Updated: February 6, 2026
Incontinence: A Growing Concern
As baby boomers age, the number of individuals managing urinary incontinence continues to increase. Clinicians recommend that “the first treatment choice should be the least invasive option with the lowest risk for adverse complications.”1 For many people, this means starting with absorbent incontinence products to control bladder leaks and protect skin.
Urinary incontinence is common among older adults. Estimates suggest a 5% to 15% incidence rate among community-dwelling seniors and up to 40% among hospitalized patients.2
Individuals living with bladder leaks face ongoing challenges balancing skin protection, comfort, odor control, and dignity. Absorbent products play a central role in managing moisture, but fit, absorbency level, and wear time all influence how well a product works in daily life.
Prolonged exposure to moisture, friction, urine, and feces can damage the skin over the buttocks and sacral area. This exposure may lead to maceration, blistering, and infections such as candidiasis. Skin friction increases when the skin is wet, making it more vulnerable to abrasions, especially from tight-fitting adult briefs with tape or hook-and-loop fasteners. Tape-related cuts are frequently seen in obese and elderly individuals who use products that do not fit properly.
Types of Incontinence Products
There are many incontinence supplies designed for different levels of leakage and activity. Key design factors include:
- Discreetness for active lifestyles
- Required absorbency level
- Expected wear time (day and night)
- Ease of application, especially when caregiver assistance is needed
Common categories include liners, pads, guards, protective underwear, adult briefs, and underpads (bed pads). The sections below compare how these options are used and who may benefit from each type.
Bed Pads
Bed pads, also called underpads, hospital bed pads, disposable bed pads, or reusable bed pads, are designed to protect mattresses from urine and fecal incontinence. A common size is 23 x 36 inches. These absorbent sheets lie flat over fitted bed sheets and may be disposable or reusable. Disposable underpads are convenient because they can be discarded after use, while washable bed pads can be laundered and reused.
Underpads do more than protect mattresses. They can also help safeguard chairs, recliners, and car seats, cover furniture and floors, absorb pet waste, contain plumbing leaks, and protect surfaces during arts and crafts or wound care tasks. They are often used as a backup layer under briefs, pads, or protective underwear.
Typical Bed Pad Features
- Slip-resistant backing helps keep pad in place
- Soft, breathable topsheet for comfort
- Permeable top layer to let fluid pass through
- Absorbent core to capture and hold moisture
- Backsheet barrier to help prevent leaks
- Diamond-embossed pattern provides durability
Advantages
- Available in both disposable and washable versions
- Protects mattresses, furniture, and floors
- Helps prevent stains and odor transfer
- Offered in multiple sizes and absorbency levels
- Useful for incontinence and general spill protection
Disadvantages
- Environmental impact from frequent disposal
- Ongoing cost when used in large quantities
Protective Underwear
Protective underwear (also known as pull-ups or absorbent underwear) provides varying levels of absorbency while resembling regular underwear. Higher absorbency products tend to be bulkier. Many versions offer features such as breathability, a cloth-like feel, odor control, discreetness, and options for day or night use. These products are ideal for active individuals.
Typical Features
- Pull-on design with stretch waistband
- Cloth-like, breathable outer cover
- Elastic leg gathers to help reduce leaks
- Absorbent core for moderate to heavy leaks
- Odor control materials in the core
- Tear-away or breakaway side seams for easy removal
- Gender-specific or unisex fits, depending on brand
- Waist size and absorbency options for day or night use
Advantages
- Closely resembles regular underwear
- Soft, cloth-like materials
- Odor control options available
- Overnight and daytime versions available
- Multiple absorbency levels
- Available in both washable and disposable styles
Disadvantages
- Bulkier than liners or small pads
- Less discreet under tight clothing
- More difficult to don and remove than pads
- Some designs may trap heat
- Higher ongoing cost than light pads
- Environmental impact from disposable styles
Briefs
Adult briefs are incontinence products that secure around the waist and legs using tape tabs or hook-and-loop fasteners. The design resembles a diaper and provides high absorbency for bladder control and, in some cases, bowel incontinence. Briefs are used frequently for people who are bedridden or have limited mobility. Caregivers can change soiled briefs without requiring the wearer to stand, which supports safer turning and repositioning.
