Click on Product Advisor for help choosing between the different types of pads and devices.
If you need help determining how light or heavy your leakage is, click on bladder leakage.
Large disposable pads
1
Large disposable padsWhat are large disposable pads?
These are simple disposable absorbent pads, sometimes called insert pads, shaped pads or two-piece systems. The pads are worn inside underwear. Specially designed stretch pants are normally available from the same suppliers as the pads. Alternatively, normal underwear can be used as long as it is sufficiently close-fitting to ensure the pad is held in place. Most pads are shaped to ensure they fit well and stay in place, and are available in a range of absorbencies for all degrees of leakage.
The top layer, which is in contact with the skin, is made of a non-woven material that allows urine to pass through easily to keep the skin dry. The absorbent core of the pads is made from fluffed wood pulp fibres, usually combined with super-absorbent polymer powder, which turns to gel and retains the urine in the pad. Most absorbent pads have a waterproof outer backing. The pads often have wetness indicators on the outer waterproof backing to show when the pad is saturated and needs to be changed. This is particularly useful for people who rely on helpers for pad changing and reduces the likelihood of the pad overfilling and leaking onto clothing or furniture.
| More likely to suit you if... |
Less likely to suit you if... |
- You have moderate or heavy bladder leakage
|
- Your leakage is very heavy
|
- You have some bowel leakage or combined bladder and bowel leakage
|
- You are mobile and active
|
- Discretion is a priority for you
|
|
- You want a product which is easy to put on
|
|
- You can stand up (with assistance if necessary) but can't change your own pad
|
|
When do large disposable pads work best?
Some men manage their incontinence successfully using large disposable pads. If they reliably contain leakage and the design is acceptable, they are a relatively cost-effective disposable product compared with other designs. They are also easier to change than some other products.
However, some men find that large disposable pads leak more than some other pad designs, and prefer, at least some of the time, to use all-in-ones, belted shaped pads or disposable pants. Large disposable pads are particularly prone to leaking at night, especially if you lie on your side, as the pads do not provide absorbency in this area.1
What about fitting?
Most people find large disposable pads easy to put on or change, as they simply need to be inserted into close-fitting underwear. They are quick to change compared with all-in-one designs. They can also be put on or changed with the assistance of a helper.
See below for more information about putting on or changing pads.
20
What other products could ‘mix and match’ well with large disposable pads?
Some men manage their bladder leakage successfully using only large disposable pads, while others find using different product types at different times works best.2
Some men use large disposable pads when they are at home because they are easy to change and cheaper than other products, but when they are out and about or at work, prefer the reassurance of a product less prone to leaking.
If you find that large disposable pads leak at night when you lie on your side, disposable or washable absorbent bed pads are available that will soak up any leakage. It may also be a good idea to use a waterproof mattress protector.
In addition to absorbent products, men with bladder leakage also have the option of using male devices such as sheaths and leg bags.
Selecting pads
Most absorbent pads for moderate/heavy incontinence are made in a variety of absorbencies. If you need help determining how light or heavy your leakage is, click here.
Pads that are more absorbent tend to be more bulky, so choosing which will work best for you involves finding the right balance of absorbency and discretion. It may be a good idea to start with a thinner, less absorbent pad and then increase the size/absorbency if necessary until you find one that works for you.
Research has shown that there is wide variation in performance between different brands of large disposable pads.3 Therefore, if one brand doesn’t suit you, it may be worth trying a different one before moving on to a different product type. Some manufacturers of disposable products will send you free trial samples in the post. Look out for advertisements in magazines and on the internet.
Putting on or changing pads
Because they are simply inserted inside close-fitting underwear, most men who have reasonable mobility and use of their hands find it easy to put on or change a large disposable pad.
It is recommended that disposable pads are folded in half length-wise before being worn (for manufacturing reasons when packaged they are normally folded the other way, across the pad). Forming a ‘valley’ in the pad in this way helps to ensure it fits to the shape of the body and has the best chance of containing leakage. A secure and close fit is important to ensure they are effective in containing leakage. The pants used to secure the pad should be pulled up into the groin at the top of the legs for maximum security.
If you need help putting on and changing your pads, you might have to consider both your preferences and those of your helper when selecting a pad. The product must suit you, but must also be easy for your helper to change. Disposable pads can generally be fitted quite easily by a helper if you can stand (even for short periods) or are in bed and can roll from side to side.
Disposable pads are hard to change in a sitting position unless you can lift your bottom off the chair and move from side to side lifting one buttock at a time. It might take some practice with you and your helper to find a system that works for you.
