It was last year that I started my excursion into period underwear. It all began with a single pair of Thinx, which was quickly followed by five more. I was hooked.

They replaced awful disposable panty liners for me, which irritated my poor lady bits and also created a lot of waste.

I use them as backup for when I use a cup, as well as by themselves on days I have a light flow or spotting, aka didn’t need a cup.

But after a few months of use I started noticing some discoloration in the crotch, almost as if they were getting bleached at the center most point of period collection. (TMI? Sorry, not sorry)

I’m not quite sure what is causing this. Possibly it’s that I use a dryer and don’t hang them out to air dry.

I’ve also noticed that the ones with lace have started to fray, the elastic bindings popping out every which way.

It’s because of all of this that I am in search of some new period underwear. Thinx has dominated the market (good for them) but I’m ready to expand my horizons when it comes to period underwear, spreading the love and support of my monthly flow.

Some would suggest giving reusable pads a go, which I have and need to (again), but at the moment I would much prefer period underwear.

So, after a little bit of research, here are my contenders, feel free to weigh in with your thoughts:

+ LunaPads - the MAIA Bikini + Hipster ($31.99-$34.99)

Comparable in price, and I like that there's no lace to fray. Plus you can adjust your absorbency as needed. Plus I've heard good things about their reusable pads so I have high hopes for these.

+ Modibodi - the Classic Bikini ($24.50-$27.50)

I like the coverage of this one. They look simple, comfortable and effective. Not to mention they're $10 cheaper than some of the others.

+ Knixwear - Leak-Proof Bikini ($25)

Can you notice a theme here. I like simple, no frills, comfort when it comes to underwear for my period. I also appreciate these are more inexpensive as well. These would be good for cup back up.

+ Dear Kate - Jackie Hipster Mini + Nellie Hipster Full ($36-$38)

A bit more on the pricy side. They look like fancier period underwear, but I've heard good things about them. They have different absorbencies depending on what you're using them for.

+ Panty Prop - Propkini + Propster ($19.99)

The cheapest on this list. They are once again no frills. They come in various colors as well.

What are your favorite reusable menstrual products? Because right now mine are the combo of period underwear and a menstrual cup. And I'm itching to try some of these on this list.