
Summary
Peruse the most popular incontinence products available today to find what works best for you and your needs. This guide goes through the most popular incontinence products from every incontinence category, breaking down their purpose, features, and specifications.
Introduction
Managing incontinence can add significant stress to your life, as it can disrupt daily activities and your favorite hobbies. However, with the right incontinence product, it doesn't have to be that way. In this comprehensive guide, we will go over the most common incontinence products available and the products customers like you love to use for managing incontinence and enjoying their daily lives.
Knowing Your Incontinence Level
Choosing the right incontinence product starts with knowing your incontinence level. Incontinence levels range from extra light to maximum; most manufacturers categorize incontinence levels as light, moderate, or heavy. Read on to learn more about incontinence levels and what you may experience with each level:
Light:
Leaks or dribbles occur when triggered by sneezing, coughing, running, jumping, etc. The leakage is minimal and generally only affects the underwear.
Recommended incontinence products:
- Bladder control pads
- Pull-up diaper
- Panty liners
Moderate:
Heavier leakage or streams that occur more frequently (with or without triggers). This type of leakage may soak through your clothing. You may feel the need to void but have trouble making it to the toilet in time.
Recommended incontinence products:
- Pull-up diaper
- Diapers with tabs
- Underpads
- High absorbency bladder control pads
Heavy:
Larger gushes or steady leakage that occurs throughout the day (and night). You may not feel the need to void and leakage may spread to the floor, bedding, or furniture.
Recommended incontinence products:
- Diapers with tabs
- Pull-up briefs
- Booster pads (with a primary incontinence product)
Determining incontinence level
Many incontinence products advertise levels of absorbency in milliliters. Your doctor may have you conduct the pad weight test1 to approximate your incontinence level. You will need a fresh bladder control pad, a resealable, airtight bag, and a digital scale.
- Place the unused pad in the resealable bag and weigh it in grams (set the scale to zero before weighing).
- Wear the pad in your underwear until it is "full" (thoroughly soaked).
- Place the used pad in the resealable bag and weigh it again with the same scale.
- To calculate the leakage amount in grams, subtract the dry weight from the wet weight (1 gram equals 1 milliliter).
- Bring your findings to your doctor.
Understanding Your Options
There are many types of incontinence products available today and it can be hard to know where to start when buying your first one. Understanding the most commonly used incontinence products and what they do can help you begin your research. The most common types of incontinence products are:
Adult Diapers with Tabs
Adult diapers with tab closures are usually recommended for those with heavy incontinence and low to moderate mobility. They are often designed for overnight use and/or all-day protection.
Bladder Control Pads
Bladder control pads (insert pads) are slim pads worn in regular underwear. They are generally recommended for light to moderate incontinence, especially for women experiencing incontinence issues after childbirth.
Booster Pads
Booster pads extend the protection of your primary incontinence garment and are usually worn inside disposable briefs or underwear. Booster pads provide additional protection against leaks and dribbles, protecting your bedding and clothing.
Protective Underpads
Incontinence underpads are large, protective coverage pads for bedding and furniture, preventing fluid from seeping through and causing damage. Underpads are used in conjunction with incontinence garments for optimal protection.
Pull-Up Underwear
Pull-up underwear (also known as pull-up diapers) is ideal for active adults with high mobility. Many pull-up incontinence products are designed to look and feel like traditional underwear, allowing for discretion, comfort, and flexibility.
Most Popular Products for Managing Incontinence
There are many incontinence management products available. We have compiled a list of popular products from each category of incontinence management products to help you choose the products that best fit your needs and lifestyle.