Guides to fitting pads are usually available on the manufacturer’s website.
Large disposable pads and bowel leakage
Disposable pads may be suitable if you have bowel leakage or combined bladder and bowel leakage. It is important that they cover your bottom sufficiently and are secured in position with close fitting underwear if they are to contain bowel leakage effectively.
Disadvantages of large disposable pads
Some people find that they are allergic to some of the materials that disposable pads are made of and have to stop using them.
Occasionally men experience chafing or rubbing from raised or elasticated parts of the pad.
As with all pads, there is always the possibility of leakage beyond the pad onto clothes or furniture; no pad is guaranteed to contain leakage completely all the time. You will need to work out the most effective product or combination of products for you.
Where can I get large disposable pads?
Many types are available through retail outlets such as pharmacies and supermarkets, the internet or direct from suppliers. Not all products are available worldwide. See below for links to suppliers and products in your part of the world.
Disposable pull-on pads
2
Masculine design disposable pantsWhat are disposable pull-on pads?
These are a disposable all-in-one product, in which an absorbent pad and pants are combined. They are sometimes called Protective Underwear, Pull-ons or Pull-ups. They are available in a range of absorbencies, so that some are suitable for moderate/heavy bladder leakage.
The pants part of the product is made of a non-woven fabric and is elasticated all over to give a close fit and keep the pad in place. In recent years, newer designs have been introduced to the market that more closely resemble cotton underwear with the elastication concealed within the material. Some are designed specifically for men, resembling boxer shorts or men’s briefs, and in more “masculine” colours (eg grey and striped).
| More likely to suit you if... |
Less likely to suit you if... |
- You have moderate or even quite heavy bladder leakage
|
- Low cost is a priority for you - pull-ons are a relatively expensive product
|
- You have some small bowel leakage or combined bladder and bowel leakage, because the products cover the bottom. However, because much of the product is made of breathable non-woven fabrics, they may do little to contain odour
|
- You find removal of clothing for changing the pad difficult
|
- Discretion is a priority for you
|
- You need a product for use at night and need help with pad changing
|
- You want a product which is easy to put on
|
|
- You can stand up (with assistance if necessary) but can't change your own pad
|
|
- You are most concerned about reliably containing leakage
|
|
When do disposable pull-on pads work best?
Generally, disposable pull-on pads perform well and some men prefer them to other pad designs for day use. However, they are not as popular with men as disposable all-in-one pads for day use, as these are more absorbent than the pants.1
They may be less effective at absorbing leakage when in bed, because gravity may cause urine to flow away from the pad. An all-in-one pad that provides more coverage and protection from leakage may be more effective.1
What about fitting?
Pull-on pads are put on just like your usual underwear, and so they are easy to use if you are able to dress yourself.
If you are dependent on a helper for putting on and changing your pants, you might need to find a product that suits you and is also easy for your helper to change. If you can stand, even for short periods, or can roll from side to side when in bed, then pull-ons can be quite easily put in place by a helper. However, every time you change the pants, you would need to take outer clothing off, which may be time-consuming. Disposable pants are very hard to change in a sitting position. It might take some practice with you and your carer to get a system that works for you.
What other products could ‘mix and match’ well with disposable pull-on pads?
Many men with bladder leakage find using different product types at different times works best.2
Disposable pull-on pads are a relatively expensive product, so if cost is a concern, you may not want to use them all the time.
Some men use pull-ons when they are out and about, but simpler and cheaper pads when at home. Some use disposable pull-on pads during the day but an all-in-one pad for added protection at night.
In addition to absorbent products, men with bladder leakage also have the option of using male devices such as sheaths and leg bags.
Selecting disposable pull-on pads
Disposable pull-on pads are made in different absorbencies for moderate to heavy incontinence. If you need help determining how light or heavy your leakage is, click here.
Generally, products become more bulky as the absorbency increases. They also tend to be more expensive as the absorbency increases.
It is probably best to start with the lightest absorbency available and see how it works for you.
Disadvantages of disposable pull-on pads
Some men find that they are allergic to some of the materials that disposable pull-on pads are made of and find that they have to stop using them.
They are a fairly expensive product, so if cost is a concern for you it may best to consider using other products some of the time, so that you can be sure that you are getting value for money.
The sides of disposable pull-on pads can be torn in order to remove them without the need to remove lower clothing. However, putting pants on requires the removal of outer clothing. Doing this once or twice a day may be acceptable but any more frequently might be an unacceptable inconvenience, and may be difficult when away from home.