Typical Features
- Tab-style or hook-and-loop side closures
- High-absorbency core for heavy leaks
- Leak guards around legs for added protection
- Breathable or cloth-like outer backsheet
- Wetness indicator to signal when change is needed
- Refastenable tabs on many designs
- Elastic waist and leg cuffs to improve fit
- Daytime and overnight absorbency options
Advantages
- Available in both disposable and reusable options
- Designed for caregiver convenience in bed
- Offered with tape or hook-and-loop closures
- High-absorbency options for heavy leakage
- Supports patients with limited mobility
- Overnight designs with extended wear time
- Odor control and leak guards in many models
Disadvantages
- Bulkier than many other incontinence products
- Some designs have limited breathability
- Tape closures may irritate skin if applied incorrectly
- Can feel warm in hot climates or with prolonged wear
- Higher cost than light pads and liners
- Environmental impact from disposable products
Bladder Control Pads
Bladder control pads are designed mainly for women with light urinary leakage, such as stress incontinence. These pads are compact and discreet, making them easy to carry in a purse or bag. They are simple to change and dispose of, which supports active lifestyles and social activities with minimal disruption.
Typcial Features
- Soft Permeable Top Layer
- Flexible Absorbent Core
- Flexible Side Barriers for Leak Protection
- Discreet Design
- Waterproof Outer Layer
- Adhesive Strip Fixes Pad In Place
- Body Contoured for Fit and Comfort
Advantages
- Discreet and easy to carry
- Small and lightweight
- Lower cost compared with larger garments
- Supports active, out-of-home routines
- Lower material use than full briefs
- Disposable convenience
Disadvantages
- Limited absorbency for heavier leaks
- Higher risk of leaks during sudden surges
Male guards
Male guards are bladder control pads shaped specifically for men. They typically feature a contoured, tapered design to fit the male anatomy and attach inside close-fitting underwear with an adhesive strip. Some models include a foam or acquisition layer for improved fluid distribution. These products offer discreet protection for light to moderate drips or dribbles and are relatively low cost.
Typical Features
- Soft Permeable Top Layer
- Flexible Absorbent Core
- Flexible Side Barriers for Leak Protection
- Discreet Design
- Waterproof Outer Layer
- Adhesive Strip Fixes Pad In Place
- Body Contoured for Fit and Comfort
Advantages
- Compact and discreet profile
- Lower cost than full protective underwear
- Less material, leading to a smaller environmental footprint than briefs
- Disposable and easy to change
Disadvantages
- Limited absorbency for heavy leaks
- Greater chance of leaks if not positioned correctly
Male Shields
Male shields offer light to moderate protection and are designed to be worn with snug-fitting underwear or stretch mesh briefs. These thin products help manage post-void dribbling and small leaks while remaining discreet under clothing.
Typical Features
- Ultra-Thin Absorbent Material
- Discreet Profile
- Absorbent Core for Drips and Dribbles
- Odor Conrol
- Srong Adhesive Fixes Shield to Underwear/Briefs
Advantages
- Comfortable and discreet design
- Compact size
- Lower cost than many other options
- Disposable convenience
Disadvantages
- Low to moderate absorbency only
- Higher chance of leaks with sudden heavy flow
Liners
Liners are thin, low-profile products designed mainly for women with very light bladder leakage or occasional drips. They are less intrusive than larger incontinence garments and include a waterproof backing to help prevent moisture from passing through to undergarments. Liners are often used as a first step before moving to more absorbent products.
Typical Features
- Thin Design for Greater Flexibility
- Light Absorbent Core
- Breathable Inner Layer
- Permeable Inner Layer Transfers Moisture to Core
- Easy Installation and Removal
- Waterproof Barrier Outer Layer
- Adhesive Strip On Outer Layer Keeps Liner In Place
Advantages
- Highly discreet and slim
- Small and easy to carry
- Lower cost than higher-absorbency products
- Disposable and simple to change
Disadvantages
- Low absorbency
- Higher risk of leaks with moderate or heavy episodes
Booster pads
Booster pads are used in combination with another incontinence product, such as a brief, pull-on underwear, or bladder control pad. They add extra absorbency by channeling fluid into the primary garment. Because booster pads do not have a moisture barrier, they are not designed to be worn alone.
Booster pads are often used for overnight protection, long trips, or situations where product changes may be delayed, such as appointments or travel.
