Modibodi reviews: leak proof underwear + period proof swimwear.

February 2023 update: these Modibodi reviews are the most popular post on my blog! This makes me very happy as I put a lot of work into them, and I’ve been using Modibodi since 2017 so I’m very experienced with them and still absolutely recommend their products. And I love that they’re using recycled materials in much of their range now!

Read on for the answers to all of your questions about period proof underwear and swimwear, in the most comprehensive Modibodi reviews you’ll find online.

One of the first blog posts I ever wrote was called Five more sustainable and healthy ways to have a period. There are many reusable period products now, but my favourite is period proof underwear. They’re much more environmentally-friendly than disposable pads or tampons, and I find them more comfortable than menstrual cups and reusable pads.

I’m also an advocate for period proof swimwear now that they’re an option! I’ve given up using my cup completely since swimwear for menstruation became a thing. I never liked it much, and very pleased that there are more waste-free and healthy alternatives available now.

Here I’ll answer all of your questions about period panties and period swimwear, with this detailed review from my experiences with the brand Modibodi. I know there are many period underwear brands available now and ones like Thinx and Ruby Love and also popular, but as I have only used Modibodi personally, they’re all I can comment about. Thankfully for me, they’re also awesome, so I haven’t had to shop around!

Modibodi sent me some of their period swimwear in return for my honest review. Below are all my own thoughts and my own words: I do not publish pre-written text or other people’s ideas, or seek approval from anyone before publishing.

Modibodi review #1:
leak proof underwear review

So I’ve been using menstrual cycle underwear from Modibodi for over six years now, both at home and while travelling overseas, and I’ve never been more confident having my period. They’re really easy to travel with, simple to care for, and I find them much more comfortable and easy to use than menstrual cups.

I recommend Modibodi in my Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide too, along with many other ideas for gifts that reduce waste and are made ethically. Read on for how and why they’re so awesome, and check out the gift guide if you’re in need of some eco-friendly and socially-responsible inspiration!

How does period underwear work? 

I believe all brands have the same idea, which is combining a reusable pad with knickers/panties to make them leak proof underwear. However, from my experience with several brands of washable menstrual pads, period briefs are really, definitely, SO MUCH more comfortable!

Modibodi have several different absorbencies, and they all have a moisture wicking top layer, an absorbent middle layer, and a waterproof bottom layer which provides the leak-proof protection.

In over six years of using Modibodi for every one of my menstrual cycles, I have NEVER had a leak, so I can verify that they do their job well.

Can period underwear be used for other reasons?

Yes, Modibodi’s period knickers are useful for bladder leaks, discharge, and as a back-up for other menstrual items like cups or tampons. 

If you need the underwear for leakage from other products, Modibodi are a safe and comfortable option. Some women who have very heavy flows like to use them this way and feel protected and safe from leaks.

What does leak proof underwear feel like?

Most of the absorbencies feel exactly the same as regular underwear. The heavy flow ones feel a bit more padded, but not as noticeably as reusable or even disposable pads. They are also soft and smooth, unlike disposable pads. And they’re more comfortable than they used to be, with flatter seams now too.

Some women—including me!—felt a bit strange to free-bleed into underwear the first time. Especially if you’re used to tampons or menstrual cups, it definitely feels different. Now, I like the freedom of not having to be plugged up. To me, it feels more natural, but I understand that others find that cups or tampons feel safer.

Do you need to change reusable menstrual underwear throughout the day?

Not like a pad, no. On my heaviest days I use the heavy absorbency, and they last me all day or overnight. I do like to have a quick shower before changing into another pair after waking or after a whole day of heavy flow.

Modibodi’s heavy absorbency holds 20ml of fluid, which is equivalent to three-four tampons or four teaspoons. It doesn’t sound like much, but it has always been enough for me for a whole day or whole night throughout my heavy days. I have never changed mine in the middle of the day, or even wished I could.

However, if you have a very heavy flow you might prefer Modibodi’s new 24 hour absorbency range, which holds up to 50ml or 10 teaspoons! These are also perfect for long travel days, and more frequent incontinence.

Do they get sticky on the top like a pad does?

