From frequent wake-ups to needing to change your sheets — incontinence bed pads are an essential item as a part of managing of incontinence or leakage from catheters.
The best incontinence bed pads are a perfect solution to help protect your bed mattress and bed sheets.
Available in a choice of different sizes and either washable or disposable, incontinence bed sheets and pads provide that extra level of protection and prevent any leakages occurring.
Quick Guide to my Top Recommendations
- Disposable incontinence bed pads – Easy Care Solutions Disposable Incontinence Bed Pads
- Washable incontinence bed pads – Medokare Washable Soft Reusable Waterproof Bed Mats
- Tena incontinence bed pads – Tena Bed Super Incontinence Bed Pads
- Absorbing Disposable Incontinence Bed pads – Readi Disposable Incontinence Bed Pads
- Superdry incontinence bed pads – Abri-Soft Superdry Disposable Bed Pads
Buying Guide to choosing the Best Incontinence Bed Pads
Cost. If you are using bed pads regularly then the cost of purchasing them can soon add up. The cheapest option is for you to buy washable or reusable pads.
Time. Disposable bed pads will save you the time washing and drying reusable ones, so it depends on how much available time you have.
Pad absorbency. A high quality bed pad will absorb quickly and is especially helpful for those who suffer with a sudden rush of urine, which is common in many types of incontinence.
Pad leakage. Waterproof bed pads should retain the absorbed urine when the user puts pressure on the pad or moves around on it.
Material.. Look for a high quality pad that should wick water away from your skin so that you remain dry and comfortable even after the pad has been used.
In addition, you will want an incontinence pad where the bottom layer grips well to your sheets and the pad stays flat.
Best Incontinence Bed Pads 2023 – Reviews
1) Easy Care Solutions Disposable Incontinence Bed Pads
( 60 x 90 cm Case of 100 )
(Best disposable incontinence bed pads)
These disposable incontinence bed pads are available here
(see price)
Easy Care Solutions Disposable Incontinence Bed Pads provide a soft feel against the skin and are guaranteed to keep the user comfortable and dry, whilst consistently protecting your bed and other surfaces.
Pros
- Hassle-free disposal and latex free.
- Strong yet feel gentle on your skin. Maintains hygiene and keeps users contamination free.
- Maximum absorption ensures dry days and peaceful nights.
- Perfect for overnight use: dry bed-sheets provide uninterrupted sleep and comfort for you.
- These pads are ideal for clinical and home use such as beds, cots, wheelchairs, sofas and other surfaces.
Cons
- If you are on a budget then you may prefer to buy reusable pads.
CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW
2) Medokare Washable Soft Reusable Waterproof Bed Mats for Incontinence ( 2 Pack 36″ x 52″ )
( Best Washable Incontinence Bed Pads )
These washable reusable waterproof bed pads are available here (see price)
The Medokare washable incontinence bed pads are the perfect answer to help with your bladder and bowel incontinence. These large slip resistant pads are suitable for large King size beds and the comfortable cotton blend pad is great for the elderly.
Pros
- This bed pad is a great size and will fit even a large king-size bed.
- The incontinence pad is very absorbable soaking up to 1500ml of water so you are guaranteed dry sheets all night.
- Very soft and comfortable.
- As it is reusable you can wash this pad over and over in the washing machine and dryer.
- Even with repeated washing the bed pad’s waterproof layer doesn’t break down and it won’t shrink.
- Washable pads are a cost effective, economical way of managing your incontinence.
Cons
- The edges can curl over a little after time.
CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW
3) Tena Bed Super Incontinence Bed pads
(60 x 60cm – Pack of 30)
(Best Tena Incontinence Pads)
These Tena incontinence bed pads are available here (see price)
TENA Bed Super incontinence bed pads give you hygienic protection of your bed against accidental leakages. The soft surface material is kind to the skin, and the absorbent core and waterproof plastic back-sheet provides maximum protection and hygiene for you.
Pros
- Super soft and very comfortable to sleep on.
- Very absorbent and has a strong waterproof plastic back sheet that won’t stretch and tear.
- Perfect to use as an incontinence cover for chair, wheelchairs, sofas and other surfaces from accidental urine loss.
- The pads have a super – absorbent Micro Bead within them that lock away liquids so you stay dry all night long.
- A good quality pad for the price.
Cons
Some people may prefer to use a reusable bed pad.
CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW
4) Readi Disposable Incontinence Bed pads
( Best Absorbent Incontinence Bed Pad )
These disposable bed pads are available here (see price)
Pros
- The pads have a good layer of absorbing material and waterproofing underlay with substantial borders.
- You can place the incontinence sheets over the side of the mattress where mattress protectors don’t reach.
- Good value for money.
- Instantly absorb liquid throughout the night.
Cons
- They don’t come in a size large enough to accommodate a double bed.
CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW
5) Abri-Soft Superdry Disposable Bed Pads
( Best Bed Pads for Heavy Incontinence )
These disposable bed pads are available here (see price)
The Abena Abri-Soft Superdry Disposable Bed Protectors are ideal for use as additional bed protection against urinary leaks. The additional tuck in flaps ensure the pad is securely in place ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.
Pros
- The pads are super absorbent holding 33 times their own weight in liquid to give you peace of mind against any leakages occurring.
- Gentle against even the most sensitive skin.
- Has tuck in flaps which keep the pad securely in place.
- Great pads for reducing odours and any unwanted smells.
- Gives you the confidence to stay dry and comfortable at all times.
Cons
- Some people with only light leakage may manage with thinner pads.
CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW
Disposable v Washable Incontinence Bed Pads
( Benefits )
If you are buying incontinence bed pads then it is important to know the
advantages and disadvantages of using them.
