How often do you change your period underwear?
A Practical Guide to Staying Fresh, Comfortable, and Leak-Free
Period underwear is a reusable, eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. But a common question many people ask is:
👉 "How often do I need to change it?"
The answer depends on a few factors:
-
Your menstrual flow level
-
The absorbency of the underwear
-
The type of day (working, sleeping, heavy activity, etc.)
Let’s break it down 👇
🕓 General Rule of Thumb
Most period underwear can be worn for 6 to 12 hours, depending on the absorbency and your flow.
Flow Level | Change Every... |
---|---|
Light | 10–12 hours |
Medium | 6–8 hours |
Heavy | 4–6 hours |
Note: Even if you don’t feel wet, it’s best to change before the underwear becomes fully saturated to prevent leaks and odor.
🩸 Factors That Affect How Often to Change
1. Absorbency of the Underwear
Some period panties, like NYX Collection’s 4-Layer Leakproof Panties, can hold the equivalent of 2–4 tampons worth of blood. Always check the product’s description for flow level (light, medium, or heavy).
2. Your Menstrual Flow
Your period is usually heavier on days 1–2. You may need to change more frequently on those days and less often later in your cycle.
3. Daytime vs. Nighttime
Many people wear one pair during the day and another while sleeping. A fresh pair at bedtime helps prevent overnight leaks and keeps you comfortable.
4. Comfort & Hygiene
If you feel damp, notice odor, or are approaching the 8–12 hour mark—change immediately, even if you think there’s more capacity left.
🧺 How Many Pairs Do You Need?
Depending on how often you wash and your flow, most people need 4–6 pairs of period underwear to get through one cycle comfortably.
🌱 Final Tips
-
Always wash your period underwear after each use
-
Keep a spare pair with you when you’re out
-
Use them alone or as backup with a menstrual cup/disc on heavy days
Want reliable, long-lasting period protection?
🛍️ Try NYX Collection’s Period Underwear — made with breathable, body-safe fabric and 4-layer absorbency tech for light to heavy flows.