Thankfully, no! The top layer wicks away fluids and keeps you feeling dry. If a particular area gets quite full after wearing them all day, you might start to notice a bit of fluid on the top, but they still don’t feel gross at that point like many pads do.

Do they smell? Even after wearing them all day?

No! The moisture wicking layer fights bacteria with a non-toxic antimicrobial. I was concerned about that too, especially as pads do smell after awhile. But I’m happy to report that they really are sanitary underwear!

After a whole day of wearing Modibodi during a heavy flow, you will notice some blood when you take them off. But they do a great job of containing all odours, as well as containing fluids and perspiration.

Is period underwear very messy?

Not really, no. They don’t leak or get blood throughout your washing (I’ll explain how to care for them next). But you do have to rinse them by hand and touch some blood, as with all reusable menstrual products. Only with disposables are you able to not touch blood at all, but of course they have many other drawbacks for the environment and your health.

Menstruating is a natural bodily function, and it’s not disgusting or wrong to wash away your blood. Some people like to be able to see how much blood they are releasing, and I’ve found that I understand more about my cycle since using the underwear. But if you have haemophobia or a very high fear of blood, perhaps they’re not for you.

Do absorbent panties get stained?

None of mine have, after constant use for over many years. All absorbencies except for the moisture wicking ones have a black layer in the gusset, regardless of the underwear colour. None of them have faded or and there are no stains on mine, even the heavy ones.

How do you wash reusable period underwear?

It’s quite easy, you rinse them with cold water after use, and then wash them just like any underwear. Modibodi recommends washing in cold water, in a delicates bag. Never use fabric softener with them, and hang them on the line to dry whenever possible.

I usually rinse mine in the shower as it’s warming up, then throw them in the washing machine with my laundry load. As all of the styles contain some polyester, I wash mine in this Microfibre Laundry Bag.

Do Modibodi period briefs shed microfibers?

Yes they do, as do all textiles that contain synthetic fibres. I recommend using a Microfibre Laundry Bag for washing them, to avoid microfibers entering waterways. And I still believe that they are better for the environment than disposable pads and tampons.

What fabric are Modibodi’s period underpants made from? Are they vegan?

There are several materials used, and a vegan range is available. Modibodi’s swimwear and active leggings are vegan, in addition to a range of bikini underwear.

• Vegan:
  Outer – Bamboo/Spandex, Liner – Polyester Spandex & Polyester, Trim – Polyester & Nylon
• Classic and Sensual:
  Outer – Bamboo & Spandex, Liner –  Merino, Spandex & Polyester (only Merino in Moisture-Wicking style), Trim – Polyester & Nylon
• Seamfree:
  Outer – Polyamide Elastane, Liner – Merino, Spandex & Polyester (only Merino in Moisture-wicking style), Trim – Polyurethane
• Contour:
  Outer – Polyester Spandex/Polyester, Liner – Merino, Spandex & Polyester, Trim – Polyester & Nylon
• Maternity briefs:
  Outer – Bamboo & Spandex, Liner – Merino, Spandex & Polyester, Trim – Bamboo & Spandex
• Activewear briefs:
  Outer – Merino Wool, Liner – Merino, Spandex & Polyester (Marino only in Moisture-wicking style), Trim – Polyester & Nylon
• Recycled full brief and recycled seamfree bikini:
  Outer – 73% Recycled Nylon 27% Spandex, Gusset – Merino Wool, Polyester, Polyamide

How do you travel with period absorbing underwear?

I found it simpler than travelling with my menstrual cup. All I did was rinse the underwear after using them, and the kept the rinsed pairs in my wet bag until I had the chance to do laundry. They dry fairly quickly and aren’t as obvious as reusable pads on the clothesline too!

The lighter-flow options are fantastic for days when you think you might start your cycle, or if it seems finished but you’re not quite sure. And the moisture wicking styles are handy for travel to hot and humid places if you worry about perspiration and odours.

During travel, I was especially glad to have leakproof panties. Sometimes a travel journey takes a lot longer than expected, and I always seemed to be in transit during my cycle.

I’ve worn them in a remote village in Northern Thailand for trekking to see elephants in the forest, and I’ve used them while volunteering to help sea turtles on Tioman Island too. I’ve worn them on road trips in Australia and tuk-tuks in Siem Reap, as well as buses, planes, and trains!

