Reuse Reusable Incontinence Products

Reusable incontinence products are becoming increasingly popular because of their many benefits. They can save you money from buying disposable products which can become expensive. They will also help reduce your household rubbish which can mount up if you are using lots of products. There will also be the benefits of reduced manufacturing of disposable products which can be resource intensive.

Disposable incontinence products can account for a large amount of household waste with evidence suggesting that adults with incontinence may use 1,000 pairs of disposable pants per year.

There are lots of options available when it comes to reusable incontinence products, however it is important to note these are mainly tailored to those with bladder incontinence issues that are mild to moderate. For those with more complex needs these products may not be suitable and it is best to check with health care providers if these would suit your circumstances.

To find out which products are available and if they might work for you check out our products section, there is also FAQ’s for answering questions you may have.

Washable Absorbent Products

Washable pants for women

Simply a pair of pants with an absorbent inner panel – popularised recently with the surge in demand for similar ‘period pants’. They come in all shapes, styles, sizes and absorbencies, and can offer peace of mind when out and about. The pants are advertised as leak and odour free, and a range of materials are available to suit your preference. These look like normal underwear and will not have the ‘rustly’ feel which disposables may have

Washable pads

A shaped absorbent pad with wings that popper around your pants similar to a disposable pad, or washable period pad. Spare pads fold up discreetly and used pads can be stored in a small, stylish wet bag. There are lots of sizes and absorbencies to suit your needs, whether for day or night-time use.

Men’s absorbent underwear

A pair of men’s trunks or briefs with an absorbent, leak-proof liner in the front pouch that comes in a range of absorbencies for confidence and comfort.  These will look similar to standard underwear and can be more discreet than disposables. The pants are advertised as leak and odour free and a range of materials are available to suit your preference. These look like normal underwear and will not have the ‘rustly’ feel which disposables may have.

Washable undies for kids

If your child is transitioning to ‘big kid pants’ or dealing with mild incontinence, there’s a variety of options available, including underwear for teenagers. These look like normal underwear and will not have the ‘rustly’ feel which disposables may have. They also come in different patterns and colours so you can choose what suits best.

Booster pads for these underwear may also be an option to increase the absorbency of the pants. These can also be washed and reused in a similar way to the reusable pads.

FAQs

Will I save money?

Initially, reusable products can be expensive to purchase, products such as pants may be in the region of £8-£12 but can last up to 5 years. With daily wear this could mean you save hundreds of pounds on disposable products that can cost £2-£5 per pack.

Where can I buy them?

Reusable incontinence products are available in many retailers, from high street, supermarkets and online.

If you are using products when you are out and about you may need to carry a ‘wet’ bag to bring used products home.

How do I wash them?

Following the manufacturer’s instructions is always best, however they can usually just be rinsed and then go in your washing machine as usual.

How many products do I need?

This will depend on how often you use the products and how regularly you wash them. It is advisable to start with a few to test and then buy more when you are happy, they work for you.