15 Best Period Swimwear for Teens That Is Both Leakproof and Cute
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
If you're feeling anxious about swimming while on your period, we've got good news for you — there's a swimsuit for that! The best period swimwear provides leakproof protection for every stage of your menstrual cycle, so there's no need to worry about mishaps underwater.
Similar to period underwear, most period swimsuits resemble traditional bathing suits in appearance and feel, with the added benefit of leakproof, built-in liners that absorb blood.
Popular period swimsuit brands, such as Ruby Love and Modibodi, offer period swimwear for teens in sizes ranging from XXS to XXL. They also offer a range of styles, from one-piece suits with adjustable straps to two-piece sets like shorts and high-waisted briefs. While wearing the best period swimwear during your menstrual cycle is a great option, you may want to add a menstrual cup or tampon on those heavy or super-heavy flow days for added protection.
If you're looking to try out period swimwear for the first time, perhaps for your swim team practice or an upcoming vacation, check out our curated list of the best period swimwear for teens (or anyone looking to get started) below. We've tested a few top-rated finds and gathered expert-approved and shopper-favorite picks, including stylish plus-size swimsuits while answering all your pressing questions about period swimwear.
Period swimwear FAQsHow does period swimwear work?
Period swimwear is designed with highly absorbent fabrics and multiple layers to help prevent leaks. “Our period swimwear was inspired by our category-defining and innovative Fresh Fix Technology that we use in our beloved Leakproof underwear with a swim proof twist. The gusset (the part closest to your skin) of our period swimwear features a thin absorbent layer that absorbs blood and washes like normal swimwear,” says Jules Power, senior design director at Knix. She also notes that all swimwear across Knix and Kt by Knix can absorb about 1 tsp to 4.5 tsp of blood, equivalent to about 1 regular tampon to about 2.5 super tampons.
How long can you wear period swimwear?
Everyone’s flow is different, and for some, period swimwear works best as backup protection (in addition to a tampon or cup), while others wear period swimwear alone on lighter flow days. If you're experiencing a heavy flow, you may want to keep an eye on your swim bottoms from time to time to keep note of when would be the right time to change them out.
What to look for in period swimwear
Finding a good fit is key to getting the best wear out of period swimwear. Power recommends finding a swimsuit that gives you a snug fit in the legs and gusset, so you can feel confident and get the best coverage.
Experts also recommend looking for unique features like UltraViolet Protection Factor (UPF), which blocks UV radiation (UVB and UVA) from the skin through a particular fabric. Also, your swimsuit should be able to handle your flow without requiring the use of extra period products, so make sure to check out the absorption levels on every tag.
What is the best type of period swimwear for teens?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer regarding the best period swimwear for teens. The ideal style depends on personal preferences. A one-piece from Modibodi or Ruby Love can provide extra coverage and security on heavier flow days. Compared to lighter or moderate flow days, a two-piece silhouette might make you feel more comfortable. The crucial factor is to pay attention to the projected absorbency.
How to care for period swimwear
It would be best if you cared for your period swimwear the same way you do with regular clothing. In general, you should machine wash it after wearing it on a cold cycle and lay it flat to dry. We also recommend reading the care tag inside the swimsuit, as some brands may recommend avoiding the dryer to prevent shrinkage.
To find the best period swimwear, we tested out a few of our favorite styles using water to see how well the fabric could absorb liquid. We submerged each swimsuit and poured one cup of water onto the interior liner (that part closest to the skin), and waited for about 2-3 minutes to see how much liquid was retained. After that, we wrung each swimsuit back into the measuring cup to see how much water would be released. Our top pick is the Beautikini period swim skirt. We were impressed by how much water it could retain and how dry it felt after being fully submerged.
So, without further ado, let's get into the best period swimwear for teens.
- 1/15
Beautikini
One Piece Leakproof SwimsuitBeautikini’s sporty one-piece has over 300 reviews on Amazon, with many praising the colorblock design, comfortable fit, and quality. It has broad shoulder straps, four layers of leak protection, and a quick-drying UPF 50+ fabric. It also has a figure-flattering silhouette for a snatched look.
Pros: ✓ Supportive shoulder straps ✓UPF 50+ stretch fabric ✓Eliminates odorsCons: X No removable cupsSwimsuit Type: One pieceSizes: XXS–XLAbsorbency: Three tamponsColor(s): 6Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandexCare: Hand wash only
- 2/15
Modibodi
Shimmer Hi-Leg String BottomYes, you can wear a teeny bikini when you’re on your period! Modibodi’s sparkly string bikini bottom may skimp on coverage, but it doesn’t skimp on period protection! It offers super absorbency for heavy flow days and is made with comfortable recycled materials… oh, and it’s adorable.