- Best of Adult Diapers with Tabs
- Best of Pull-Up Underwear
- Best of Overnight Adult Diapers
- Best of Bariatric Incontinence Briefs
- Best of Plastic Incontinence Pants
- Best of Washable Incontinence Underwear
- Best of Insert Pads
- Best of Booster Pads
- Best of Men's Incontinence Pads
- Best of Disposable Underpads
- Best of Washable Underpads
- Best of Mattress Pads
- Best of Gentle Cleansing Wipes
- Best of Diaper Rash Cream
- Best of Odor Control Cleansers
- Best of Antibacterial Incontinence Wipes
- Best of Incontinence Clamps
- Best of Men's Urinary Guards
- Best of Women's Bladder Control Pads
- Best of Kegel Exercise Tools
- Best of Vaginal Pelvic Weights
- Best of Adult Swim Diapers
- Best of Lightweight Mesh Underwear
Best of Adult Diapers with Tabs
The Prevail Per-Fit 360 briefs combine maximum absorbency and breathable material for comfortable all-day wear for individuals with moderate to heavy incontinence. Prevail's MaxSorb technology converts moisture into a gel, preventing leaks and keeping the skin dry and clean. DirectLock panels make these briefs simple to wear and remove, providing an adjustable fit.
Features and Benefits
- OdorGuard Helps Neutralize Odors Before They Start
- Dual Layered Core Keeps Moisture Away From Skin
- Expandex Wings Provide a Flexible, Comfortable Fit
- Microclimate Care Prevents Heat Buildup
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Moderate to Heavy
- Gender: Unisex
- Size Options: 1 - 3 (Waist Sizes 26 to 73 Inch)
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"Love these. The one strip tab saves time and helps in a near perfect fit. They are particularly appreciated for overnight use as they absorb more and still keeps the skin dry. Just ordered my second case."
Best of Pull-Up Underwear
Prevail Daily Underwear is designed to fit and feel like normal underwear, allowing for discretion while offering high absorbency. MaxSorb gel technology locks up moisture, keeping the user dry and clean all day. The pull-up design is great for those with an active lifestyle and high mobility.
Features and Benefits
- SkinSmart Fabric Is Infused With Vitamin E, Aloe, and Chamomile
- Flexible Elastic Conforms to Body Shape for Comfortable, Discreet Fit
- Cloth-Like Outer Layer Prevents Conspicuous Rustling Noises
- OdorGuard Technology Locks Away Unpleasant Smells
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Moderate to Heavy
- Gender: Unisex
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"The ONLY pull-up that stays in place- true to size and elastic in all the necessary places to keep in ANY leak."
Best of Overnight Adult Diapers with Tabs
Tranquility All-Through-the-Night briefs give users peace of mind with reliable overnight protection by accommodating multiple voids. Kufguard leg cuffs channel urine to the superabsorbent core, locking moisture away and keeping you feeling dry and clean. The plastic backing provides extra protection against leakage, protecting your clothes and bedding.
Features and Benefits
- Elastic Leg Cuffs Provide Leakage Protection
- Ultra-Heavy Absorbency for Confident Overnight Use
- Odor Control System Neutralizes Unpleasant Odors
- Wetness Indicator Signals When It’s Time To Change
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Heavy
- Gender: Unisex
- Incontinence Type: Urinary
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Size Options: X Small - X Large (Waist Sizes 18 to 64 Inch)
Customer Review
"These all-thru-the night briefs have been a game changer. No more leaking on clothing and bedding. I do recommend these briefs along with a heavy duty under pad. It will be well worth the investment."
Best of Bariatric Incontinence Briefs
Tranquility Air-Plus briefs are designed with microscopic pores that allow moisture and vapor to escape for 100% breathability and comfort. Flexible side panels allow for a snug yet comfortable fit and micro-hook tabs allow for detaching and reattaching as needed. The wetness indicator changes color to signal caregivers when it is time to change the garment.
