When someone you’re supporting starts experiencing incontinence, working out which products to use is often the first practical hurdle. There are more options than you would expect: pads, pull-up pants, all-in-one briefs, waterproof mattress covers, and more.
Incontinence affects an estimated 14 million people in the UK, but finding the right product for a particular situation is rarely straightforward. This guide explains what’s available, how each type works, and what to think about before choosing.
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What are incontinence products?
Incontinence products are items designed to absorb, contain, or protect against urine or faecal leakage.
They’re used by anyone whose bladder or bowel control has been affected by illness, injury, or the changes that come with age. For some people they’re a short-term measure during recovery; for others they become part of everyday life.
Types of incontinence products
The three main categories are pads, pants, and bedding protection. Each suits a different level of leakage and a different set of circumstances.
Incontinence pads
Incontinence pads are shaped absorbent inserts worn inside regular underwear. They come in a wide range of absorbency levels, from slim liners for light leaks to larger shaped pads for moderate bladder leakage through the day.
They are a good option for people with light to moderate urinary incontinence and who can manage their own personal care. They’re discreet and straightforward to carry and change. The main limitation of incontinence pads is fit. A pad needs close-fitting underwear to stay in place, which can be a problem for people with limited mobility.
Incontinence pants
Incontinence pants, sometimes called pull-up pants or all-in-one briefs, look and feel more like ordinary underwear. They are suited to moderate to heavy incontinence and are useful when a pad no longer provides enough coverage. All-in-one pants fasten at the sides and are easier to manage for people who can’t stand or who need a carer’s help.
Modern incontinence pants have a slimmer design and are hardly noticeable under clothing. Many people find the adjustment smaller than they expected.
Bedding protection for incontinence
Bedding protection covers the mattress and sheet surface beneath someone who experiences leakage at night or while seated. There are various options available, including waterproof mattress protectors (fitted covers under the sheet), absorbent bed pads placed on top, and waterproof chair covers.
Unprotected mattresses absorb moisture quickly, develop odour, and become a hygiene problem. Good waterproof bedding protection prevents disrupted sleep and reduces the strain of overnight sheet changes.
Reusable vs disposable incontinence products
Disposable products are convenient and widely available. For someone new to managing incontinence, or while someone’s needs are still changing, they’re the lowest-effort starting point. The ongoing cost is the main drawback as several pads or pants per day adds up over time.
Reusable options, including washable pants, cloth pads, and waterproof bedding covers, carry a higher upfront cost but reduce long-term spending. They also produce far less waste. Washable options for moderate incontinence have improved considerably in the last few years, making them a good choice in many situations.
Many people use a mix of both. Reusable bedding protection overnight, disposable pants for days out, washable pants at home. There’s no single right answer; find what works for the person’s routine and stick with it.
How to choose the right product
Choosing the right incontinence product comes down to four things:
- how much leakage there is
- how it’s packaged and rated
- how mobile the person is
- whether the product is for daytime or overnight use.
Frequency and type of leakage
Start with how much leakage there is and when it happens.
Light leakage during physical activity or sneezing (stress incontinence) is usually managed well with a shaped pad worn inside regular underwear.
Frequent or unpredictable leakage through the day (urge incontinence) will usually require a product with more coverage, such as pull-up pants or an all-in-one brief.
Look at the product packaging
Absorbency levels on packaging are usually shown as drops: one drop for light, four or five for heavy.
Most brands tend to use this way of showing levels of absorbency.
Consider mobility
Someone fully mobile and independent can use almost any product.
For a person with limited hand strength, difficulty bending, or who needs a carer’s help, a product that can be changed quickly without standing is more practical.
Think about day and night separately
Overnight products need higher absorbency.
They should also keep moisture away from the skin, because prolonged contact with wetness increases the risk of skin soreness and pressure damage.
Tips for managing incontinence at home
Managing incontinence at home on a daily basis comes down to a few consistent habits.
Get these right and you can reduce discomfort, protect the skin, and help the person you’re supporting feel comfortable rather than self-conscious.
Manage skin care
Skin care is the most important routine to build. Skin that regularly contacts moisture becomes sore quickly, and can lead to further issues such as bed sores.
Washing and drying the skin at each change and applying a barrier cream reduces the risk of irritation. The NHS guidance on urinary incontinence covers skin care in more detail.
Follow a schedule
Change products on a regular schedule rather than waiting until they feel saturated. For people who need assistance, a planned routine is more manageable than responding to incidents as they arise.
Manage odours
Modern incontinence products contain odour-neutralising materials, and disposing of used items promptly in a lidded, lined bin helps. Encourage the person you’re supporting to drink enough fluid (around 1.5 to 2 litres of water daily, as advised by the Bladder and Bowel Community) to keep urine more dilute and less pungent.
Maintain dignity
Offer dignity to your loved one as you help them manage their incontinence. Use calm, matter-of-fact language during personal care, and ensure privacy at changing time.
When someone feels that personal care is handled with respect and without awkwardness, they’re more likely to ask for help early rather than waiting until an issue becomes more serious.
When to seek medical advice
Book a GP appointment if you notice a sudden change in bladder or bowel control.
This includes:
- Incontinence that has come on quickly,
- Leakage accompanied by pain,
- Blood in urine or stools, or
- A change that feels different to normal.
These can indicate a urinary tract infection, a bowel problem, or a medical issue that needs further investigation.
Persistent skin soreness or breakdown is another signal. A district nurse or GP can assess whether a different product or routine would help. A continence nurse, reached through a GP referral, will sometimes offer interventions such as pelvic floor exercises or medication that reduce leakage rather than just containing it
How carers and home care services can help
Managing incontinence at home is much harder without consistent support. A care worker who visits regularly can assist with product changes, monitor the skin for early signs of soreness, and make sure washing and barrier cream routines are followed.
For family members caring for a loved one, the personal care side of this role is often the most emotionally demanding part of supporting them. Carers UK provides practical guidance and support for people in this position, including a free helpline. Call 0808 808 7777, free from any UK phone.
If continence care is part of a wider care service package, make sure it’s included in the care plan, with details of which products are in use and what the person’s preferences are.
FAQs
Do incontinence products cause skin problems?
They can if not changed frequently enough or if the skin isn’t cleaned properly between changes. Prolonged contact with moisture is the main cause of skin breakdown. Washing and drying the skin at each change and using a barrier cream reduces the risk. If the skin becomes sore or broken, speak to a GP or district nurse.
Can I get incontinence products on the NHS?
Yes, someone with significant continence needs can access products through their local NHS continence service. What products are available varies by area. Ask your GP for a referral to a continence nurse, who can assess your needs and advise on what is available locally.
How do I know which absorbency level to choose?
Most products use a drop rating on the packaging: one drop for light, four or five drops for heavy. Start with a product rated slightly above what you think you need. A continence nurse can give personalised advice if you’re unsure.
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