Where can I get disposable pull-on pads?
Many types are available through retail outlets such as pharmacies and supermarkets, the internet or direct from suppliers. Not all products are available worldwide. See below for links to suppliers and products in your part of the world.
All-in-one disposable pads
3
One piece/all in one disposable padWhat are all-in-one disposable pads (wraparound pads)?
These are the most commonly used product for moderate or heavy bladder leakage, as they are the most absorbent of the pad designs.1 They are also called wrap-arounds, adult briefs, slips and adult diapers. All-in-ones have an integral absorbent pad and a waterproof backing, with side wings that wrap around the hips/waist and are secured at the front by tapes or other fasteners.
The top inside layer, which is in contact with the skin, is made of a non-woven material that allows urine to pass through easily to keep the skin dry. The absorbent core of the all-in-one is made from fluffed wood pulp fibres, usually combined with super-absorbent polymer powder, which turns to gel and retains the urine in the pad. Some brands of all-in-ones have a waterproof outer backing that is made from plastic, with a non-woven inner surface for comfort. In other brands, much of the outer backing is made from a non-woven cloth-like material, which is intended to be breathable. The pads often have wetness indictors on the outer waterproof backing to show when the pad is saturated and needs to be changed. This is particularly useful for people who rely on helpers for pad changing, and reduces the likelihood of the pad overfilling and leaking onto clothing.
| More likely to suit you if... |
Less likely to suit you if... |
- You have moderate or heavy bladder leakage
|
- Discretion is a priority for you
|
- You have have bowel leakage or combined bladder and bowel leakage
|
- Discretion is a priority for you
|
- You are unable to stand to change the pad
|
|
When do all-in-one/wraparound disposable pads work best?
These are the most absorbent and leak-free disposable pad design. Because of this, many men prefer them for use during the day.1
At night, men sometimes find the products perform poorly if they are lying on their side in bed. Under gravity, urine tends to migrate to the lowest point in a pad and disposable all-in-one pads have little absorbent material at the sides.1
What about fitting?
Most men who have reasonable mobility and use of their hands find putting on or changing these products relatively easy. However, managing the adhesive tapes and changing in a confined space such as a toilet cubicle can be difficult. See below for more information about putting on or changing these products.
What other products could ‘mix and match’ well with disposable all-in-one pads?
Some men may manage their bladder leakage successfully using only all-in-one pads, but others find using different product types at different times works best.2
Some disposable all-in-one pads are rather bulky, and you may prefer to use them only when at home or for night-time, when discreetness is less important, and a more discreet product such as disposable pants when out. On the other hand, there may be circumstances when out and about in which you would be willing to compromise on appearance in order to have the reassurance of a pad with good absorption and leakage performance.
If you find that they sometimes leak at night because you lie on your side, absorbent bed pads are available that will soak up any leakage. It may also be a good idea to use a waterproof mattress protector.
In addition to absorbent products, men with bladder leakage also have the option of using male devices such as sheaths and leg bags.
Selecting disposable all-in-one pads
These products are available in a range of sizes. Men usually need to take their waist/hip measurement to find the right size pad. To give the pad the best chance of working well you need to have a comfortable close fitting pad.
Within each size, there may be a range of absorbencies. If you need help determining how light or heavy your leakage is, click here.
Disposable all-in-one pads that are more absorbent tend to be more bulky, so choosing which will work best for you involves finding the right balance of absorbency and discretion. It may be a good idea to start with a thinner, less absorbent product and then increase the size/absorbency if necessary until you find one that works for you.
There is research evidence of wide variation in performance between different brands.3 Therefore, if one brand doesn’t suit you, it may be worth trying a different brand before moving onto a different product type. Some manufacturers of disposable products will send free trial samples in the post. Look out for advertisements in magazines and on the internet.
Putting on or changing disposable all-in-one pads
Generally, men with good use of their hands can put on disposable all-in-one pads.
It is recommended that the pads should be folded in half length-wise before being fitted (for manufacturing reasons when packaged they are normally folded the other way, across the pad). Forming a ‘valley’ in the pad in this way helps to ensure it fits to the shape of the body and has the best chance of containing leakage.
All-in-one pads can be put on or changed in most positions and people can usually find a method that works best for them.
- You might find it easiest lying down because you can ensure the pad is positioned well and fitted closely before attending to the tape fastenings.
