How to Use Incontinence Bed Pads and Protect Your Mattress

How to Protect Mattress from Bed Wetting?

It is important to keep mattresses dry for a better night’s rest. Mattresses are costly and can be challenging to clean after being soaked. Whether you or someone you are caring for is living with incontinence, it makes sense to spend money on incontinence supplies for bedwetting and protect your mattress. 

The best type of nighttime incontinence products depends on how frequently one wets the bed. An individual can experience mild, moderate to heavy incontinence.

How do I choose the right size bed pad?

Disposable Bed Pads for Incontinence

Incontinence bed pads, also known as “chux”, are meant to absorb urine and prevent leaks. Bed underpads are designed to wick away moisture and keep mattresses dry. Disposable bed pads have a waterproof backing and a soft, absorbent top layer. Quilted underpads for adults usually come in various sizes. For larger mattresses, underpads 30” x 36” fit larger mattresses best. 

Bedwetting pads for kids generally fit twin-sized mattresses. Underpads 27” x 70” with tuck in sides secure onto the mattress to catch any leaks even while tossing and turning.

How To Use Disposable Incontinence Underpads

1. Cut the product packaging with scissors and open the bag on one side. 
2. Carefully reach into the bag and pull one bed pad out of the packaging. Keep the remaining underpads inside the bag. Stow away extra pads accordingly.
3. Hold the pad with two hands. Find the corners and pull the two sides away from each other until you see the white quilted top layer.
4. Open up the pad by unfolding along creases like a newspaper.
5. Hold the edges of the bed pad securely and “throw” it away from you to catch some air. This will open the underpad, completely exposing the absorbent top layer.
6. Place the pad on the bed white side up. If the underpad has adhesive strips, remove the paper cover from the strip.
7. Press down on the incontinence pad firmly, securing it onto the bed sheet. 

How Often Should You Change Incontinence Bed Pads?

You should change disposable bed pads frequently, especially after being soiled. Depending on the degree of incontinence, you may have to change the underpad more frequently to avoid irritating the skin barrier. A good rule of thumb is as follows:

• 1 to 2 underpads per day for light to mild incontinence
• 2 to 4 underpads per day for moderate incontinence
• 4 to 6 underpads per day for heavy incontinence

What are the benefits of using bed pads?

Bed pads are designed to provide a protective layer between the body and the bed, preventing damage to the mattress or bedding due to spills, incontinence, or other accidents. They offer several benefits to individuals who need them, including:

1. Protecting the mattress and bedding: One of the primary benefits of using bed pads is that they can help protect the mattress and bedding from damage due to spills, incontinence, or other accidents. This can help extend the life of the mattress and save money in the long run.

2. Improving hygiene: Bed pads can help improve hygiene by preventing urine or other bodily fluids from coming into direct contact with the skin. This can help prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.

3. Reducing laundry: Using bed pads can help reduce the amount of laundry that needs to be done, as they can be easily replaced or washed. This can save time and energy for caregivers or individuals who need to manage their own laundry.

4. Increasing comfort: For individuals who have incontinence or other medical conditions, bed pads can help increase comfort by providing a soft, absorbent layer between the body and the bed. This can help prevent skin irritation and improve overall comfort during sleep.

5. Providing peace of mind: Knowing that there is a protective layer between the body and the bed can provide peace of mind for both caregivers and individuals who need to use bed pads. This can help reduce stress and anxiety, and allow for a more restful sleep.

Tips For Keeping Mattresses Dry

Waterproof Mattress Covers 

Waterproof mattress covers are a good investment, especially when keeping your mattress dry, They serve as mattress protectors and usually go underneath a bed sheet. There are a variety of versions to choose from including a mattress protector with zipper, flat mattress pads that anchor with elastic loops on each corner, or mattress toppers with an elasticized fitted skirt.

• Use a zippered, vinyl waterproof bedding cover. This will keep your mattress fully protected as it completely covers your mattress and fits snugly. This will prevent stains and moisture that can ruin your mattress.

• An additional layer of protection can be added by using a waterproof bedding cushion. This goes on top of a vinyl mattress cover and can offer extra comfort, especially for bed-ridden individuals.

• If you are experiencing moderate to severe incontinence, a waterproof underpad can be laid out to provide an extra barrier against urine leaks. Some waterproof pads are reusable and can be laundered for maximum product use.

Super Absorbent Pads

Invest in super absorbent underpads to keep your skin and mattress dry. High quality underpads can make life easier by preventing unwanted spills and leaks. Disposable underpads are safe and hygienic to use as they are changed frequently. This is recommended for skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes, and home health care.

Avoid Skin Issues Associated with Incontinence 

Using the right incontinence products can help safeguard you or your loved ones from skin issues that can lead to discomfort. Properly changing soiled underpads can help prevent bacterial infections associated with moisture and poor hygiene. Wipes, creams, and other incontinence products such as adult diapers, sanitary pads, and bladder control pads can further absorb urine leaks.

Can bed pads prevent bed sores? 

While bed pads are primarily designed to protect the mattress and bedding from spills or incontinence, they may also help prevent bed sores in certain situations. Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers, are areas of skin that have been damaged due to prolonged pressure on a particular part of the body, such as the buttocks, hips, or heels. These sores can be painful and difficult to treat, and they can develop quickly in individuals who spend a lot of time in bed.

Bed pads may help prevent bed sores in several ways. First, they can provide a soft, absorbent layer between the body and the mattress, reducing the pressure on certain areas of the body. This can help redistribute pressure and prevent the development of bed sores. In addition, bed pads may also help prevent bed sores by wicking away moisture from the skin. Moisture can increase the risk of developing bed sores, as it can soften the skin and make it more susceptible to damage. Bed pads can absorb moisture and prevent it from coming into contact with the skin, helping to keep the skin dry and reduce the risk of bed sores.

San Pablo Commercial is a family-owned, small business with a mission to deliver affordable medical supplies to their customers. We offer a variety of incontinence products including SPC disposable underpads, reusable incontinence underwear, sanitary pads, and more. We ship directly to our customer’s home within 2 to 3 business days. SPC disposable quilted underpads are also available on Amazon. We care deeply about our customers and want to make ordering incontinence supplies easier so that they can spend less time cleaning up spills and messes.