News

Jul 15, 2023

The 17 Best Cotton Underwear For Women Of 2023

Women's Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in. Why Trust Us? A need, not a want! From sexy lingerie to moisture-wicking thongs, everyone

Women's Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in. Why Trust Us?

A need, not a want!

From sexy lingerie to moisture-wicking thongs, everyone has their own unique preferences when it comes to their fave underwear. But nothing (and I mean nothing) beats the comfort and breathability of a trusty pair of cotton underwear. Known for being super absorbent and soft, cotton underwear is the perfect sidekick to your workouts or long days out and about. Plus, you don't have to worry about chafing or irritation while you sweat, since it's legit made for sensitive skin.

Unlike synthetic materials, which may cause excessive sweating and less air circulation, "Cotton underwear provides breathability, keeping you cool and dry," says Ra’el Cohen, co-founder and chief creative officer of ThirdLove. This is beneficial, since "the water-wicking fabric reduces the likelihood of moisture-related issues such as rashes and discomfort." Synthetic materials can also cause mild irritation on the skin (especially on a hot day), but Cohen adds that cotton is suitable for individuals seeking comfort or looking to reduce their risk of discomfort and chafing.

In terms of vaginal health, cotton is also the superior option if you want to avoid yeast infections, explains Jessica Shepherd, MD, MD, ob-gyn at the University of Illinois at Chicago and chief medical officer at Verywell Health. "Yeast infections are more likely to be caused by wearing underwear made from synthetic materials. Therefore, cotton is very helpful in minimizing your risk."

"Your cotton underwear should be made of at least 90 percent cotton," says Deepa Ryan, Founder of Peachez. "Some underwear may also have 10 percent elastane to give them a stretchy finish." Although cotton is known for its comfort and breathability, Ryan understands that it may not be your first choice in the aesthetics realm (hi, satin and silk). "In any case, be sure that the gussets of all your underwear are made of cotton to allow for moisture absorption, no matter the fabric of the underwear itself," she advises.

So, are you ready to try out a new pair of cotton underwear? See below for the 17 best cotton underwear for women in 2023, according to experts, editors, and rave reviews. Shop brands like Skims, Parade, Aerie, and Amazon, below.

These high-waisted underwear are perfect underneath a tight dress when you don't want to wear shapewear but you still want to smooth out your curves. According to the brand, you can't see any panty lines when you wear these briefs. The added tummy support is also a plus, and, according to reviewers, the waistband doesn't roll down or bunch either.

Another perk: They run from a size small all the way up to 5X, so a wide range of body types are accommodated for.

Rave Review: "I only do reviews for things that actually solve the problem I bought it for. These panties are perfect under clingy summer dresses. I mean zero indention line at the waist/hip."

While you may know Calvin Klein for its famous bralettes, the brand's underwear is equally as cozy. Case in point: these super soft Cotton Stretch Bikini panties. Made with cotton and elastane, they're cozy enough to wear all day without slacking on shape retention.

I own two pairs of these underwear, and I love how, even after weekly use, they never stretch out. Every time I put them on, they feel just as stretchy and smoothing as they did they first time I wore them. While I love to lounge in these, I also recommend them for the gym as they contour my hips and tummy under my leggings.

Rave Review: "I was on the hunt for a good, comfortable pair of underwear and decided to give these a try. I am so happy I did! They are so comfy. The waistband feels great—no digging in. The underwear is soft and stretchy and the fit is perfect."

According to Cohen, this pair of underwear is created with a unique blend of organic cotton fibers that are naturally soft and breathable. "This ensures lasting comfort throughout the day." In true Thirdlove form, its irritation-free fabric is comforting on sensitive skin.

Rave Review: This product is new, so it does not yet have rave reviews. The WH team will update this article in the next few weeks once reviews start to populate.

Culayii's underwear is made of both cotton and bamboo, which provide the perfect amount of stretch and fit. Equipped with full-back coverage and a double-layer crotch, reviewers add that their low-waisted, smoothing fit is great for those with curves.

"I am a size 12 and I ordered a large," writes one five-star reviewer. "These are full-coverage and don’t ride up your butt or down your belly at all."Rave Reviews: "These are the best underwear. They are great quality and have great stretch. If you have curves and a butt, these are what you want!"