Features and Benefits
- 100% Breathable Material for Skin Protection and Comfort
- Clothlike, Stretchable Side Panels for Conforming Fit
- Microhook Closure Enables Repositioning Tabs As Needed
- Sizes Range up to 5XL To Accommodate Most Users
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Heavy
- Gender: Unisex
- Incontinence Type: Urinary, Fecal
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Size Options: 4 - 5X Large (Waist Size 70 to 106 Inch)
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"I am bedridden and I do not have over night care that can help me use the restroom so I wear briefs. The tranquility air plus are amazing. I don’t feel wet if I have an accident. They keep me and the bed dry. "
Best of Plastic Incontinence Pants
Priva Vinyl Waterproof Pull-On Pants are worn over disposable incontinence garments for additional protection. This machine-washable garment can be used multiple times to boost your primary incontinence protection. The soft vinyl is gentle on the skin while still being discreet, with no embarrassing rustling sounds.
Features and Benefits
- Washable Design Allows for Multiple Uses
- Elastic Waist and Leg Gathers Are Gentle on the Skin
- Soft Vinyl Material Eliminates Crinkling Sounds
- Spill Block Protection Prevents Mess
Specifications
- Gender: Unisex
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Material: Vinyl
- Usage: Reusable
Customer Review
"Bought 2 3 packs of medium vinyl pants. I love them. They are very comfortable and soft. Sadly if you don't wash them regularly they get stiff and crinkly. I plan on buying more when funding permits. I primarily use them as underwear alone, always have since I was a kid."
Best of Washable Incontinence Underwear
Salk HealthDri Washable Briefs offer the same absorbency as disposable incontinence products, making it a cost-effective solution that saves money in the long run. HealthDri briefs can be washed and dried over 300 times, and they have the feel and look of regular underwear for optimal comfort and discretion.
Features and Benefits
- Durable Design Holds Up to Over 300 Washes
- Wears and Feels Like Traditional Underwear
- Fully Functional Fly for Easy Donning and Doffing
- Soft Cotton Material for Comfortable Wear
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Heavy
- Gender: Male
- Incontinence Type: Urinary
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Usage: Reusable
Customer Review
"Excellent briefs - soft cotton with wide, comfortable banding. The padding is thick and very efficient, with a closure flap that overlaps down (instead of up). These fit well and disappear under a pair of jeans. Thank you"
Best of Insert Pads
Prevail Daily Pant Liners are worn inside regular underwear for light to moderate incontinence protection. Their contoured shape provides extra protection by preventing leaks, and the full-length adhesive strip secures the liner in place.
Features and Benefits
- Cloth-Like Outer Fabric Is Comfortable and Discreet
- MaxSorb Gel Technology Wicks Moisture Away from Skin
- Omni OdorGuard Neutralizes Smells
- Full-Length Adhesive Strip
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Light to Moderate
- Gender: Unisex
- Incontinence Type: Urinary
Customer Review
"This product is excellent and works extremely well. It has tremendous absorbency and has changed my mom's life and given her much more freedom after her stroke."
Best of Booster Pads
Tranquility TopLiner pads extend the wear time of your incontinence products, absorbing to full capacity before passing fluid to the primary garment. The thin and flexible design can be positioned wherever additional absorption is needed for leakproof protection.
Features and Benefits
- Flow-Through Design Passes Fluid to Primary Garment When Full
- Clothlike Backsheet Makes Pad Soft and Discreet
- Secure Adhesive Strip Holds Pad in Place
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Light
- Gender: Unisex
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Size Options: Mini, Standard, Super, Contour, Super-Plus Contour
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"Use these in diapers at night for my husband. During the day he wears guards. I have put one on top of his guard during the day just in case as his main problem is nighttime. Total lifesaver."
Best of Men's Incontinence Pads
The Coloplast Manhood Absorbent Pouch is a discreet solution for light incontinence. It attaches securely to regular underwear for all-day protection. The pouch seamlessly fits into an active person's lifestyle, allowing them to enjoy daily activities confidently without worrying about leaks.
Features and Benefits
- Low-Profile Design Won’t Show Through Clothing
- Holds Up to 250 Milliliters of Fluid
- Wide Adhesive Band Secures to Underwear
- Soft Multilayer Material Comfortable for All-Day Wear
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Light to Moderate
- Fluid Capacity: 8 Ounces
- Gender: Male
- Incontinence Type: Urinary
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"fit is good, stays in place."
