The healthiest knickers to wear are breathable, well-fitting pairs made from natural fabrics like cotton.

 While style and comfort are key, your choice of underwear can also play an important part in keeping your body’s natural balance in check. Here’s what to look out for when choosing knickers to wear that’ll help you find your perfect match: 

• Which fabrics are the most comfortable

• Different comfort levels of different materials 

• Washing tips to keep your pants fresh for longer

Which fabrics are the most comfortable?

The most comfortable fabrics for knickers are cotton, modal, TENCEL Modal, bamboo viscose, and microfibre with a cotton gusset, as these offer softness, breathability, and support. Cotton remains a top choice for its natural absorbency and kind feel on sensitive skin. Modal and TENCEL Modal provide a silky-smooth touch and wick away moisture, while bamboo viscose is soft and cool against the skin. Microfibre styles are sleek under clothing, but for all-day comfort, a cotton-lined gusset is essential even with synthetics.

How do common materials compare for comfort?

Different materials affect comfort through their breathability, softness, stretch, and support, so it’s helpful to compare their qualities directly.

• Cotton: Highly breathable and absorbent, with medium to high softness (best in organic forms). Cotton with a touch of elastane stretches comfortably for everyday wear. 

• Modal and TENCEL Modal: Exceptionally soft and airy, offering great stretch and moisture management, ideal for those seeking a “barely-there” sensation. 

• Bamboo viscose: Very soft and cool, good for those who find cotton too coarse, with a gentle relaxed fit. 

• Microfibre blends: Silky, stretchy, and smooth under clothes, but less breathable than natural fibres—choose these for a seamless look with a cotton gusset. 

• Lace and mesh: Most comfortable when soft and stretchy, but always pair with a cotton gusset for breathability.

How should you wash knickers to keep them fresh?

To keep your knickers fresh and comfortable, wash them at 30°C on a gentle cycle with mild, fragrance-free detergent, avoid fabric softener, and always air-dry. Warm washes and softeners can damage fibres and reduce breathability, while air-drying preserves elasticity. Separate delicate fabrics in a laundry bag and rotate your pairs so elastic keeps its bounce.

What’s a quick way to remember what materials are comfortable in knickers. 

The comfort essentials for knickers are: cotton or modal for breathability, microfibre for a smooth finish, a cotton gusset, flat or seamless edges, gentle wash, and a fit that stays in place without digging in.