Pros: ✓ Super absorbent ✓ Adorable style ✓ Size inclusive, up to size 18Cons: X Minimal coverageSwimsuit Type: String bikiniSizes: XS–XXXXLAbsorbency: Super, up to 10 tamponsColor(s): 3Material: Lurex, recycled polyamideCare: Rinse, then gentle cold wash and hang dry
If you prefer extra coverage during your cycle, try these ultra-high-waisted swim bottoms for protection and comfort. They’re available in three go-with-everything colors and have an extended gusset and four layers of protection to keep you drier, longer on light to medium flow days.
Pros: ✓ Supportive, high-coverage fit ✓ Four layers or protection ✓ Extended gussetCons: No major consSwimsuit Type: One pieceSizes: XXS–XXXLAbsorbency: Light, up to three tamponsColor(s): 3Material: 75% polyamide, 25% spandexCare: Machine wash cold. Lay flat to dry
Looking for an option for swim team practice or the swim portion of gym class? This Knix Teen one-piece is sporty, stylish, and made for action, with a high neckline and racerback straps that help it stay in place as you dive and crawl through the water. As an added bonus, it comes highly recommended from Reddit users.
Pros: ✓ Fitted silhouette is great for high activity ✓ Three layers or protection ✓ UPF 50+ materialCons: X Sizing is not super inclusiveSwimsuit Type: One pieceSizes: XXS–XXLAbsorbency: Up to two super tamponsColor(s): 5Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandexCare: Machine wash cold. Lay flat to dry
Nothing says summer like a bright red one-piece suit, and Ruby Love’s take on the eternally cool style is worth every penny. The brand specializes in period swimwear, so you know you’re getting a quality fit and powerful protection. The Bae Watch suit absorbs about three tampons’ worth of blood and won’t swell up in the water. Thick racerback straps are supportive and comfortable for swimming, kayaking, or running on the beach like a TV lifeguard. Because it’s such a timeless silhouette and color, you can wear it now and 10 years down the road.
Pros: ✓ Vibrant red color ✓ Can hold a pad if needed ✓ Won't swell in waterCons: X Sizing is not inclusiveSwimsuit Type: One pieceSizes: XXS–XLAbsorbency: Light, up to three tamponsColor(s): 8Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandexCare: Machine wash gentle. Lay flat to dry
A sleek black one-piece with slim spaghetti straps is a forever kinda thing. You’ll want to wear this classic silhouette for years to come—and it’s such good quality, you can! Knix’s suit absorbs between one and three teaspoons of blood (approximately one to three tampons or pantyliners worth), so it’s best for lighter flow days. As an added bonus, the suit itself is made with UPF 50+ fabric for added sun protection.
Pros: ✓ Adjustable straps ✓ UPF protection ✓ Also available as a regular swimsuitCons: X More expensive than other optionsSwimsuit Type: One pieceSizes: XS–XXXXLAbsorbency: Light, up to three tamponsColor(s): 6Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandexCare: Machine wash gentle. Lay flat to dry
Original photo courtesy of Teen Vogue editor Shauna Beni-Haynes.
For ultimate coverage, opt for a mini swim skirt, like this bright red pick. Inspired by the classic tennis skirt, it has a fast-drying and highly absorbent fabric, and the high-waist silhouette offers a flattering fit. During the water test, we observed that the material absorbed liquid within 30 seconds. When we flipped it over to inspect the exterior fabric, it appeared relatively dry. This swim skirt was the overall winner from the testing group.
Pros: ✓ Mimics a regular skirt ✓ Extremely absorbent ✓Tummy controlCons: X No hygiene linerSwimsuit Type: Mini skirtSizes: XS–XXLAbsorbency: Three tamponsColor(s): 4Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandexCare: Hand wash only
Original photo courtesy of Teen Vogue editor Shauna Beni-Haynes
These swim shorts are perfect for any water sports. They have a four-layer design to prevent side and rear leakage and can hold up to three tampons' worth of blood. We noticed that the fabric took longer to fully absorb the cup of water we poured onto it, but after 30 seconds, the liquid did start to absorb fully.
Pros: ✓ Extremely comfortable ✓Waterproof outer layer ✓UPF 50+Cons: X Sizing runs big for someSwimsuit Type: Swim shortsSizes: XS–XLAbsorbency: Up to three pads or tamponsColor(s): 12Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandexCare: Machine wash cold and lay flat to dry. Do not bleach, iron, or dry clean.
Original photo courtesy of Teen Vogue editor Shauna Beni-Haynes
These blue swim shorts deserve to be shown off by the poolside. They have a three-layer construction, starting with a silky-smooth top layer, followed by an absorbent and leakproof middle layer, and are sealed off with a waterproof outer layer for extra protection. We tested the absorption with one cup of water, and less than half a cup came out when wrung out. The fabric also still felt relatively dry, even after being submerged.