- Alternatively, they can be put on standing up: leaning against a wall helps to hold the back of the pad in place while you attend to the tape fastenings at the front. However, some report that this can be fiddly especially when in a confined space such as a toilet cubicle.
- All-in-one pads can be put on sitting down, but this is the most difficult position because it makes it harder to maintain the valley in the pad, to achieve correct positioning, and to adjust and fasten the tapes.
If you need help putting on and changing your pads, you might have to consider both your preferences and those of your helper when selecting a product. The product must suit you, but must also be easy for your helper to change.
All-in-one pads can be changed in any position with the assistance of a helper. It might take some practice with you and your helper to find a system that works for you.
- When lying down, they can be put in place by a helper if you are able to roll from one side to the other.
- If you can stand, even for short periods, the pad can be positioned and fastened correctly.
- All-in-one pads are more difficult to change in a sitting position unless you can lift your bottom off the chair and move from side to side lifting one buttock at a time.
Guides to fitting pads are often available on packaging and on the manufacturer’s website.
Disposable all-in-one pads and bowel leakage
All-in-one pads generally provide good cover over the bottom and are secure, making them the most reliable pad design for bowel leakage.
As they are also very absorbent, they are the product of choice for combined bladder and bowel leakage.
Disadvantages of disposable all-in-one pads
They are the bulkiest of the disposable pads and some men find this unacceptable.
As they cover much of the lower body, they can feel sweaty and uncomfortable.
Some people find that they are allergic to some of the materials that disposable pads are made of and find that they have to stop using them.
Occasionally, men also find that they can experience chafing or rubbing from raised or elasticated parts of the pad. If you accidentally stick the adhesive tab to your skin you could cause a sore patch.
Where can I get disposable all-in-one pads?
Many types are available through retail outlets such as pharmacies and supermarkets, the internet or direct from suppliers. Not all products are available worldwide. See below for links to suppliers and products in your part of the world.
Belted disposable pads
4
Belted or T shape disposble padWhat are belted disposable pads?
These products are similar to all-in-ones pads, but are designed to be easier to put on when standing up. Belted pads are sometimes called T-shaped pads or belted adult diapers. They have a broad elasticated belt that is secured around the waist first. Then the pad part, which is attached to the rear portion of the belt, is pulled forwards between the legs and secured to the front portion of the belt. Like other all-in-ones designs, they do not require separate underwear.
The belt is normally made of an elasticated non-woven fabric and secured in place with re-sealable adhesive or velcro strips. The top inside layer of the absorbent pad, which is in contact with the skin, is made of a non-woven material that allows urine to pass through easily to keep the skin dry. The absorbent core of the pad is made from fluffed wood pulp fibres, usually combined with super-absorbent polymer powder, which turns to gel and retains the urine in the pad. Some brands of belted pads have a waterproof outer backing that is made from plastic. In others the outer backing is made from a non-woven cloth-like material which is intended to be breathable. Belted pads often have wetness indicators on the outer waterproof backing to show when the pad is saturated and needs to be changed. This is particularly useful for people who rely on helpers for pad changing and reduces the likelihood of the pad overfilling and leaking onto clothing.
| More likely to suit you if... |
Less likely to suit you if... |
- You have moderate or heavy bladder leakage
|
- Discretion is a priority for you
|
- You have bowel leakage or combined bladder and bowel leakage
|
|
- You are most concerned about reliably containing leakage
|
|
When do belted pads work best?
These products are designed for moderate/heavy leakage and are very absorbent. However, they can be bulky to wear and are not very discreet under some clothing, and many women prefer disposable pants products.1
They may be less effective at night, because the lack of absorbent and waterproof materials at the sides mean they are prone to leaking.
What other products could ‘mix and match’ well with belted pads?
Some men find using different product types at different times works best.2
Some belted pads are rather bulky, and you may prefer to use a more discreet product such as disposable pants when out and the more absorbent belted pads when at home, when discreetness is less important. On the other hand, there may be circumstances when out and about in which you would be willing to compromise on appearance in order to have the reassurance of a pad with good absorption.
If you find that the pads sometimes leak at night because you lie on your side, absorbent bed pads are available that will soak up any leakage. It may also be a good idea to use a waterproof mattress protector. Disposable all-in-one pads may be less likely to leak at night.
In addition to absorbent products, men with bladder leakage also have the option of using male devices such as sheaths and leg bags.
Selecting disposable belted pads
These pads are available in a range of sizes. You will need your waist/hip measurement to find the right size pad. To give the pad the best chance of working well, they need to be comfortable and fit well.