Best of Disposable Underpads
McKesson Ultra Underpads protect bedding, chairs, and other furniture by drawing liquid into its superabsorbent polymer core. The polymer material reduces the pH in urine, reducing unpleasant odors and protecting skin health.
Features and Benefits
- Highly Absorbent Core Locks Away Moisture
- Nonwoven Edges Are Gentle on the Skin
- Polymer Material Reduces pH in Urine for Odor Control
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Heavy
- Incontinence Type: Urinary
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"Handy! Holds more than I thought they would. Does not fall apart, easy to roll and toss. When replacing a soiled one it's a smooth transition for the patient."
Best of Washable Underpads
The Cardinal Health Essentials Reusable Underpad is a cost-effective alternative to disposable pads. These soft, quilted underpads are machine washable and can be used multiple times. The PVC back sheet is waterproof and slip-resistant, ensuring it remains securely in place while protecting furniture and bedding from fluid damage.
Features and Benefits
- Waterproof PVC Backing Prevents Fluid Seeping Through
- Non-Slip Design Helps Keep Pad in Place
- Soft, Quilted Material Is Gentle On and Protects the Skin
- Machine Washable Design Holds Up to Numerous Uses
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Moderate
- Incontinence Type: Urinary
- Fluid Capacity: 8 Ounces
- Usage: Reusable
Customer Review
"The pads are very absorbent. Nothing leaks through. They are also very strong and durable. We can use the pad to shift my husband up in the bed without issue. We have also washed the pads multiple times and they come out of the wash in great condition."
Best of Mattress Covers
The Frostlite Mattress Cover protects your mattress by preventing fluid penetration. This cost-effective, protective solution is easy to keep clean and holds up to multiple washes. This waterproof mattress pad can be used with underpads for extra protection.
Features and Benefits
- 3-Gauge Vinyl Material Is Durable and Waterproof
- Waterproof Pad Prevents Fluid From Reaching Mattress
- Machine Washable for Multiple Uses
Specifications
- Color: White
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Material: Vinyl
- Usage: Reusable
Best of Gentle Cleansing Wipes
PROCare Cleansing Wipes make incontinence clean-up convenient with their rinse-free formula. They are gentle on the skin and feature vitamin E and aloe vera to treat and prevent irritated skin. Tear-resistant, durable material makes these wipes reliable especially when cleaning up bigger messes.
Features and Benefits
- Single-Hand Dispensing for Convenient Use
- Aloe Vera and Vitamin E Soothe Irritated Skin
- Tear Resistant Material Holds Up to Large Messes
- Alcohol-Free Formula To Prevent Dry Skin
Specifications
- Ingredients: Aloe Vera and Vitamin E
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Material: Spunlace Fabric
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"I love them! They are gentle yet thorough for cleaning areas needing cleaned! Nice scent, not flowery! No alcohol so they don't dry out my skin!"
Best of Diaper Rash Cream
Calmoseptine Ointment was developed to treat and prevent diaper rash, creating a moisture barrier that protects the skin. Active ingredients zinc oxide block out moisture and other toxins, while menthol cools and calms irritated skin. Calmoseptine can also be used to soothe rashes, yeast infections, eczema, hemorrhoids, and more.
Features and Benefits
- Menthol Soothes Irritation and Inflammation
- Zinc Oxide Creates a Moisture Barrier for Protection
- Cream Does Not Need To Be Removed
Specifications
- Active Ingredients: Menthol (0.44%) and Zinc Oxide (20.6%)
- Inactive Ingredients: Calamine, Cholorthymol, Glycerin, Lanolin, Sodium Bicarbonate, Phenol, Thymol
Customer Review
"Calmoseptine is a potent and fast-healing wound ointment."
