Reusable Underpads

What to Know About Reusable Bed Pads

Reusable underpads, also called “chux” or reusable bed pads, are large rectangular pads used to protect surfaces of all kinds from incontinence. They have a soft top sheet, a synthetic quilted inside that absorbs moisture, and a woven back sheet to help prevent slippage.

When incontinence issues are a struggle for your loved one, reusable underpads help keep surfaces clean and dry, as well as helping to reduce odors.

Who are Reusable Underpads for?

Reusable chux are a great solution:

• If you are caring for a loved one that is leaking through pull-ups or adult diapers with tabs and you need an additional layer of protection
• During diaper changes, as reusable underpads can help to catch urine and bowel voids
• To provide covering over a chair, wheelchair, or passenger seat of the car to protect surfaces against leakage.
• For added overnight incontinence protection when placed under the fitted sheet in your loved one’s bed.
• For dressing a wound. Reusable underpads can also clean up messes caused by wound drainage. Placed under the wound, these underpads catch any drainage or blood and prevent it from spreading.
• For changing an enteral feeding tube or ostomy bag. Reusable underpads help with enteral feeding tube changes by providing a layer of protection between the tube and your loved one’s skin.
• As an environmental and eco-friendly alternative to disposable underpads. Since they’re reusable, just toss them in the washing machine when you’re finished and use them again and again!

FAQ's:

Can these pads be used on a memory foam mattress?

Yes. These reusable underpads can be placed on a wheelchair, couch, bed, car seat, or anywhere in between to protect against moisture.

What’s the difference between a disposable underpad and a reusable underpad?

Disposable underpads and reusable underpads are both excellent choices for those looking to protect their furniture from incontinence and other moisture. The biggest difference between these two products is that disposable underpads are single-use, while reusable can be washed and used again and again. Reusable underpads tend to be less absorbent than disposable underpads because the core is not made with polymers.

How do I wash a reusable underpad?

Once the underpad is used, you’ll want to make sure you wash it thoroughly, following the steps below:

1. Machine wash the underpad alone, or with other reusable underpads (never with other clothes).
2. Ensure the washing machine is only at 85% capacity or less when washing bed pads.
3. Avoid fabric softeners as these can compromise absorbency.
4. Use your dryers normal setting. The heavier the underpad, the longer the drying time. For these absorbent pads, expect them to take a little longer than typical clothing to dry.
5. Remove the underpad from the dryer within five minutes of when the cycle is complete.

What sizes do underpads come in?

Reusable underpads come in various sizes, ranging from 18 x 24 inches all the way up to 36 x 72 inches - the size of a twin-sized bed! Make sure you choose a size that matches both the person that needs protection against incontinence and the furniture the pad is used on. Larger furniture (like beds) will require larger pads, while smaller furniture (like wheelchairs) can get away with smaller pads.

Should I use a disposable underpad or reusable underpad?

Disposable underpads are best for those who:

• Need moderate to heavy absorbency.
• Are looking to avoid messes.
• Need support repositioning loved ones.

Reusable underpads are best for those:

• Who need only light absorbency and don’t mind doing extra laundry.
• Looking for an environmentally-friendly option.
• Looking for an economical-friendly option, since you only need to buy one rather than multiple packs.

Related Articles:

Disposable vs Reusable Underpads Protective Bedding: Underpads vs Mattress Protectors vs Protective Sheets Carewell's Essential Checklist for Bowel Incontinence Care 8 Diet Tips to Help Manage an Overactive Bladder Checklist for Traveling with Urinary Incontinence