With Modibodi I always felt comfortable anywhere we were, and knew I was safe from leaks or an early-arriving period. This is on one of those journeys!

Do they make plus size period panties? 

Yes, Modibodi’s range goes up to 6XL or size 26. They also have suggestions for curvy physiques on their website.

Is their sizing accurate?

I have found all pairs I have tried to fit true-to-size, and have bought several different styles now: I have some sensual high-waist, boyleg, classic bikini, seamfree bikinis, as well as a full brief, a French cut and an x-brief now. The styles I haven’t tried are the the maternity range or thong, but it’s safe to assume their sizing would also be true.

The seamfree styles feel firm at first, as they’re tighter before being worn. But even from the first wear they start to stretch to normal size, and they don’t keep stretching beyond their advertised size. I assure you that they’re comfortable, quickly!

Do they make underwear for your period for teens and tweens?

Yes, there is a range of period pants for girls now too. Adult underwear sizes go down to size 2 or 4XS, which is the equivalent of girl’s size 8-10. Modibodi also has underwear specifically for youth called Red, which has some bright and funky boyshorts and bikini styles in girls sizes 8-16 or XS to L.

Can I return my Modibodi underwear if I’m not happy with them?

Modibodi offers a 60-day trial for first-time customers. That means you can wear a pair of menstrual underwear during two of your cycles, and if you aren’t happy with it, you can return it for a refund (minus shipping costs). This doesn’t apply to purchases made through external suppliers.

You can also request a refund, credit or exchange on fully-priced, unworn items. They must have the hygiene sticker intact and be in their original packaging. Bundle packs are not included as they’re already discounted. See more info on their returns policy webpage.

How long will my period proof panties last? Are they cost-effective?

Modibodi says they will last up to two years with good care, but in my experience, they will last even longer. I wore my original light absorbency and moisture wicking panties for three years before I retired them, and they were in constant rotation each month.

I still wear some of original heavy underwear from 2017! As I only use them during my cycle and each pair only gets worm once a month, they have great longevity.

Modibodi are certainly cost-effective when you compare many years of wear with two boxes of tampons or pads for every period. Like all reusable products, they cost more initially, but over the long run, they’re far cheaper than their disposable counterparts.

Is Modibodi socially responsible?

Modibodi requires that their manufacturers are audited under the Business Social Compliance Initiative, BSCI, which is used to ensure the ethical working conditions in their factories. This includes: freedom to gather, fair working hours and pay, health and safety, no child labour, and following the principles of the International Labor Organisation.

They are also working towards the OEKO-TEX ® STeP process, which certifies a commitment to sustainable production and a process of continuous improvement.

Modibodi also has their own Give a Pair program, which helps customers donate menstrual underwear to women in need across Australia.

And they offer a student discount to anyone registered with Student Beans.

What countries is Modibodi available in?

Modibodi is an Australian brand that can be shipped to many different countries from five depos around the world. As shipping comes at a cost, I suggest purchasing with other girls or women in your life to reduce the financial and environmental burden.

• Period underwear Australia:
  Free shipping for orders over AU$100.
• Period underwear New Zealand:
  Free shipping for orders over NZ$100.
• Period underwear other Oceania:
  Modibodi Australia ships to the Cook Islands, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tahiti and Vanuatu.
• Period underwear Asia, Canada and the Americas:
  Free shipping within the US for orders over US$75, flat rate shipping of $10 to Canada plus taxes and duties.
  Modibodi USA also ships to: Mexico, Bangladesh, Brunei, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Macao, Malaysia, The Phillipines, South Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Taiwan. All prices are in USD.
• Period underwear UK and Northern Ireland:
  Modibodi UK ships within the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland only.
• Period underwear Europe and Republic of Ireland:
  Modibodi EU ships to: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, England, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Poland, Scotland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Wales.

Where to buy Modibodi underwear?

Modibodi is available online and in some selected stores. Please note that their 60-day risk-free trial only applies to order made through Modibodi’s own stores.

