Sincerely Senior is reader-supported. When you purchase through one of our links we may earn an affiliate commission (at no extra cost to you).

Best Bed Pads For Elderly: How To Pick Top-Tier Pads For A Leak-Free Sheet In Your Sleep

white bed and furniture in bedroom with window

Last Updated: July 18, 2021

While we’re sleeping to our hearts’ content, accidents may happen. (Oops!)

But that’s okay!

It’s nothing to be ashamed of; we’re humans.

There will be times when our stubborn bladder won’t agree with us. Luckily, bed pads are available to help us with this slight complication.

After some reading here and there, I found Epica Premium Quality Bed Pad topping the best bed pads for elderly individuals or anyone with incontinence. See if you’ll agree with me; if not, other top-notch options are also available for you!

6 Of The Best Incontinence Pads This 2023

1. EPICA Premium Quality Bed Pad – Best Overall

Premium Quality Bed Pad, Quilted, Waterproof, and Washable, 34" x 52" The Best Underpad Sheet Protector for Children or Adults with Incontinence (2-Pack)

In terms of high-quality backed up by feedback, Epica’s Premium Quality Bed Pad undoubtedly steals the spotlight.

You’ll find its three-layer quilted fabric, made with a balance of soft cotton and polyester backed with vinyl, comfortable and considerate for sensitive skin.

The non-plastic material won’t make any crackling noise to assure you a good night’s rest.

Admiringly, the pad is extra long to assure full coverage of the mattress. Many restless sleepers find how well it stays in place, thanks to the non-slip backing.

It’s washable via machine; to save any doubts, buyers say it is easily cared for and washed. Some also find it being two-pack efficient for value, as having two saves you from the rush of cleaning one overnight.

As per absorbency, its inner core effectively locks in the moisture, keeping your skin dry as much as possible. However, it may still vary on the user’s condition; note that it’s thin and thus may not be fully leak-proof. Nevertheless, most find its absorbency excellent and sufficient.

Pros

  • Skin sensitive and comfortable material
  • With non-slip backing
  • Easy wash and dry
  • Generous size
  • Highly recommended quality

Cons

  • Thin for some buyers

Takeaway

Thanks to its balance of admirable qualities, Epica’s Premium Quality Bed Pad is one of the best bed pads for elderly individuals and for managing incontinence. The sensitivity of the material and non-slip backing further level up the efficiency of the pad.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE


2. Vive Washable Incontinence Pad – Best Value

Vive Washable Incontinence PadVive offers one of the incontinence bed mats for elderly individuals that's effective in absorption and durability.

People love its size, large enough to cover a wide surface area. It’s also efficient in the sense that it’s flexible for different bed sizes.

You’ll find the multi-layer softly blended fabric comfortable and preventing irritation. It’s nice that the material is silent to assure you a soundproof good night’s sleep.

Buyers also find the inner layer, made with ultra-dense composite material, effective in absorbing moisture for most accidents, but remember that they also have limits.

Although some find its non-slip layer ineffective, most agree that it’s worth the investment for its qualities. Many users claim that the reusable pad is easy to care for, but you should still observe proper washing.

For those with issues in online shopping, you won’t need to fret too much as Vive offers a 60-day guarantee.

Pros

  • Cost-effective
  • Comfortable fabric
  • Easy wash and dry
  • Generous size

Cons

  • Some experienced slipping of the pad

Takeaway

Vive’s Incontinence Pad, like most pads, has its limits but based on its features and feedback, it’s definitely worth the investment. Its qualities are more than sufficient for most buyers, and it might do the same for you.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE


3. Medline Extrasorbs Pad – Best Disposable Pad

Medline Extrasorbs Drypad UnderpadBuyers admire the Medline Extrasorbs Drypad Underpad for its quality that they barely find among other bed pads.

The pad's exceptional absorbency is the highlight of most feedback; its super-absorbent quilted polymer core will keep your skin dry and your place odor-free.

You’ll likewise find the inner core durable and comfortable to lie on; it won’t swell or bunch up when used.