Typical Features
- Diaper Doubler/Insert
- Absorbent Core
- Permeable Outer Layer for Pass-Through Moisture
- Contoured and Hourglass Shape Options
- Adhesive Strip to Attach to Briefs or Protective Underwear
Advantages
- Highly discreet and slim
- Small and easy to carry
- Lower cost than higher-absorbency products
- Disposable and simple to change
Disadvantages
- Low absorbency
- Higher risk of leaks with moderate or heavy episodes
How to Select the Best Incontinence Product
When choosing an incontinence product, consider factors such as patient activity levels, absorbency needs, leak protection, discreetness, application requirements, and wear time. These factors often influence each other. For example, increasing absorbency may enhance leak protection and wear time but reduce discreetness and flexibility. Conversely, products designed for active lifestyles prioritize discreetness and comfort over maximum absorbency.
The continuum above illustrates how product options vary based on individual needs. Active individuals typically require discreet, lightweight products with moderate absorbency, positioned on the left side of the continuum. In contrast, patients with severe leakage may need highly absorbent products with extended wear times, positioned on the right side.
For some patients, combining multiple products—such as a booster pad with a brief or an underpad beneath a reclining patient—provides additional protection. Finding the right combination of products is essential for managing leaks effectively and maintaining comfort.
Additional Features to Consider
Urine Protection for Plus Sizes
Incontinence products are available in bariatric sizes, including X-Large, 2X-Large, 3X-Large, and 4X-Large. These sizes provide greater absorbency and leak protection for individuals with larger waist sizes. For example, the Tranquility Air Plus Brief accommodates waist sizes up to 106 inches.
Odor Control
Modern incontinence products incorporate odor control technologies, including chemical neutralizers, zeolites, and specialized fibers. These materials help reduce odors by trapping moisture and bacteria within the absorbent core. Breathable backsheet designs further enhance comfort by reducing skin humidity.3
Reusable vs. Disposable Products
Reusable products are made from washable fabrics and are often more discreet and environmentally friendly than disposable options. However, disposable products offer greater convenience, as they can be easily discarded after use. Cost considerations and personal preferences typically determine which option is best for each individual.
FAQ
What are the top bladder control supplies?
What are incontinence products made of?
What is the best absorbent solution?
What are the most absorbent incontinence products?
What are the top bladder control supplies?
The most popular incontinence products include bladder control pads, adult briefs, protective underwear, and bed pads. These products are designed to meet varying levels of absorbency and comfort needs.
What are incontinence products made of?
Disposable incontinence products are constructed using a combination of materials, including cotton, polyester, and nylon. The inner layer wicks moisture away from the skin and quickly dries to maintain comfort. The absorbent core locks in moisture, while the outer layer is breathable, allowing air circulation without releasing liquid. Many products also incorporate elastic leg bands and adhesive fasteners to prevent leaks and ensure a secure fit.
Advanced products may include acquisition layers that quickly transport fluid into the absorbent core. These layers are often made from synthetic or modified cellulose fibers. The breathable backsheet helps reduce skin humidity, improving comfort and reducing the risk of skin irritation.7
What is the best absorbent solution?
The best absorbent product varies depending on individual needs. Those with light leaks may prefer pads or liners, which offer discretion and flexibility. Protective underwear provides moderate to heavy absorbency, while briefs are designed for individuals with limited mobility who require caregiver assistance.
A study found that pull-ups (protective underwear) were favored by women during the day and in nursing home settings at night. For men, briefs were found to be the most effective and cost-efficient for managing leaks.9
Ultimately, testing different products during various times of day and night can help determine the most effective solution. As needs change, product selections may need to be adjusted to maintain optimal protection and comfort.
What are the most absorbent incontinence products?
Overnight incontinence products are designed for maximum absorbency. These items often carry labels such as "Super," "Maximum," "Maxi," or "Extra." Although manufacturers may not always publish absorbency capacities, the following products are known for high absorption:
- Abena Abri Form Premium Briefs, XL4 Size – 135 oz
- Unique Wellness Briefs – 88 oz
- Attends Premier Briefs – 50.7 oz
- Tranquility ATN Briefs, X-Large Size – 37 oz
- Tranquility Bariatric Brief, 3X-Large – 34 oz
- Tranquility Air Plus Brief, 4X Size – 34 oz
How often should incontinence products be changed?
Incontinence products should be changed as soon as they become wet to maintain skin health and comfort. Below is a guideline for the typical maximum wear time of various products:
- Liners: 3 to 4 hours
- Pads: 4 to 6 hours
- Guards: 4 to 6 hours
- Protective Underwear: 4 to 8 hours
- Briefs: 4 to 8 hours
- Underpads: 8 hours
Will Medicare pay for incontinence supplies?
"Medicare doesn't cover incontinence pads or adult diapers.... You pay 100% for incontinence pads and adult diapers."11
While Medicare does not typically cover disposable incontinence products, there are exceptions for items classified as prosthetic devices, such as catheters and external urinary collection devices. Additionally, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer over-the-counter benefits that cover incontinence supplies.
