9 Best Tampons of 2024, According to Fiber Scientists and Gynecologists

These tampons were the overall winners in our test — plus, they're the best organic tampon, too! Tampax organic tampons got high scores for absorbing fluid, producing minimal shedding and being comfortable inserting and removing, according to our testers. Testers liked the ease of use features such as the tabs on the wrapper, making it easier to open and the grips on the applicator for easy insertion. Tampax Pure tampons are less widely accessible compared to Tampax Pearl, according to our testers.

These affordable tampons clinched the second place spot and cost only $0.22 a tampon. In Lab testing, these tampons were absorbent and shed minimally. Testers especially liked that these tampons were super comfortable and the packaging was quiet when opening — a huge complaint with other brands. Plus, this is one of the few styles with an excellent range of sizes available — this kit has three different absorbencies as your cycle changes.

These organic tampons were top performers and are made by Seventh Generation, which is a B Corp company with an ethical ethos. They use no fragrances, dyes or chlorine bleach when producing these tampons. Our testers gave these tampons high scores for comfort, while our Lab tests found them absorbent too. We love that this brand focuses on doing good by using recyclable packaging and donates to nonprofits providing period care for low-income communities. Some testers had trouble finding them in certain reatilers.

If you have never used a tampon before, Tampax Radiant is the perfect place to start. These tampons feature a plastic applicator with a grip that our testers said made for easier insertion. GH analysts found that they had a lower absorbency than other styles. These were the only style of tampons tested to feature resealable wrappers for discreet disposal, which was a favorite feature among our testers!

When it came to tampons to wear when exercising or swimming, our panel highly recommended Playtex Sport tampons. Testers liked the contoured plastic applicator and the grip for a more comfortable insertion. Some testers wish the packaging was more discreet. Note that these have a longer string, so make sure it’s tucked away when at the beach.

In our Lab tests, these o.b. Organic tampons received high scores for holding onto fluid to prevent leaks. Our testers found these 100% organic cotton tampons comfy to remove, ideal when changing your tampon frequently. They didn't absorb as much as other styles, so they are great if you have a lighter flow. Tampax Pearl and Lola offer "light" absorbencies for those with very light flows.

Playtex Simply Gentle Glide tampons are one of the few styles with a plastic applicator available in ultra size. Our testers gave them high scores for being comfortable to wear and easy to use. When GH analysts removed the tampon from the applicator, we did notice some shedding. Keep in mind that ultra tampons should only be used when you know you have a heavier flow and need maximum protection. There is limited online stock for this style, so GH pros also recommend Tampax Pearl in size ultra.

Subscription boxes make it easy to always have the products you need once your period arrives — never be caught off guard without your favorite tampon. Lola subscription boxes let you choose a variety of tampons and pads to be included in each shipment. This tampon brand offers light tampons (not common in many brands), which our testers found comfortable to wear and remove. In Lab testing, this style did show more leaks than other tampons tested.

If you don’t like using an applicator, want to produce less waste or are looking for a plastic-free tampon, o.b. original tampons are the top tested no-applicator style. They feature a pocket at the base to keep your fingers protected when inserting. Plus, these tampons have an extra-long string, making for easy removal. GH analysts found these to absorb less fluid, which was consistent with other non-applicator styles.