Within each size there are often different absorbencies. If you need help determining how light or heavy your leakage is, click here.
Generally, more absorbent pads are also more bulky, so choosing which will work best for you involves finding the right balance of absorbency and discretion. It may be a good idea to start with a thinner, less absorbent pad and then increase the size/absorbency if necessary until you find one that works for you.
It is hard to say if a belted pad will work well for you without trying it. Some manufacturers of disposable products will send free samples in the post for you to try. Look out for advertisements in magazines and on the internet.
Putting on or changing belted pads
Most men with good use of their hands are able to put belted pads on. They are designed to be easy to put on when standing even if you can only stand briefly, although some have found they take longer than other designs to put on.1 If you have impaired hand control, you may find them easier than standard all-in-one pads.
Like other all-in-one designs, belted pads are very hard to change in a sitting position unless you can lift your bottom off the chair.
Belted pads can also be put on or changed with the assistance of a helper. When lying down, belted pads can be put in place by a helper if you are able to roll from one side to the other. If you need help putting on and changing your pads, you might have to consider both your preferences and those of your helper when selecting products. The product must suit you, but must also be easy for your helper to change.
Guides to fitting pads are usually available on packaging and on the manufacturer’s website.
Belted pads and bowel leakage
These products may be suitable for you if you have bowel leakage or combined bladder and bowel leakage.
They generally provide good cover over the bottom, are secure in position and absorbent. They therefore have the potential to work well for combined bladder and bowel leakage.
Disadvantages of belted pads
Some people find that they are allergic to some of the materials that disposable pads are made of and find that they have to stop using them.
Occasionally, men also find that they can experience chafing or rubbing from raised or elasticated parts of the pad.
Where can I get belted pads?
These are available through retail outlets such as pharmacies and supermarkets, the internet or direct from suppliers. Not all products are available worldwide. See below for links to suppliers and products in your part of the world.
Washable pads & all-in-one products
5
Washable all-in-oneWhat are washable pads & all-in-one products?
Washable versions of some absorbent pad designs are available. They are used in a similar way to the disposable versions.
There are two main types:
-
Purpose-made washable pads – These are available in insert designs (intended to be worn inside close fitting pants) or all-in-one designs. All-in-one designs that have an integral waterproof backing do not require additional products for use. All-in-one designs that do not have an integral waterproof backing require you to wear waterproof pants. They are usually available in a range of sizes (typically small to extra large) and absorbencies. You will find that the bulkiness of the pad increases with higher absorbencies.
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Traditional cotton towelling – Simple squares or shaped pads made from terry towelling, which are secured in place with pins or other fasteners and worn with plastic or other waterproof pants.
| More likely to suit you if... |
Less likely to suit you if... |
- You have moderate or heavy bladder leakage, especially at night
|
- Discreetness and appearance are priorities for you
|
| |
- You do not have adequate laundry facilities
|
| |
- You are unwilling to use washable products
|
| |
- You have bowel leakage or combined bladder and bowel leakage
|
When do large washable pads work best?
Washable products are often bulky and are not widely popular for use during the day when more discreet products may be required.
Traditional cotton towelling squares or shaped pads worn under waterproof pants are used successfully by some people to manage moderate or heavy bladder leakage at night.1 Research suggests that the leakage performance of traditional cotton towelling products is very good and better than equivalent disposable products for some people. Because the way the material is folded can be adapted to suit the user, they have been found to be effective for people who sleep on their sides.4
Research suggests the leakage performance of purpose-made washable pads is relatively poor and they are not well-liked.14
What about fitting?
Most people will find it relatively easy to put on or change washable pads that are intended to be inserted inside close fitting pants. Likewise, washable all-in-ones, often secured with velcro strips, are not difficult to put on or change.
It may take some practice and good hand control to use terry towelling products. Shaped terry towelling pads must be held in place with pins or other fastenings. Square towelling pads must be folded carefully before being held in place with pins or other fastenings. Waterproof pants made of plastic or coated fabrics must be worn over both products.
See below for more information about putting on or changing washable pads.
What other products could ‘mix and match’ well with large washable pads?
Very few people choose to use a washable product exclusively: most opt only to use such products at night or when at home. At other times, most men use disposable absorbent pads, all-in-ones or other products such as a sheath system.
Selecting large washable pads
For all-in-one products and waterproof pants, you will need to take your waist/hip measurement to find the right size. To give the pad the best chance of working well you need to ensure a good fit.