In addition, the top sheet is soft, cloth-like, and air-permeable to keep you fresh. Let’s not forget the back sheet, tear-resistant and thoroughly prevents soak through.

Although the product doesn't mention a non-slip backing, people still find it stays in place when used.

The downside is that it’s rather expensive, especially for a one-use disposable pad.

Despite so, people continue to purchase mainly for its absorbency and durability.

Pros

  • Air-permeable cloth
  • Highly recommended absorbency
  • Stays in place
  • Top-notch durability

Cons

  • Relatively expensive for one-time use

Takeaway

If you’re looking for a disposable pad, Medline Extrasorbs Drypad Underpad is one of the reviewed high-quality bed pads for adults. It’s a bit pricey, but it’ll be worth the investment if it works for you. 

CHECK CURRENT PRICE


4. RMS Ultra-Soft 4-Layer Pad – Best Maintenance

RMS Ultra-Soft 4-Layer Bed PadPeople usually love the RMS Ultra-Soft 4-Layer Bed Pad for its durability and comfort. You might find it one of the easiest to wash and care for among most pads.

It’s machine washable at least 350 times, considering you wash and dry them in standard mode.

What’s even more striking is that it’s less sensitive than other pads, allowing you to apply mild bleach when necessary.

Many find its four layers of protection essential. The brushed polyester quilted top followed by the soft polyester fiberfill layer will make you comfortable. Furthermore, its absorbent inner layer receives high reviews from buyers.

Unfortunately, even with its final non-slip waterproof barrier, it may not be the best choice for restless sleepers.

Some would say that it tends not to stay in place, especially if you’re one to move a lot in your sleep.

On a positive note, the size makes up for the setback. Many find it a perfect fit not only for beds but for other furniture like chairs and recliners as well.

Pros

  • High durability for washing
  • Mild bleach may be applies
  • Good absorbency
  • Flexible size

Cons

  • Not slip-resistant for restless sleepers

Takeaway

If you’re looking for a pad that offers ease of maintenance, RMS Ultra-Soft 4-Layer Bed Pad goes beyond your standard expectation. As long as you’re not one to move a lot in your sleep, it’s one of the best options with flexible qualities.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE


5. KANECH Bed Pads - Best For Sensitive Skin

KANECH Bed PadsMost buyers loved the softness and consideration of KANECH’s Bed Pads for comfort and skin sensitivity with five layers of hypoallergenic materials.

The brushed microfiber surface gives you a silky feeling, best for a comfortable sleep.

You’ll like how the material is an environmentally friendly PU waterproof layer that’s slip-resistant; it also avoids PVCs and a foul rubber smell.

Many consumers find the pad impressively effective in terms of absorbency. It's been lab-tested to absorb up to ten cups. However, it's also best to consider possible urinary conditions if you still worry about experiencing leaks while using the pad.

As per washability, like most pads, instructions say to machine wash and dry at low temperature. Avoid bleaching, too. Most find them easy to wash, but I still recommend handling them with the utmost care as some encountered efficiency issues after several washes.

Pros

  • Made of hypoallergenic materials
  • No foul rubber smell
  • Lab-tested to absorb 10 cups
  • Slip-resistant

Cons

  • Requires careful washing to maintain efficiency

Takeaway

For sensitive skin or comfort like no other, I recommend KANECH’s Bed Pads For Incontinence. Its microfiber surface, efficient absorbency, and slip resistance make it a good option for the best bed pads for elderly individuals.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE


6. Sequoia Health Bed Pad – Best In Slip-Resistance

Soft Large Absorbent Waterproof Bed Pad with Tuckable Sides (36 x 60 Inch) - Washable 300x for XL Tuck in Underpad Incontinence Protection for Adult, Child, or Pet

Sequoia Health’s Bed Pad is a good option, especially for "wild sleepers."

The main feature of the bed pad is its tuckable sides made for even the most restless sleepers. Most of the buyers find it incredibly efficient at being intact.

The size is applicable for medium, large, or extra-large areas. You’ll also love that it’s washable up to 300 times, which is relatively long-lasting.

