The Top 5 Causes of Leaking Incontinence Pads and Pants and How to Prevent Them

Leaks are one of the most frustrating challenges for people managing incontinence. You trust your pads or pants to do their job, but sometimes accidents happen anyway. When they do, it’s not just about the mess—it can affect confidence, comfort, and even skin health. The reality is that leaks usually happen for a reason, and once you understand the common causes, preventing them becomes much easier.

Poor fit and sizing of incontinence products

One of the biggest reasons pads and pants leak is simply that they don’t fit properly. A product that’s too small won’t cover enough surface area, while one that’s too large may shift around and allow liquid to escape. Everyone’s body is shaped differently, so what works for one person might not work for another. That’s why it’s important to try different sizes and styles until you find the right match. Products like SPC reusable underwear and SPC bladder control pads are tested for both comfort and fit, reducing the chances of leaks caused by shifting or gapping.

Using the wrong absorbency level

Not all incontinence episodes are the same. Light bladder leaks from sneezing or laughing need less absorbency than overnight or heavy incontinence. If you’re using a pad designed for light leaks during nighttime, chances are you’ll wake up with wet sheets. Choosing products with the right absorbency level makes all the difference. SPC quilted underpads 30 x 36, for example, provide an extra layer of overnight protection so caregivers and individuals can rest without worry.

Product changes that aren’t frequent enough

Even the best products have a limit. Wearing the same pad or pants for too long increases the risk of leaks because once the product is saturated, there’s nowhere else for liquid to go. This is especially true at night or during long outings. Building a routine for regular product changes helps keep the skin healthy and greatly reduces accidents. For those who struggle with mobility, caregivers can rely on high-absorbency SPC incontinence products that last longer while still keeping skin dry.

Incorrect product placement or application

Sometimes leaks happen not because of the product itself but how it’s worn. Pads that aren’t secured tightly or pants that aren’t pulled up correctly can leave small gaps where liquid escapes. It’s easy to overlook these small details, especially when someone is tired or in a rush. Taking a few extra seconds to check placement before getting dressed often prevents leaks later on.

Medical or lifestyle factors that affect leakage

Sometimes the problem isn’t the product—it’s the situation. Conditions like overactive bladder, enlarged prostate, or post-pregnancy muscle weakness can cause sudden, heavy leaks that overwhelm a pad or pant. Drinking large amounts of fluids close to bedtime or consuming bladder irritants like caffeine can make leakage worse. Managing these underlying factors with the help of a doctor, along with choosing stronger absorbency products, can cut down on unexpected leaks.

Preventing leaks with the right combination of care and supplies

At the end of the day, leaks are usually preventable with the right mix of sizing, absorbency, product changes, and lifestyle adjustments. SPC incontinence products are made with high-quality materials and undergo thorough testing to ensure super absorbency and fewer leaks, giving caregivers and individuals peace of mind. Pairing the right product with healthy habits creates a reliable system that reduces stress and restores dignity.

At San Pablo Commercial, we're a family-run business dedicated to supporting seniors and caregivers by offering dependable, affordable incontinence supplies. From SPC disposable underpads to reusable underwear and sanitary pads, our range is designed for comfort and confidence. We understand the challenges of managing incontinence and strive to make it easier for you to stay clean, dry, and independent every day.