AUS/NZ	US/CA	UK/EU
Modibodi Sensual French cut underwear. Image credit: Modibodi.	Modibodi Red youth hipster binikis in Sunny Daze. Image credit: Modibodi.	Modibodi recycled fibre menstrual swimsuit. Image credit: Modibodi.
Shop Modibodi Aus here. Shop Modibodi NZ here.	Shop Modibodi US here.	Shop Modibodi UK here. Shop Modibodi EU here.

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Modibodi review #2:
period proof swimwear review

Isn’t is fantastic that your period and swimming can go together now in a zero waste fashion?!

I began using Modibodi’s swimwear in 2019, and it’s still amazing to me that bathing suits can be period proof! Modibodi’s menstrual underwear is definitely not for swimming in, but their swim technology is.

I tested them while on my cycle in the bath first, so I could move about in private and really see what was happening. I’ve also worn them in public and had no issues at all, so am confident in reviewing them for you.

It’s now 2023 and I have my second pair of Modibodi swim pants, and instead of bikini bottoms I tried their high waist bikini brief this time. This is great for you as I’m experienced with both of their period swimwear cuts!

I’ll answer all of your questions about Modibodi’s swimwear now.

Can you swim on your period?

Yes, you can go swimming on your period, without having to use a tampon! You can use a menstrual cup or sea sponge, and now you can use very comfortable period proof swimwear too.

Modibodi’s swimwear is not designed to be used alone on heavy period days, but can be used on light — moderate days, and as a back-up to other menstrual options. It’s also great to wear if you’re expecting your period, as any surprises will be safely contained.

How do period bathing suit bottoms work?

Modibodi’s swimwear uses their own Modifier Swim Technology, for which the details are a trade secret. I can tell you that gusset has a top layer which stops odours and fights bacteria, and the bottom layer is extra waterproof protection via water-repellent fabric.

What type of Modibodi swimwear is best for me?

You can simply purchase period swim bottoms from Modibodi, in bikini brief style or high-waisted style. Either option is good if you have a bikini top, tank top or rashie that you’re planning to wear with your period bathers, or if you have quite a long body and find that one-piece bathers are often uncomfortable on you.

The high waist bikini has more coverage overall, similar to full brief panties. Choose the bikini brief if you prefer a high-cut leg or lower cut tummy, and if you are or might become pregnant the bikinis are your best choice.

Modibodi has many colours and patterns to choose from now, and many are reversible, giving you two options in one! When I started with this swimwear years ago, black was the only option!

If you’re in the market for a whole new bathing suit or prefer tummy coverage, you can get a one piece from Modibodi instead. You might also prefer a one piece for competitive swimming or for pool exercise. I love the look of their new one-shoulder one pieces, and the wrap-style is so pretty! And as a bonus, they’re all made from recycled materials.

Can period swimwear be used for other reasons?

Yes, Modibodi’s swim range is also suitable for discharge, light bladder leaks and spotting. It’s also excellent to prevent any surprises from your period arriving early!

What do period swim shorts feel like? Is it like wearing a menstrual pad for swimming?

No, not at all. The swimwear feels and looks just like normal bathers. There is no bulkiness or padding (except in the cups if you want padding there).

I find my Modibodi bikini to be very comfortable, and it fits well with no need to continually adjust it. I personally dislike halter-neck tops so was glad to see that both the bikini and one-piece bathing suit had proper straps. The style I have is no longer available: their bikinis now feature crop tops and keyhole tops that look even more comfortable!

And I haven’t worn bikini-style bathing bottoms for many years, as I really hate them riding up my butt. But these have good coverage and don’t move around as I swim. My new high waisted bikini briefs are also super comfy and don’t ride up or as I swim or snorkel.

Do you need to change leak proof swimwear while at the beach or the pool?

No. Modibodi’s swimwear is equivalent to two tampons, or 10ml/two teaspoons of fluid. That is why they’re only for light to moderate period days, so for heavier days it’s recommended to use another product as well.

I actually tested mine in the bath on a heavy flow day and had no leaks, and I see some other women also say their absorbency is greater than the recommendations. But Modibodi makes no guarantees for flows above ‘moderate’ so to err on the safe side, save them for lighter days.

Do period pants for swimming smell?

Modibodi’s do not smell at all, due to the top layer which fights bacteria and odours. I’m not sure how exactly, but there was no smell coming from mine after they had been used.

