Disposable Adult Nappies vs Waterproof Pants: Which Should You Choose

If you’re reading this article, it’s likely that at some point you’ve found yourself looking at disposable adult nappies and washable pants online and thinking “Which one is right for me?” 
This is normal, especially if you’re new to incontinence and urinary leakage. There are so many products on the market, all of them useful in their own ways. But, they’re also geared toward different people experiencing different levels of leakage. 

So, to help you figure out which one’s right for you, we’ll be going over what adult nappies & waterproof pants are, who they’re for, and the benefits of each. From there, you should be in a better position to make an informed choice. 

Disposable nappies are always a convenient option, which many people prefer. When you use disposable adult nappies, you can simply throw them away when you no longer need them.

This is definitely a good place to start. They’re sometimes referred to as adult diapers or slips. They’re super durable and as far as wearable incontinence products go, they offer maximum absorbency as well as coverage. Their enclosed design means they offer the best security against leakage. Due to the higher absorbency levels, they’re a bit more heavy-duty than something like disposable pants. If you’re experiencing big leaks, you’ll probably want big protection. 

Who are they for?

Adult nappies are more for people who aren’t really looking for discretion. There are plenty of discreet options with pads and pants, but as I said before, the security of disposable nappies makes them a heavy-duty option. If you’re experiencing heavy incontinence or have trouble standing or walking, adult nappies might be for you. They’re also a great choice if you’re experiencing dementia or other mental health-related difficulties; the nappies' superior protection and absorbency can make your life less complicated. 

Benefits of wearing adult nappies

Fantastic absorbency: Adult nappies excel in terms of absorbency, making them ideal for heavy incontinence or overnight use. High-capacity cores like Vivactive’s Triple Layer Lock™ system quickly absorbs and locks away moisture, keeping you fresh and dry. 

Secure fit: They typically feature adjustable tabs to ensure a snug and secure experience. A customisable fit from the tabs allows for maximum leakage control, giving you peace of mind while you go about your day.

Leak Protection: Adult diapers are great for keeping leaks at bay. Special design features like leg cuffs allow them to fit closely to the shape of your body. They’re designed to keep your skin free from both urine leaks and faecal matter, providing comprehensive protection (that said, you should always dispose of nappies soiled with faecal matter as soon as you can. Prolonged use of nappies soiled by faecal matter will result in damage to the skin).

Waterproof pants work slightly differently from most conventional incontinence items. They’re not actually designed to absorb urine the same way adult nappies are, they’re actually meant to be worn on top of other incontinence aids. So, for example, if you’re wearing a pad, disposable pant or nappy, you might want an extra layer of protection by wearing these on top. 

Who are they for?

If you’re experiencing heavy incontinence and finding yourself leaking through the items you’re already using, then you might need this extra layer of protection. Just like nappies, they’re not really built for discretion, they’re definitely all about practicality. 

Waterproof pants could be your preferred option if you're looking for something reusable. Reusable incontinence products offer convenience if you don't want to have to keep buying new ones. One of the main benefits of washable waterproof pants is that you can just wash them and use them again.
Benefits of wearing Waterproof Pants

Additional Security

Adding Waterproof Pants to your incontinence repertoire gives you an extra layer of security for managing those big leaks. Peace of mind can be really important when it comes to managing incontinence. The last thing you want to add to your list of worries is anxiety. Vivactive’s Waterproof Plastic Pants are made from a soft PVC, featuring a secure double weld for long-lasting protection against leaks. The seal around the waist and leg has been stitched to ensure a snug fit. The soft material ensures they make low noise levels - no more loud rustling noises when you move around. 

Machine washable 

Unlike disposable incontinence items, Waterproof Pants like the Waterproof Plastic Pant from Vivactive are machine washable. Being able to easily remove and clean them makes them a really convenient option. 

When you're weighing up disposable nappies vs waterproof pants, you'll no doubt find Vivactive products to be the best-value option. We have both disposable nappies and waterproof plastic pants to meet your needs. Our products provide the security and protection you need to use incontinence products confidently, whether you choose disposable or reusable options. Explore our range today and even save an extra 10% on your order with subscriptions.