What are the best overnight urinary absorption devices?
Overnight bladder protection products are designed to handle high absorption needs. These products often feature leak guards, breathable materials, odor control, and elastic waistbands to ensure comfort and effectiveness throughout the night. Below are some of the top-rated overnight solutions:
- Abena Abri Form Premium Briefs, XL4 Size – 135 oz
- Unique Wellness Briefs – 88 oz
- Attends Premier Briefs – 50.7 oz
- Tranquility ATN Briefs, X-Large Size – 37 oz
What is the best option for male incontinence?
For men, popular incontinence management options include absorbent guards and pads designed for the male anatomy. Additionally, some men opt for incontinence clamps for added control. Below are some of the top-selling male incontinence products:
- Prevail Male Guard Pads
- Tena for Men Pads
- Depend Guards
- Briefmates
- Sure Care Male Guards
What are the top urinary pads?
Based on Internet search trends, the following are the most popular bladder control pads:
- Poise Pads
- Chux Pads
- Tena Pads
- Depends Pads
- Attends Pads
What are the top brands for incontinence supplies?
Here are the top brands for incontinence management products, ranked by search popularity:
- Attends
- TENA
- Prevail
- Depends
- Tranquility
- Kendall
- Medline
- FitRight
- Abena Abri
- Unique Wellness
What are the absorbency levels?
There are generally four absorbency levels for incontinence products, although some manufacturers may add additional categories. These levels include:
- Light: Suitable for minor leaks
- Moderate: Provides more protection for daily activities
- Heavy: Designed for significant leaks and extended wear
- Super/Maximum: Offers the highest level of absorbency, often used for overnight protection
Are there incontinence supplies for pets?
Yes, many incontinence products have been adapted for pet use. Common adaptations include using underpads to protect floors or furniture and briefs for dogs or cats with urinary issues. Tape and hook-and-loop fasteners make briefs easy to adjust for pets, although pet training may be required to prevent removal.
What are the incontinence options for swimming?
Manufacturers offer swim-specific incontinence products such as disposable swim diapers, swim briefs, and incontinence swimwear. These products are designed to contain loose bowel movements and prevent leaks while remaining discreet under a bathing suit. Both disposable and washable options are available, with minimal swelling when exposed to water.
Popular Swim Diapers:
- Tranquility SwimMates
- SoSecure
- Huggies Little Swimmers
- Poise Impressa Bladder Supports
- Pampers Splashers Swim Diapers
What is the difference between briefs and reusable underwear?
Disposable briefs are single-use products, although a few exceptions like Salk and UroConcept offer reusable options. Reusable underwear, as the name suggests, is washable and can be reused multiple times.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of reusable underwear?
Reusable underwear can be more cost-effective in the long term and may offer a better fit for some users. However, concerns over sanitation and handling soiled garments may deter certain individuals from choosing reusable options.
What should I look for in a brief or disposable pad?
Disposable briefs and disposable pads vary in application. Pull-on undergarments work like regular underwear and are suitable for individuals with a full range of motion. People with mobility issues may benefit from strap-on or belted options, which are easier to secure but may be challenging for those with dexterity limitations.
Are brand name absorbent supplies superior to generic?
According to a study by the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses (WOCN) Society, brand-name incontinence products generally perform better than generic alternatives in terms of fit, comfort, and leakage prevention.16
What should I look for in a pad or shield?
Choose a product that can absorb the typical amount of urine leakage. Consider selecting a pad with slightly higher capacity to account for unexpected situations where the product may need to remain in place longer than anticipated.
Footnotes
- 1 Holroyd-Leduc, Jayna M., and Sharon E. Straus. "Management of urinary incontinence in women: scientific review." Jama 291.8 (2004): p. 993.
- 2 Resnick, Neil M., and Subbarao V. Yalla. "Management of urinary incontinence in the elderly." New England Journal of Medicine 313.13 (1985): p. 800.
