Underpads are large square or rectangle-shaped products that go under the body to provide leak protection. They absorb liquids and protect your beds, mattresses, furniture, wheelchairs, and car seats from incontinence. These pads have a soft and comfortable top layer, an absorbent middle layer, and a plastic-like bottom layer that prevents leakages.
There are two types of underpads: disposable and reusable or washable. As the name suggests, disposable incontinence underpads are for one-time use only, while reusable underpads are machine washable.
How To Choose the Best Underpad?
Adult underpads will have distinct features that differentiate them by potential use and effectiveness. Some of these features may be more beneficial to you than others, and the best one for you will depend on your needs.
Disposable or Washable Underpads
Depending on your preference, you can choose either or both.
Washable underpads usually have a cotton/poly blend backing, an inner fabric layer to lock moisture, and a soft quilted top. They are sometimes less absorbent but more secure than disposable underpads.
On the other hand, polymers trap liquids in disposable underpads. However, disposable underpads do not always secure well and can move around while sleeping or sitting.
Absorption
Various underpads offer different absorbency levels—light, medium, and heavy. The absorbency levels will depend on the core material used in the incontinence underpads. There are two types of core materials:
- Polymer cores are more absorbent and keep the top sheet dry after any leakage into the underpad. They also protect you from skin damage and minimize odors. The more polymer material, the more absorbent it will be, irrespective of the size of the underpad.
- Fluff cores are less absorbent, and the top layer can feel wet as the moisture is not locked away. This can cause discomfort and pose a risk to skin health. These underpads are usually less expensive, but you may have to change them more often.
Backing material strength
If you are looking for underpads for your bed, then products with a cloth backing are less likely to move around while sleeping. Cloth-backed underpads are also more comfortable.
Plastic or vinyl-backed underpads tend to move around, but the backing provides more protection for anything under the pad, such as sheets or blankets.
Breathability
You can choose underpads with a breathable backing that allows air to circulate for better skin health. These underpads rarely have a polypropylene backing.
Top sheet
The top sheets of underpads come in varying degrees of softness. For sensitive skin or those who lay on the underpad for a long time, choose underpads with the softest top sheet.
Size
The size of the underpad will depend on the surface you want to cover. Underpads for beds come in different sizes. For ideal coverage, choose an underpad that corresponds to the width of your bed. Pick a smaller size for the chair. But make sure the pad is at least 6-8 inches bigger on both sides of the area that needs to be covered.
For all your adult underpad requirements and any other information, Simply Medical can meet your needs.