Washable Incontinence Pants vs Disposable Incontinence Pants

Incontinence pants are the preferable choice for many users. In contrast to pads, they can be worn like normal underwear and are less bulky than some nappies and pads.

Incontinence pants are available in both washable and disposable designs. With various brands to choose from, the market offers a diverse range of pants to choose from. If incontinence pants are your chosen design, it is important to know which design is suitable for your severity level and lifestyle.

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Washable Incontinence Pants

Washable pants are available in a range of different designs, and are less absorbent than disposable pants.

Pros

Cost-effective. Washable pants last a long time, as they can be re-washed numerous times. This makes them a cost effective, durable solution.

Discreet. Washable incontinence pants are thinner, meaning they are often more discreet and undetectable.

Feel like Normal Underwear. This is a key advantage of washable pants. Washable pants have no bulk and are designed to feel just like your normal pants. This can help to “normalize” products for some people, causing discretion and increasing confidence.

Feature Anatomically Shaped Options. You can find washable pants in many designs specially for men and women. For example, there are men’s incontinence shorts and women’s knickers available in the market.

Maximum Comfort. Washable pants are often smaller and provide a close fit, making them more comfortable than a heavier product. Designed from materials similar to normal underwear, their soft feel on the skin ensures maximum comfort.

Cons

Less Absorbent than Disposable Pants. Washable incontinence pants are designed for people with lighter incontinence, and hold much less absorbency capacity than disposable pants. They are therefore unsuitable for faecal incontinence pants.

Money can be Spent on Washing. Washable pants are very cost effective. However, they do increase the amount of washing you have to do regularly

Disposable Incontinence Pants

Disposable incontinence pants are traditional pull up incontinence pants. They have much higher absorbency than washable pants.

Pros

Higher Absorbency. Disposable pants are designed for heavier incontinence, which makes them a more reliable option for those who need them.

Ideal for Faecal and Urinary Incontinence. Unlike washable pants, disposable pants are suitable for managing both faecal and urinary incontinence.

Can be thrown away and replaced. You don’t need to worry about washing disposable pants, as they can easily be disposed of and replaced.

Advanced odour control systems. As these pants are highly absorbent, they often have more advanced

Cons

Less cost effective. Disposable pants don’t last as long as washable pants and are replaced often. This makes them a less cost-effective option.

Feel less discreet. Disposable pants have less of a “normal underwear” feel, and often feel bulkier and more noticeable.

Aren’t available in different styles. Disposable pants are not available in as many designs as washable pants.

Which Option Should You Choose?

If you have light incontinence, washable pants are the recommended option. They are also highly durable and can be washed numerous times. If you are looking primarily for comfort, washable products are recommended.

For those with heavier urinary or faecal incontinence, disposable pull up pants are a more suitable option.

Generally, the more economical and discreet option are the washable pants. However, if higher absorbency is needed, we recommend using the pull up pants.