- 3 Beguin, Anne-Marie, et al. "Improving diaper design to address incontinence associated dermatitis." BMC geriatrics 10.1 (2010): p. 86. (last accessed January 10, 2020)
- 4 IRS, "Topic No. 502 Medical and Dental Expenses." IRS. (last accessed January 10, 2020)
- 5 F. Wiesemann, R. Adam, “Absorbent products for personal health care and hygiene.” Incontinence Aid. ScienceDirect. 14.2. (last accessed January 17, 2020)
- 6 Yamasato, Kelly, Bliss Kaneshiro, and Ian A. Oyama. "A Simulation Comparing the Cost-effectiveness of Adult Incontinence Products." Journal of Wound Ostomy & Continence Nursing 41.5 (2014): p. 472. (last accessed January 17, 2020)
- 7 Fader, M., et al. "Absorbent products for urinary/faecal incontinence: a comparative evaluation of key product designs." Health Technology Assessment 12.29 (2008): p. iv. (last accessed January 10, 2020)
- 8 Fader, 2008, p. iii. (last accessed January 10, 2020)
- 9 "Incontinence pads & adult diapers." Your Medicare Coverage. The Official U.S. Government Site for Medicare. (last accessed January 15, 2020)
- 10 Brown, J.G. "Medicare Allowances for Incontinence Supplies." Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. March, 1997. page i. (last accessed January 17, 2020)
- 11 Brown, 1997, p. 1.
- 12 "Topic No. 502 Medical and Dental Expenses." Tax Topics, IRS. (Last Accessed January 8, 2020)
- 13 "Medicare Coverage for Incontinence Supplies." MediCareFAQ. Elite Insurance Partners. (last accessed January 14, 2020)
- 14 Gray, Mikel, et al. "Assessment, selection, use, and evaluation of body-worn absorbent products for adults with incontinence." Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing 45.3 (2018): p. 263. (last accessed January 14, 2020)
Medical Studies
Holroyd-Leduc, Jayna M., and Sharon E. Straus. "Management of urinary incontinence in women: scientific review." Jama 291.8 (2004): 986-995.- F. Wiesemann, R. Adam, “Absorbent products for personal health care and hygiene.” Incontinence Aid. ScienceDirect. 14.2. (last accessed January 17, 2020)
- Resnick, Neil M., and Subbarao V. Yalla. "Management of urinary incontinence in the elderly." New England Journal of Medicine 313.13 (1985): 800-805.
- Newman, Diane K. "Incontinence products and devices for the elderly." Urologic nursing 24.4 (2004): 316-333.
- Herzog AR, Fultz NH. Prevalence and incidence of urinary incontinence in community-dwelling populations. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1990;38:273-281.
- Holroyd-Leduc, Jayna M., and Sharon E. Straus. "Management of urinary incontinence in women: scientific review." Jama 291.8 (2004): 986-995.
- Temml C, Haidinger G, Schmidbauer J, Schatzl G, Madersbacher S. Urinary incontinence in both sexes: prevalence rates and impact on quality of life and sexual life. Neurourol Urodyn. 2000;19:259-271.
- Mitteness, Linda S. "The management of urinary incontinence by community-living elderly." The Gerontologist 27.2 (1987): 185-193.
- Holroyd-Leduc, Jayna M., and Sharon E. Straus. "Management of urinary incontinence in women: scientific review." Jama 291.8 (2004): 986-995.
- Schnelle, John F., et al. "Management of geriatric incontinence in nursing homes." Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis 16.2 (1983): 235-241.
- Cusick, Gordon Edward, and Teresa Hopkins. "Absorbent incontinence products." Textile Progress 20.3 (1990): 1-34.
- White, C. F. "Engineered structures for use in disposable incontinence products." Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine 217.4 (2003): 243-251.
- Haeker, S. "What's best--reusable or disposable incontinence products?." Textile rental 69.9 (1986): 86-91.
- Bardsley, Alison. "Prevention and management of incontinence-associated dermatitis." Nursing Standard 27.44 (2013).
- Beguin, Anne-Marie, et al. "Improving diaper design to address incontinence associated dermatitis." BMC geriatrics 10.1 (2010): 86.
- Yamasato, Kelly, Bliss Kaneshiro, and Ian A. Oyama. "A Simulation Comparing the Cost-effectiveness of Adult Incontinence Products." Journal of Wound Ostomy & Continence Nursing 41.5 (2014): 467-472.
- Getliffe, Kathryn, et al. "Absorbent products for incontinence:‘treatment effects’ and impact on quality of life." Journal of clinical nursing 16.10 (2007): 1936-1945.
- Fader, M., et al. "Absorbent products for urinary/faecal incontinence: a comparative evaluation of key product designs." Health Technology Assessment 12.29 (2008): 1-208.
- Gray, Mikel, et al. "Assessment, selection, use, and evaluation of body-worn absorbent products for adults with incontinence." Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing 45.3 (2018): 243-264.
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