Because of the multitude of choices of adult diapers available on the market, it is difficult to decide which product is correct for your needs. Hopefully, this blog will help you with the decision making process.
The majority of incontinent people require a moderate/heavy brief that will hold a normal void (loss of urine). That is the reason why these are the most common diapers seen on store shelves or online. These types of products range in price form $40.00 to $120.00 per case and most manufactures produce them. You can choose from a low quality latex diaper to one that is cloth-like and can hold up to 3 to 4 voids (loss of urine).
When making your decision, keep in mind that comfort and ease are just as important as function. Adult diapers made of cloth-like material are much quieter and rustle free for the more active person. A latex diaper may be better solution for a bed-ridden person because they slide easier and do not get bunched up. Also when purchasing adult diapers some other things to consider are a wetness indicator, quality of leg gathers and re-attachability. Remember most people with incontinence void 3 or 4 small times, so make sure the diaper can handle this and not be soaked after the first time. A good diaper will have a blue layer (moisture absorption material) that will wick (remove) away the moisture and keep you dry. With fecal incontinence you will need an overnight diaper with good leg gathers. If you see any kind of rash or irritation use a cream with dimethicone and a cloth-like diaper since it breathes.
Finally, remember that the fit of the diaper is critical to its performance. When measuring for adult diapers remember it is not the waist size but hip size that is measured.
When I first started purchasing adult diapers for a relative, we started with a moderate/heavy diaper and quickly realized this was not going to be adequate. We changed to an overnight diaper, which did control the leakage and odor properly. I would recommend this strategy of starting with a middle of the road diaper in price and quality then decide which direction you need to go in. | 