever care routine you choose.
Read also:
- How To Get Period Blood Out Of Underwear: Step-By-Step Guide
- How To Insert A Menstrual Disc
- How Does Period Underwear Work? Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions About Period Underwear vs. Pads
Can pads cause irritation?
Some people experience irritation from pads, especially those made with synthetic materials, added fragrances, or chemical treatments. Friction, trapped moisture, and sensitivity to common ingredients in conventional pads can lead to redness, itchiness, or general discomfort. If that sounds familiar, switching to a reusable option like Saalt’s period underwear may offer a more comfortable and body-safe alternative.
Are period panties hygienic?
Absolutely. Saalt’s period underwear is designed with multi-layer, moisture-wicking gusset technology that absorbs flow, locks in odor, and helps keep you dry. With proper care, your period underwear stays clean and fresh like any other undergarment. Plus, choosing reusables helps reduce the environmental impact of single-use disposables.
Can you wear period panties for heavy flow?
Of course! Many people confidently use period underwear as primary protection on heavy flow days, or as backup with a Saalt Cup for added reassurance. Saalt’s high-absorbency styles are thoughtfully designed to lock in leaks and keep you supported all day or night, with no bulky feel or compromise on comfort.
Can you wear pads during exercise?
You can, but they’re not always the most comfortable choice. Pads can shift, bunch, or chafe during movement, especially in higher-intensity workouts. That’s why many active people prefer Saalt’s period underwear. Its stay-put fit, breathable fabric, and seamless feel keep you leak-free from your morning yoga to your post-work hikes.
Can you swim while wearing period panties?
Period underwear isn’t made for swimming, since it’s designed to absorb moisture rather than repel it. For pool days or beach trips, a menstrual cup is your best bet for comfortable, invisible protection under your swimsuit.
How do you wash period panties?
Washing period panties is super simple. Rinse your period underwear in cold water after wear to prevent staining. Then toss it in the washing machine on a gentle, cold cycle with mild detergent (skip bleach and fabric softeners). Air dry to maintain absorbency and fabric integrity. With thoughtful care, Saalt’s leakproof underwear is designed to support your cycle—again and again.