So let’s take a look at the disposable type first.
Disposable Bed Pads
Advantages
- Disposable incontinence bed pads are considered more hygienic as they are thrown away after each use.
- They generally offer higher levels of absorbency than washable bed pads.
Disadvantages
- If you are using bed incontinence pads regularly then it can become expensive.
- Disposing of incontinence sheets and pads can prove difficult when you are away from home.
Washable ( or reusable ) Bed Pads
Advantages
- With the new designs of reusable incontinence bed pads available now that can be washed many times, it is economical and saves you money to buy washable ones.
- Definitely more eco-friendly and better for the environment to reuse pads.
- It will save you time having to keep shopping and stocking up on them.
Disadvantages
- It is tiring and time-consuming having to wash bed pads regularly.
- Not very private if you have to hang out the bed pads on a radiator or washing line to dry.
5 Key Benefits of Washable Waterproof Bed Pads
- Protection for your bed. Bed sheets feature a waterproof backing to prevent leakage seeping into the mattress.
- Additional layer of comfort. Bed sheets have a soft design, helping you enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep.You can also relax without worrying about your bed becoming ruined.
- Discreet and lightweight. Bed pads are lightweight and can be discreetly placed on your bedding without drawing attention.
- Available in a variety of different sizes. Incontinence bed pads are available in sizes covering anything from a single mattress to a king-size.
- Convenient and easy to fit. Incontinence bed pads are simple and easy to fit to any bed.
Tips & Advice for using Incontinence Bed Pads
- Incontinence bed pads should be changed as soon as possible after they have been soiled. This will help to avoid incontinence associated dermatitis.
- For extra support and security then try wearing absorbent briefs or pads as well as using bed pads.
- Shop around and check out different brands to find the one that is suitable for your own personal incontinence needs.
- Shaped pads can often move around during the night when worn alongside a bed bad. Wearing pants or an all in one can be more effective.
- Use a bladder diary This is a great way to record how much you drink, when you urinate, the amount of urine you produce, whether you had an urge to urinate, and also the number of incontinence episodes.
It’s worth considering that waterproof sheets are designed to protect, not absorb. It is probably a good idea to use incontinence pads overnight as the pads will absorb the liquid, and the sheets protect the mattress.
If you want to protect more than your mattress you can also purchase waterproof pillows and duvet protectors, so they are well worth looking into if you have a severe case of incontinence.
Common Causes of Nocturnal Enuresis
(Night time Incontinence)
- Genetic factors. A recent study showed that a person with bed wetting parents actually has a 77% chance of also having incontinence problems.
- A lack of the anti diuretic hormone. This hormone is a brain chemical which signals for the kidneys to release less water. In some individuals, inadequate levels of this hormone are produced.
- Conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Dementia or Stroke.
- Consuming bladder irritants.
- Chocolate
- Spicy food
- Certain acidic fruits — oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes — this includes fruit juice drinks
- Alcohol
- Tomato-based products
- Carbonated drinks
- Tea, coffee and carbonated drinks, even those without caffeine.
- Bladder or kidney infection
What causes urinary incontinence in the elderly ?
What are the 4 types of urinary incontinence ?
1) Stress Incontinence
This is the most common type of bladder control problem in older women. It occurs when urine leaks as pressure is put on the bladder by weakened muscles, for example, during exercise, lifting heavy objects, coughing, sneezing, or even laughing.
The result can be a small leakage of urine, or in some instance a complete loss of control. It’s the most common type of bladder control problem in younger and middle-age women.
Stress incontinence is most often caused by physical changes in the body, such as the menopause, childbirth or pregnancy.
2) Overflow Incontinence
Overflow incontinence is most common in older adults, and usually twice as common in men than women.
It happens when your bladder doesn’t empty completely when you urinate. Small amounts of the remaining urine leak out later because your bladder becomes too full. The main cause of this is known as chronic urinary retention.
3) Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence happens when people have a sudden need to urinate and cannot hold their urine long enough to get to the toilet.
When your bladder muscles squeeze incorrectly or lose the ability to relax, even when your bladder is empty, you may feel a constant urge to urinate. This is sometimes called an ‘ overactive bladder. ‘
Urge urinary incontinence is associated with an increase in falls, particularly in the elderly. Falls prevention programmes need to include an assessment of incontinence and referral for interventions to help with the symptoms of urge incontinence.
4) Functional Incontinence
Functional incontinence occurs from physical problems delaying you from getting to the toilet in time. This can be for various reasons, including poor eyesight, mobility issues, neurological conditions, or cognitive problems such as dementia.
Functional incontinence is often the result of a physical condition making it difficult to get to the toilet. The reasons could include an inability to remove clothing quickly, or a delay in moving from a wheelchair to the toilet.
Although functional incontinence is often experienced by elderly people, it can impact anyone with a disability that makes it more difficult to get to a toilet.
Urinary incontinence treatment for elderly
Here are some things that may help you day to day manage your incontinence –
- Increasing your fluid intake. Try to drink up to 2 litres a day.
- Having a high-fibre diet.
- Pelvic floor exercises.
- Bladder training.
- Adopting good toilet habits.
- Having the right medications, such as a short-term course of laxatives to treat constipation.
Conclusion – Best Incontinence Bed Pads 2023
Urinary incontinence bed pads are a quick, extremely hygienic and convenient way of managing your incontinence overnight.
Incontinence bed pads are a perfect way to ensure your bed stays dry, keeping you comfortable and able to have a good night’s sleep.
With so many styles and options available it can be a little daunting knowing which product is right for you.
Hopefully you have found what you are looking for, but if you need any further help or advice, please feel free to contact me at mark@elderlyfallsprevention.com and I will be happy to help.