Pros: ✓ Extremely comfortable ✓Waterproof outer layer ✓Rapidly absorbs bloodCons: X Sizing ran big for someSwimsuit Type: Bikini BottomSizes: XXS–XXLAbsorbency: Up to three pads or tamponsColor(s): Sunrise (Orange), and Bubbles (Cobalt Blue)Material: 85% Nylon, 15% SpandexCare: Machine wash cold and lay flat to dry. Do not bleach, iron, or dry clean.
Original photo courtesy of Teen Vogue editor Shauna Beni-Haynes
For stylish and moderate coverage, reach for this body-hugging one-piece swimsuit. It features removable cups and adjustable straps that provide excellent bust support, with a wide range of sizing options available (from A to G cups). The garment is crafted from UPF 50+ fabric for added sun protection. During the water test, we noticed that the interior lining felt significantly thinner than that of the other bottoms, but it still absorbed a full cup of water. We also wrung out less than half a cup.
Pros: ✓ Medium bum coverage ✓Self-lined ✓Cute cutout designCons: X The bust ran small for someSwimsuit Type: One pieceSizes: XS–XXXXL+Absorbency: About two tamponsColor(s): 4Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandexCare: Machine wash cold with mild detergent, gentle cycle, do not bleach, lay flat to dry.
Original photo courtesy of Teen Vogue editor Shauna Beni-Haynes
Our roundup wouldn't be complete without testing a pair of bikini bottoms. This style offers full coverage and is crafted from high-quality fabrics that help keep odors at bay. During the test, we observed that it absorbed a full cup of water, and when wrung out, less than half a cup of water came out. It also has a thicker gusset, but the overall fabric dried spottier than the other swim bottoms tested.
Pros: ✓ Extremely comfortable ✓Waterproof outer layer ✓UPF 50+Cons: X Sizing runs big for someSwimsuit Type: Bikini bottomsSizes: 4XS–3XAbsorbency: Up to three tamponsColor(s): 3Material: 75% Polyamide, 25% SpandexCare: Machine wash cold and lay flat to dry. Do not bleach, iron, or dry clean.
“I never thought I'd be able to swim on my period before, but then I came across these high-rise bikini bottoms, and my life completely changed,” says former Teen Vogue commerce editor Shauna Beni-Haynes. "I love the high-waist fit, and it has a gentle tummy-smoothing fabric that doesn't make me feel restricted. The bottoms also felt secure while I was lying out on a pool chair; the fabric didn't ride up or shift around, and I could toss and turn without causing any worry.
Pros: ✓ Ultra-flattering cut ✓Four-way stretch ✓High-waistedCons: X Runs smallSwimsuit Type: High Rise Bikini BottomSizes: XS–4XLAbsorbency: About three tamponsColor(s): BlackMaterial: 85% Nylon, 15% SpandexCare: Machine wash cold with mild detergent, gentle cycle, do not bleach, lay flat to dry.
Don't just walk — sprint to your nearest computer to snag these bikini briefs. Crafted from eco-friendly fabrics, customers can't stop raving about how soft the bottoms feel against the skin. The features include leakproof layers, a supportive waistband, and UV50+ protection. It's also one of the most affordable options on our list coming in at under $20. Need we say more?
Pros: ✓ Buttery soft ✓ True to size ✓ Fast-dryingCons: X Can only be hand-washedSwimsuit Type: Bikini BriefSizes: XS–3XLAbsorbency: Up to two tamponsColor(s): Navy, Black, Black Li (Low cut), Purple, and TealMaterial: 80% Polyamide, 20% ElastaneCare: Hand Wash Only
Amazon customers love this one-piece swimsuit. Crafted from high-elastic spandex, it provides excellent stretch, flexibility, and leak protection. It features a built-in liner that can hold up to 3-4 tampons, and you won't have to worry about swelling in the water, thanks to the brand's unique leak-proof technology.
Pros: ✓ Flattering fit ✓ Affordable ✓ High elasticityCons: X Runs on the smaller sideSwimsuit Type: One-PieceSizes: XS–XXLAbsorbency: Three tamponsColor(s): BlackMaterial: 80% Nylon, 20% SpandexCare: Machine Wash
- 15/15Ruby Love One-Shoulder Ruffle Swimsuit
This adorable slimming one-shoulder ruffle swimsuit has a built-in absorbent liner that can hold an equivalent of up to three tampons, and it's crafted from a dry-tech mesh that prevents the sides and backs from leaking.
Pros: ✓ It’s the most absorbent option on our list ✓ Leak-proof technologyCons: X More expensiveSwimsuit Type: One-Shoulder Ruffle SwimsuitSizes: XXS–3XLAbsorbency: Up to three tamponsColor(s): BlueMaterial: 80% nylon, 20% spandexCare: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry on low heat, do not use fabric softener
teenvogue
