Are Thinx Hi-Waist Period Panties Worth The Money?

Most people with periods know just how inconvenient and painful they can be without the added stress of deciding which period product to use. Tampons, sanitary pads, and menstrual cups are among the most common, but a new contender is on the rise — period panties. Chances are if you've ever looked into buying a pair of period panties, you've heard of Thinx. One of the leaders in the period panty market, Thinx offers many different panty styles.

So, how exactly do period panties work? As outlined by Women's Health, certain types of period panties can be used on their own, but they are often used alongside a menstrual cup or tampon for extra leakage protection. They absorb your blood much like a pad would, but are additionally designed to prevent strong odors and wick moisture like sports apparel.

Moreover, they are much better for the environment. The Independent revealed that pads and tampons can have an impact on the environment that's five to six times worse than period panties due to the fact they cannot be reused. 

According to The New York Times, Thinx Hi-Waist panties are "stylish and secure." Their panties have been lauded by testers for being visually more appealing than regular period panties. Though they are relatively pricey at $35 per pair, they hold up well over time even when put in the dryer.

They supposedly feel just like regular underwear when you aren't actively bleeding but never descend into the realm of being uncomfortable to wear, even when full of blood, notes The New York Times. Plus, if you're worried about any chemicals that may have been used in the process of making Thinx panties, they have been Oeko-Tex certified free from any "harmful substances."

Moreover, Glamour states that the Thinx panties are "breathable" and feature "super-absorbency." The range of styles is also touted as a bonus. Another major plus of Thinx panties is their size range — as of now, their website offers sizes XS-4X. This is a great range that will suit most women, and it also means you can go up a size if you experience the common period symptom of bloating.

However, the Thinx Hi-Waist panties do have some drawbacks. The New York Times mentions that sizing has traditionally run a little small, and that testers felt best when they went a size up from their usual. New sizing was recently released though, which could make a difference if you want the most secure fit. New York Times testers now recommend ordering your regular size.

Another small downside is that the care instructions advise hanging your panties to dry, which could be difficult if you live in a cold climate or a space with not much drying room. Still, testers from The New York Times did state they put their panties in the dryer with no major repercussions.

Additionally, Who What Wear points out that Thinx panties can develop a slight odor after being worn a few times. This odor is just the typical smell most of us associate with periods and can be solved by another wash or a more thorough pre-rinse — here's a guide on how to wash your period panties if you're worried about maintaining them.

Overall, due to the size inclusivity, cute style, and environment-saving qualities, we think the Thinx Hi-Waist period panties are worth the money. Even better, there is a good chance you'll make back your initial investment of $35 through savings within a few months of wearing them.