When considering absorbency, Sequoia Bed Pad can carry up to 8 cups of fluid with its triple-layer design. While most find it leak-proof, some dislike that it doesn’t fully disperse. Others also experienced the fluids staying on top of the mattress instead of being fully absorbed.

Try to test them out first to avoid any uneasiness.

Pros

  • With tuckable sides
  • Can carry up to 8 cups of fluid
  • Washable up to 300 times
  • Generous size

Cons

  • Liquids may not be fully absorbed or dispersed
  • Some felt sweaty on use of the product

Takeaway

If you’re one to move a lot in your sleep, Sequoia Health Waterproof Bed Pad’s tuckable side might be your best bet. Despite a few setbacks, it is still a highly recommendable product for average use.

CHECK CURRENT PRICE


Considerations For The Best Incontinence Pads

Bed with pillows and blanket

Absorbency

The best waterproof bed pad will always aim to absorb maximum fluid for you. Consider one that efficiently absorbs and disperses the fluid.

Some pads show how many cups of fluid they can hold.

A healthy human bladder can hold up to 2 cups of urine, but this varies for the elderly or those with urinary incontinence.

You may consider how long a person stays in bed and how much they drink before sleeping.

Material

The material of the fabric is necessary for comfort, especially for those with sensitive skin. I recommend checking breathable pads with qualities backed up by user feedback. Some people consider polyester, cotton, microfiber, or polyblend as comfortable materials.

Slip-resistance

Non-slip backing is also efficient to make sure the pad stays put overnight, especially with wild and restless sleepers that move a lot. Some bed pads come with tuck-in flaps under the mattress to help keep it in place.

Size

Size is a crucial factor that will depend on your need and preference. Be sure to consider:

  • User’s measurements
  • Mattress’s measurements
  • How much the user moves in sleep

Disposable vs. Washable

Bed pads are either disposable or washable. What's the advantage of using disposable bed pads over washable ones? You might be wondering about this for quite a while now. I had the same question back then.

The use of either disposable or washable pads has its pros and cons, but which is more suitable for your case?

Many people find disposable bed pads more convenient and generally more hygienic. It's best for those with limited schedules, but do mind that constantly buying pads is needed.

On the other hand, washable bed pads are better for the long run. One purchase of a pack of pads is enough, as long as you don't mind washing now and then.

Maintenance

Maintenance can depend on the previous factor, if it’s disposable or washable, and also on the pad’s durability.

You only need to observe proper disposal and replacement for our disposable pads.

Meanwhile, our best washable bed pads’ care depends on the durability of the item. Sometimes, you’ll see in product details the expected number of washes they can bear. Observe proper caring for maximum use.

Some recommend not using bleach to maintain durability; further wash in cold water and tumble dry low.

To help you in proper replacement, here’s a tutorial video of a medical professional changing an incontinence pad on a patient:

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of incontinence pad is best for someone who has sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin, choose pads made with hypoallergenic materials like cotton or microfiber. I also recommend the KANECH bed pads. Aside from having materials well suited for delicate skin, these pads are also highly absorbent, minimizing the risk for skin irritations.

How frequently do you have to change/replace the bed mat?

Most advise changing the bed pads around 4-6 times per day. It’s only approximate; change it whenever necessary or when it becomes too soaked.

Can I use double incontinence pads for one use?

Double-padding or placing two incontinence pads on top of each other is not advisable. It won’t lessen the leaks because of the back waterproof padding, and it may even lead to skin irritation and discomfort.

Instead, choose one efficient bed pad, or use other products, like incontinence pants and bedpans, alongside it for further leak protection.

Final Thoughts

Personally, our waterproof bed pad review shows the Epica Premium Quality Bed Pad to be the best among the options. Its features and reviews on absorbency, durability, and maintenance meet the standards to assure minimum leaks and a good night’s rest.

You can also check out Vive Washable Incontinence Pad. With its qualities, you could consider it the best waterproof bed pad for its value.

Before saying farewell, a friendly reminder from yours sincerely to observe proper hygiene when using bed mats.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top