I even – ahem – tested several functions while in the bath for you, and am happy to report that no odours were detectable! (the things I do for you guys!!)

Are swimwear for periods messy?

Just like menstrual underwear, they contain bodily fluids until you’re ready to wash them. There are no leaks or mess, but you have to rinse them in cold water after use.

Do period bathing suits get stained?

Nope, Modibodi’s are stain-resistant as well as odour-resistant. They have black gussets and do not get marked even with years of use.

How do you wash reusable period swimwear?

After use, rinse them with cold water, and then add to the cold wash cycle in a delicates bag, or wash by hand with mild detergent and line dry. Never use fabric softener with them.

As all of the styles contain some polyester, I wash mine in a Microfibre Laundry Bag.

Do Modibodi’s period bathers shed microfibers?

Yes, like all swimwear made from synthetic fibre does. I wash mine in a Microfibre Laundry Bag.

What fabric are Modibodi’s period swimmers made from? Are they vegan?

Yes, they are vegan! All of Modibodi’s swimwear is now made from recycled materials.

The regular bikini and high waisted briefs are made from:

• Outer – 82% Pre-consumer Recycled Nylon, 18% Spandex
• Lining – 86% Pre-consumer Recycled Nylon, 14% Spandex
• Gusset – 100% Polyester

The crop tops and one-pieces are made from:

• 78% Pre Consumer Recycled Nylon, 22% Lycra Elastane with Rudolf Water Repellent: an eco-friendly, hydrophobic finish that is free from flourine.

Do Modibodi’s waterproof swimwear for periods have sun protection?

Yes, all of the swimwear is rated UPF50+.

You’ll still need a to cover up with a hat, rashie and/or quality sunscreen for full protection though! We choose reef-friendly, palm oil-free sunscreen that is made from natural ingredients.

Do they make plus size period swimmers?

Yep, Modibodi’s swim collection goes up to 2XL or size 18.

Do they make menstrual bathers for teens and tweens?

Yes, Modibodi’s Teen Swimwear is available in sizes Youth 8-10 — Youth 16-18. They feature recycled crop tops, bikini briefs, racerback one pieces, and swim shorts in black as well as colour options.

Is their sizing accurate?

My bikini is accurate and fits well. Happily I have not experienced any riding up from my period swim bottoms! And my bikini top is comfortable and includes removable padding in the cups.

My high-waisted bikini briefs also fit well and are true-to-size, and they’re very comfortable for swimming and snorkelling in.

Can I just buy period bathing suit bottoms?

Yes, you can! Modibodi has the bikini bottoms for sale separately. They’re great to match with your rashie or favourite swimming top, or even for wearing underneath other swimwear or wetsuits.

Can I return my period swimsuit if I’m not happy with it?

Yes, if you’re a new customer to Modibodi, swimwear does qualify for the 60-day refund. So if you use them for two menstrual cycles and you’re not happy with their performance, you can get a full refund (minus the shipping cost). Modibodi has fast and friendly customer service, too.

Where to buy Modibodi period swimwear?

Modibodi is available online and in a few selected stores. Please note that the 60 day risk free trial only applies to purchases from their online stores.

Final thoughts

I hope that’s answered all of your questions about menstrual underwear and period swimwear! I’m really happy with mine and glad there are such great options available for waste-free periods now.

If you have any further queries you can ask in the comment section below, or send me an email and I’d be happy to help.

Please don’t comment about my body though, negatively or positively. This is about the swimwear and panties, not how I look. They are suitable for all shapes and sizes, and I am trying to accept my body as it is and be ok with wearing so little in a very public way.

Less talk about appearance and more talk about new technology and sustainable solutions is what we all need!

Here are some of my other sustainable lifestyle posts:

• Hemp underwear by WAMA reviewed!
• What are the best reusable grocery bags? 11 types ranked for sustainability & durability.
• Environmental solutions from home! Seven ways to reduce your impact today.
• E-bike Melbourne! I rode an ebike in the city traffic.
• Sustainable gift ideas: the ultimate guide for home and travel.
• The best drink bottles for kids! Reusable, reliable and leak-proof. 

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