Women's Health assistant editor Naydeline Mejia loves these elegant cotton underwear. "I love Cou Cou Intimates' panties because they're breathable, super comfortable, and just very chic. The French lace detailing is a welcome addition! Plus, they're made from 100 percent organic cotton."

Although they have lace, these cute panties are seamless enough to wear under a slip dress or lightweight skirt, so you don't have to worry about any unwanted panty lines. You can also buy a matching top to pair them with.

Rave Review: "These are honestly the best thongs I’ve ever purchased. So lightweight and comfortable. Definitely buying these in white."

These thongs are made with a super breathable, seamless fabric that moves with you, so they're great for the gym. Reviewers also love that they have enough material to provide coverage without bunching up in the crotch area. One even said she wears these underwear and nothing else because of their softness.

Rave Review: "I wear these practically everyday. I bought a bunch more pairs through a friend’s account and I’m obsessed. They fit as advertised and they're soft."

Another recommendation from Mejia, these Aerie Boybriefs are known for being suuuper soft. An added perk: They stay put and don't ride up in the back (which, if you've ever worn briefs, is hard to come by). One reviewer even said this style is her all-time favorite because the lace is so soft and doesn't leave imprints on her skin.

Rave Review: "This is seriously my fave style of undies! I have them in almost every color! The comfort is unmatched! I’m 5'5", 145 pounds, and the medium is great on me. 10/10 definitely get these!"

Turn your underwear game up a notch (or two) with these sexy briefs from Peachez. The back is slightly see-through for a bit of flare, and the front features a gorgeous scallop lace design and double string holds on both sides. But this isn't the only style that Peachez offers. The brand also has a subscription service, so you can opt in to receive a surprise package of brand new underwear at your doorstep every month. Sounds convenient, right?

Rave Review: There are no reviews for this product yet, but Ryan says to look for underwear that are made with at least 90 percent cotton. This pair outdoes that recommendation, as it's made with 100 percent organic cotton.

In a conversation with my sister yesterday, she was telling me how much she despises thongs for their constricting feel. I told her that once she tries these panties, she'll be an official convert.

The high-quality cotton in the fabric makes this thong uber comfy, and they don't get stuck in any unwanted areas (IYKYK). If you're worried about them being too tight, you can safely size up without worrying they'll be too baggy.

Rave Review: "These are my go-to underwear. I have purchased four packs now to replace all my Victoria's Secret underwear that I previously thought were the 'best'. I recommended them to my sister, who only uses cotton, and she loves them as well. They have the perfect amount of stretch, don't show lines, and feel like you're wearing nothing! I can't recommend enough."

Sometimes, underwear doesn't feel protective enough, but these rib boxers from Skims are the perfect stand-in. Super high-waisted, they hold in your tummy when you feel extra bloated if you want that smooth appearance.

During your time of the month, they're a great option for sleeping shorts. Pro tip: Put your pad in the gusset of these shorts if you want it to stay in place all night. It's time to finally put your worries about leakage to rest.

Rave Review: "I’m so happy with my purchase. These really are such nice fitting bottoms. They’re comfortable and almost feel like you’re not wearing anything. I’m 5’0, 115 pounds, and got a size XS. PERFECT!"

Everyone has a pair of underwear they wish they could wear every single day, and these provide comfort that no other undies can quite match. Besides their snug fit and super cozy fabric, they're sustainable so you can feel extra good while wearing them.

Check out Pact's website to learn about their sustainability efforts. A quick synopsis: They use organic cotton, saving seven gallons of water per pair of underwear, partner with Fair Trade factories for safe working conditions, and collaborate with SimpliZero to offset their entire supply chain's carbon footprint. Convinced yet?

Rave Review: "Best undies ever and I've been a loyal customer for many years. I literally wear them out then shop for more. Always a great feel and I enjoy shopping while doing something good for the environment."

Everlane's cotton underwear shows no signs through your clothing, which is why reviewers love wearing them to the gym and out on the town. They feature a super soft fabric alongside a tagless design and ultra-smooth waistband, so you can trust them to stay out of sight and out of mind all day.