Best of Odor Control Cleansers
PeriFresh No-Rinse Perineal Cleanser is a non-irritating, soothing formula that emulsifies and cleans dried urine and fecal matter. This no-rinse formula is gentle on sensitive skin and moisturizes skin to prevent further irritation.
Features and Benefits
- pH Balanced Formula Neutralizes Odors Upon Contact
- Aloe Vera Helps Moisturize and Soothe the Skin
- Nonirritating Formula Is Good Even on Sensitive Skin
- Fresh Scent for a Refreshing, Clean Finish
Specifications
- Contains: Aloe Vera
- Scent: Fresh
Customer Review
"Brilliant Stuff! Use daily to clean my Mom when changing her adult diaper. Removes all traces of feces and urine... Bought the spray bottle first... now I use the Gallon jug. Would recommend this to anyone"
Best of Antibacterial Incontinence Wipes
ReadyBath LUXE Body Cleansing Cloths are rinse-free, personal cleansing cloths that make cleanup quick and convenient. They are pre-moistened with a pH-balanced cleanser that neutralizes odors on contact. Both antibacterial and non-antibacterial versions are available; the antibacterial wipes kill germs for extra cleansing power.
Features and Benefits
- Resealable, Easy-Open Pouch Allows for Quick Dispensing
- No-Rinse Formula Cleans Without Water
- Antibacterial Wipe Kills Germs and Odors on Contact
Specifications
- Active Ingredient: Benzalkonium Chloride
- Alcohol Free: Yes
- Flushable: No
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Material: Rayon/Polyester
Customer Review
"These were recently provided to me during a hospital stay. They made me feel so clean and refreshed since I was unable to shower. I liked them so much that I ordered them to use at home during recovery"
Best of Incontinence Clamps
The Bard Cunningham Clamp is a great choice for men with stress incontinence. Five ratchet catches allow you to adjust urethral pressure for the most effective and comfortable fit. Two soft foam pads prevent uncomfortable restriction or pressure.
Features and Benefits
- Reusable and Washable for Multiple Uses
- Five Settings Allow for Urethral Pressure Adjustment
- Sponge Rubber Material Is Soft and Comfortable
Specifications
- Material: Steel, Foam, and Latex
- Size Options: Small (1-1.5 Inch), Medium (2 Inch), and Large (3 Inch)
Customer Review
"After 5 yrs of leaking this is the best solution ever. 6 or 7 PADS a day, now 0 pads."
Best of Men's Urinary Guards
The Tranquility Male Guard is a discreet, cup-shaped incontinence pad worn inside the underwear for comfort and discretion. It absorbs up to 9.5 ounces of fluid while reducing any unpleasant odors. Soft side gathers help prevent leakage and provide all-day comfort.
Features and Benefits
- Cup-Shaped Design Catches Leakage
- Wears Comfortably with Normal Underwear
- Clothlike Backsheet Is Soft and Prevents Bulging
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Heavy
- Fluid Capacity: 9.5 Ounces
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
Customer Review
"Whoever named these pads "Tranquility" hit a homerun! For months I've been trying to find a decent pad for my moderate to heavy leakage. I've spent over a hundred dollars trying different products. My search is over with Tranquility pads! The pads may be a tad large for some, but they cover a large area. No side leakage! I tested these pads. I wore one for several hours! In the past, I changed a pad almost every hour!"
Best of Women's Bladder Control Pads
Poise Ultimate Pads are specially contoured to fit the female anatomy for bladder leak protection. The AbsorbLoc core locks away moisture and odor, providing up to 12 hours of freshness. The Dry-Touch layer protects the skin from moisture, helping you feel dry and clean all day.