Purpose made washable pads are usually only available in one or two absorbencies and the capacity of the pad will be linked to the size.
For purpose-made pads suggested volumes by manufacturers may be an over-estimate if they are based on absorbency as measured in a laboratory. In reality, these estimates might be much higher than when the pad is being worn in normal use.
Cotton towelling pads are only available in one absorbency. However, it is possible to increase the absorbency of the pad by adding extra layers of cotton towelling. Simply fold smaller squares of cotton towelling and place them inside the main pad.
Measuring the amount of urine you leak can be helpful in finding the right absorbent product. This can be done by weighing a pad before and after use. Click on bladder leakage to find out how to do this.
Putting on or changing large washable pads
6
washable one piece/all-in-one
- Purpose-made all-in-ones are intended to be easy to put on or change. They are shaped, do not require special folding like cotton towelling products, and are usually fastened with hook and loop fastenings or poppers.
- Men with good use of their hands are normally able to put on purpose-made washable all-in-ones on, but some have reported that they are difficult, particularly when standing up or sitting down. You might find it easiest lying down.
- With the assistance of a helper, all-in-ones can be changed when standing, if you are able to do so even for short periods. When lying down, all-in-ones can be put in place by a helper if you are able to roll from one side to the other.
- All-in-ones are very hard to change in a sitting position unless you can lift your bottom off the chair and move from side to side lifting one buttock at a time. It might take some practice with you and your helper to find a system that works for you.
- If you need help putting on and changing your pads, you might have to consider both your preferences and those of your helper when selecting an all-in-one. The product must suit you, but must also be easy for your helper to change.
16
Cotton towelling square (Kite fold)
- Traditional cotton towelling can be difficult to put on and you will need to have good use of your hands.
- Cotton towelling squares have to be folded into the required shape, and then pinned or held in place with pins or ‘Snappis’ or other similar purpose-made fasteners. You then need to pull waterproof pants on over the top.
- Pre-shaped cotton towelling pads may be slightly easier than the square, as folding is not required. However, they also need to be pinned or clipped in place and then worn with waterproof pants.
You can find out more about how to fold terry towelling squares here.
Large washable pads and bowel leakage
Washable products are generally considered to be unsuitable for managing bowel leakage. They are harder to launder when they have been in contact with stool and quickly become stained. Replacing washable products regularly reduces their cost-effectiveness.
However, some people with bowel leakage do use washable products. If the stool if fairly solid, a flushable liner, placed in the pad before use, can prevent the stool coming into contact with the pad and allow the stool to be flushed down the toilet.
What should I do with used pads?
Washable pads must be washed and thoroughly dried before re-use. They can normally be washed and dried in a similar way to regular laundry. Read guidance on how to launder washable products.
If you are at home, soaking washable pads in cold water until you are ready to wash them can help to reduce staining.
If you are away from home, you could put your used pads in a sealed carrier bag inside your bag until you get home. Don’t forget some plastic bags (such as those from supermarkets) often have ventilation holes! You may find that this is too inconvenient, and choose to use disposable products when away from home.
How much do large washable pads cost and where can I buy them?
Purpose-made washable pads for moderate/heavy leakage tend to be expensive to buy. However, if they work for you they can be cost-effective over time.
Cotton towelling squares are relatively cheap. You could even buy a few metres of cotton towelling from a shop to make into a pad to try yourself to see if it works for you.
Although adults who use cotton towelling pads are understandably concerned not to have these compared with infant nappies/diapers, there are several websites that sell washable products for infants and for adults. These sites can be useful places to find hints and tips on washing and fastening/folding these pads.
Adult washable products and waterproof pants are not very widely available in shops. You are most likely to find them in mail order catalogues or on the internet.
Disadvantages of large washable pads
Purpose-made washable pads do not perform as well as disposable products for moderate to heavy incontinence because they do not contain the super-absorbent polymers used in disposable versions to retain urine. Therefore, there is a higher risk of leakage from the pad onto clothing.14
As for all fabrics, you may have sensitivity to materials used to make the pads: for example, polyester, which is used for the top sheet and the main body of many washable pads.
Cotton towelling products worn with waterproof pants can resemble infants’ diapers (nappies), which some people understandably find unacceptable. Cotton towelling tends to feel comfortable next to the skin when dry, but can feel uncomfortable when wet. They are also bulky to wear and can be onerous to launder.
Where can I get large washable products?
These are mainly available direct from suppliers or the internet. Not all products are available worldwide. See below for links to suppliers and products in your part of the world.