Rave Review: "These are actually my first thongs. I looked at many other options before settling on these and I'm impressed! I still have to get used to wearing a thong, but the fit is great and the fabric is so comfy. It doesn't pinch my skin like other panties!"

If you're anything like me, you love a G-string thong because they're basically invisible. This pair (it comes in a pack of 10!) is exactly that and more. Made with a double layer of cotton for added protection, these panties are full-coverage in the crotch area without slacking on breathability. The super stretchy waistband doesn't feel constricting, and users love that they have a low-rise design to pair with jeans, yoga pants, leggings, and the list goes on.

Rave Review: "I rarely write reviews, but wanted to make sure to leave one for this item. These are the most comfortable things EVER. I feel like I have nothing on when I wear them. I am 5'7" and 123 pounds and I bought a small, which fits me absolutely perfect. Very happy with this purchase!"

It's important to take extra care down there during the summer months (que sweat and excess moisture). Your first step to ensuring summer-long vaginal health: moisture-wicking, breathable panties. This pair in particular has a double layer crotch, which provides that cool, dry, and comfortable feeling you wish all your undies had.

Rave Review: "I bought this pack because I like the bikini-cut style in underwear, and you can never go wrong with the color black. They feel nice and comfortable, and they don't ride up. Will be buying more in the future!"

You may have heard of a string thong, but have you ever tried a string cheeky? One of Parade's bestsellers, this pair of underwear is made from the brand's upcycled cotton blend and provides barely-there string coverage without feeling flimsy. They're totally invisible under leggings or tight dresses, so you can rest assured knowing your panty lines are well hidden.

Rave Review: "This was one of my first purchases from Parade and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the underwear! It’s super soft to the touch and I’m excited to wear it. The extra inclusion of stickers and a bandana in my package was awesome to find, too."

Rael is known for its super high-quality period products—think tampons, heating patches, and wipes—but its Reusable Period Underwear might just be a new fan-favorite. It's made with a soft, stretchy fabric that hugs your hips without feeling constricting. These underwear also absorb up to three tampons-worth of blood, so you can finally enjoy your day without worrying about bleeding through.

Rave Review: "I love their period underwear line. The underwear is so absorbent and feels so comfortable and invisible under clothes. I couldn't ask for a better period underwear"

During pregnancy, the last thing you want is to feel constricted. If you're in need of a pair of comfy, supportive underwear, search no further than Angelhood's Maternity Underwear. The low-cut fit and crossover design holds your bump securely without applying pressure. Reviewers also say there's no signs of riding up or rolling either, making them even more reliable throughout those nine months.

Rave Review: "Love these! Anything to make me more comfortable at 33 weeks pregnant is a must and these bad boys are fabulous. 10 out of 10 would recommend!"

For the past month, Women’s Health associate e-commerce editor Lily Wohlner has been researching the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated cotton underwear for women. Our team consulted three experts for the story and filtered through thousands of product reviews to determine the best cotton underwear for a wide range of preferences.

Lily Wohlner is the Associate E-Commerce Editor of Women’s Health. An expert in recommending the best products to add-to-cart, she knows what it takes for a product to receive a solid five stars (especially when it comes to beauty!). Starting her career as a freelance makeup artist, Lily has since moved to the editorial world, where she has generated content for brands including Oribe, NewBeauty, Dermstore, SkinStore, and LOOKFANTASTIC. When she’s not zenning out with a pore-clearing mask, the Lower East Side dweller is cheffing up a new recipe with her roommate or thrifting for the perfect pair of blue jeans. Follow her on Instagram.

54 Best Christmas Gift Ideas To Give In 2023

58 Best White Elephant Gifts Worth Stealing

23 Best Strap-Ons You Can Shop Online, Per Experts

Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2023 Legging Deals

12 Best Sunscreens For Kids, Per Experts

12 Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss In 2023,

The 10 Best Pilates Rings Of 2023, Per Trainers

15 Expert-Recommended Running Shoes For Flat Feet

11 Best Training Shoes Of 2023, Tested

The 17 Best Matching Workout Sets Of 2023

The 10 Best Mattresses For Back Pain In 2023

56 Gift Ideas Your Girlfriend Will Love