Features and Benefits
- Elastic Sides Provide Leakage Protection
- Adhesive Strip Helps Secure Pad in Place
- Dry-Touch Layer Keeps User Feeling Fresh and Clean
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Heavy
- Gender: Women
- Incontinence Type: Urinary
- Length Options: Regular and Long
- Material: Polymer/Fluff
- Usage: Disposable
Customer Review
"Love them"
Best of Kegel Exercise Tools
The Intimate Rose Pelvic Wand is designed for massaging and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles for both women and men. The wand is made of smooth silicone for easier insertion. It features multiple versions for customized pain relief: vibrating, hot/cold temperature therapy, and standard trigger point release.
Features and Benefits
- Medical Grade, BPA-Free Silicone for Smooth, Safe Insertion
- Ergonomic Shape Helps Reach Pelvic Floor Muscles
- Unique Tip Size Accommodates Men and Women
Specifications
- Gender: Unisex
- Material: Silicone
- Options: Vibrating, Hot/Cold Temperature, Trigger Point Release
Best of Vaginal Pelvic Weights
Intimate Rose Kegel Exercise Training Weights come in a progressive training system with six weights. Using these training weights for just 15 minutes a day significantly strengthens pelvic floor muscles for quick results. The weights are made of smooth, medical-grade silicone that inserts easily and features a non-porous surface to reduce the buildup of bacteria.
Features and Benefits
- Smooth, Nonstick Silicone for Easy and Safe Insertion
- Six Progressive Weight Options To Accommodate All Levels
- Nonporous Surface Reduces the Risk of Bacterial Buildup
- 15-Minute Treatment a Day Strengthens Pelvic Muscles
Specifications
- FDA Cleared: Yes
- Gender: Female
- Material: Silicone
- Weights: 0.9 to 4.4 Ounces
Best of Adult Swim Diapers
SOSecure Containment Swim Briefs are perfect for light incontinence protection while swimming. These briefs are meant to be worn under your regular swimsuit, sealing away fluids while being discreet. They can even be worn over disposable incontinence products for extra protection.
Features and Benefits
- Adjustable Waist Closure for Secure, Comfortable Fit
- Elastic Leg Gathers Help Prevent Leaking
- Hook and Loop Tab Closure for Easy On and Off
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Light
- Banding: Elastic
- Gender: Unisex
- Lining: Fleece
- Material: Polyurethane Fabric
- Size Options: Extra Small to 5X Large (Waist Sizes 22 to 58 Inch)
- Usage: Reusable
Customer Review
"I have owned this product for a short time so far this summer after a flare of IBD, specifically Ulcerative colitis. When I just want to feel secure during a flare, I wear these, and they are great. It takes a little time to get them broke in, but they the will fit like a glove on you and are actually comfortable. The polyurethane coating is stretchy, yet thick enough to resist wear so far. Of the sake of a full review, the one time they had to do their job during some water therapy I was involved in, they held the bowel waist in and nothing leaked out of the leg openings. I was so grateful! The leg opening are snug, yet not uncomfortable. It is difficult for a man in his 40s to admit to these tings, but I want this to help someone else who has similar problems. Happy Swimming!"
Best of Lightweight Mesh Underwear
Medibrief Mesh Incontinence Briefs are popular for postpartum users for managing light incontinence after childbirth and securing wound dressings. The polyester and spandex combo material is flexible and breathable for comfortable support. These briefs can be worn alone or with a pad or liner to absorb extra fluid.
Features and Benefits
- Color-Coded Stitching for Quick Size Identification
- Breathable Mesh Material Is Comfortable and Light
- Won't Put Pressure on Sensitive Regions
Specifications
- Absorbency Level: Light
- Gender: Unisex
- Latex Indicator: Not Made With Natural Rubber Latex
- Material: 84% Polyester, 16% Spandex
- Size Options: Large, X Large (Waist Sizes 56 to 74 Inch)
- Usage: Disposable
Conclusion
There are a wide variety of incontinence solutions available today and narrowing them down can be a tricky task. Use this information about the most popular incontinence products as a guide for buying what you need to manage incontinence and improve your quality of life.
Footnotes
- 1 "Continence Product Advisor. Bladder leakage." Measuring how much you leak by weighing pads