Best Adult Diapers of 2022: Reviewed by Care Specialists.
There are hundreds of products for adult incontinence, but what are the best adult diapers? You're probably asking this question if you care for someone with urinary incontinence or bowel incontinence.
Before you make a purchase, it’s important to have a basic understanding of these products. The more you know about the different types, who they're for, their respective capabilities, and sizing the easier it is to make an informed decision.
We recently updated our list of the best adult diapers for 2022. Keep reading for a complete breakdown, including what factors to consider and 10 of our best sellers.
What are the Different Types of Adult Diapers?
Diapers fall into three main categories: Pull-ups, Reusable Diapers, and briefs.
Pull-ups
Pull-ups are thin, made of cloth-like materials, and fit discreetly under a dress or pants. They're particularly beneficial for people who are still relatively independent.
Consider pull-up diapers for your loved one if:
They’re only mildly or moderately incontinent.
They’re able to make it to the bathroom sometimes.
They’re able to pull their pants up and down.
Reusable Diapers
Reusable diapers are made from cloths of various absorbencies. They can be safely washed and dried with other clothing and then worn again.
Consider reusable diapers for your loved one if:
They have sensitive skin
Their voids are light.
They’re still relatively mobile and independent.
Adult briefs
Briefs fit snugly around the abdomen, crotch, and rear. They have flexible tabs on either side, allowing for a comfortable fit. They're very absorbent, great at preventing overflow and contain a thick core that wicks away moisture and odors.
Consider briefs for your loved one if:
They need your help with changing.
They experience heavy voids and/or frequent accidents.
They’re a wheelchair user or confined to bed.
Learn More: Adult Pull-Ups vs Diapers
Which Factors Should I Consider When Buying Diapers?
To get the best possible diaper for your care recipient's needs, it’s important to do a little bit of research. Because online product listings can be confusing, we recommend focusing on six factors –– size, backing material, absorbency, odor elimination, comfort, and gender specificity.
Related Blog: Best Adult Diaper Brands - Reviewed!
Size
It’s critical that the diapers you use fit your loved one’s body. A diaper that’s too small or too large increases the risk of leaks, overflow accidents, rashes, and infection.
This video explains how to determine the right fit for an adult diaper:
Pro tip: Every diaper manufacturer has different sizing guidelines. Make sure to compare your measurements with the sizing information provided on the product packaging.
Backing material
There are two types of backing materials to choose from –– cloth-backed and plastic-backed.
Cloth-backed diapers are made from fabric-like materials and allow for plenty of airflow. These features lower the risk of odors and ensure a comfortable wearing experience.
Plastic-backed diapers are more absorbent, but they don't allow for airflow. As a result, these diapers are more likely to cause a rash or an infection.
Absorbency
The average adult bladder holds approximately 16 fluid ounces. When considering the absorbency of a product, ask the following questions:
When will the diapers be worn? People tend to urinate more heavily at night.
What type of voids need to be addressed? Urinary, fecal, or both? Make sure the product you choose offers the right protection.
Does your loved one have any allergies? Certain materials can cause the skin to develop a rash.
Super absorbent adult diapers are best. When urine or fecal matter are able to pool, it’s not only uncomfortable but dangerous.
Odor elimination
The bacteria in urine and fecal matter emits odors and harmful vapors. Together, these factors increase the risk of urinary tract infections and skin problems. Try to find a diaper that offers bacteria-neutralizing features. Keywords to look for include “moisture-wicking” or “odor locked-in.”
Comfort
Diapers and pull-ups are made from various materials. You may need to try several out to determine the type that feels best on your care recipient's skin.
Gender specificity
Products vary in terms of gender specificity. Some are designed for men, some are designed for women, and others are gender-neutral. If you're unsure about which gender a specific product is designed for, read the label and description.
Designs vary depending on the brand, but as a general rule, products for women have extra layers of absorbent material in the bottom of the diaper or pull-up. Whereas products for men have extra layers of absorbent material in the front near the crotch. Gender-neutral products feature absorbent materials in both of these areas.
Is There Anything Else I Should Know About Adult Diapers?
Shopping for diapers can be overwhelming. There are so many brands, styles, and key features to choose from that making the right decision can seem like an impossible task. If this is your first time buying diapers, prepare for some trial and error. Until your loved one tries several products on, you won’t know what fits best, is most comfortable, or meets their needs.
If you want to save time, consider asking friends or family members for recommendations. You can also browse our product listings to read the associated FAQs, reviews, and customer comments.
What are the 10 Best Adult Diapers?
We carry a variety of products for adult incontinence on the Carewell website. Below, we’ve listed our top 10 recommended adult diapers:
TENA Overnight Super Protective Incontinence, Overnight Absorbency
Tranquility ATN All-Through-The-Night Disposable Briefs with Tabs, Maximum
Tranquility Air-Plus Bariatric Disposable Briefs with Tabs, Maximum
01 Abena Abri-Flex Pull-up
Price: $24.99
This premium gender-neutral pull-ups from Abena is a customer favorite. The product features tear-away seams, a built-in odor guard system, and a comfortable cloth backing.
Key Benefits & Features:
AirPlus performance for proper airflow
Top-dry acquisition layer to keep the skin dry
Offers maximum protection
Ideal for people with mobility or balance issues
Gender-neutral
02 Prevail® Pull-Up Underwear, Maximum
Price: $14.99 - $52.99
These gender-neutral pull-ups from Prevail look and feel like normal briefs. The only real difference is that they offer heavy absorbency, allowing for protection against mild or moderate voids. Each pair contains proprietary QUICK WICK with MaxSoft technology that pulls moisture away from the skin, keeping your loved one comfortable and dry.
Key Benefits & Features:
Pull-ups contain MaxSorb technology that quickly turns liquid into a gel
Offers a tight but comfortable fit around the waist and legs
Maximum absorbency
Soft
Easy to size
Gender-neutral
03 McKesson Ultra Pull-Up Underwear, Heavy
Price: $14.99 - $47.99
McKesson ultra pull-ups are incredibly comfortable and look just like regular underwear. The material is stretchy, allowing for a full range of motion. These pull-ups fit discreetly under clothing and make no noise. Their dual-layer core draws moisture away from the skin and locks it away, keeping your senior clean and dry.
Key Benefits & Features:
Built-in odor guards that reduce the pH of urine
Comfort stretch waist for a perfect fit
Capable of holding large voids
No risk of overflow
Gender-neutral
04 TENA ProSkin Overnight Super Protective Incontinence Underwear
Price: $21.49 - $69.99
This disposable garment from TENA offers complete protection for both urine and fecal voids. The material is thin and comfortable and features ConfioAir® technology which helps balance and maintain the skin’s natural moisture. Each pair has a wide back for complete protection, no matter your favorite sleep position.
Key Benefits & Features:
Unique design that allows for an ergonomic fit
Each diaper has a pad at the back for increased absorbency and protection
Secure barrier system that prevents overflow
Free of allergens like rubber and latex
Gender-neutral
05 McKesson Ultra Briefs Heavy Absorbency
Price: $11.99 - $44.99
If your loved one experiences heavy voids, consider McKesson ultra briefs. These diapers are made from premium materials that prevent moisture from pooling and neutralize the pH in urine. Each diaper has a number of adjustable tabs, allowing for the perfect fit.
Key Benefits & Features:
Breathable cloth-like backing
Leg gathers
Refastenable tabs for easy adjustments
Each diaper has a color guard that appears when wet
Gender-neutral
06 Prevail® Daily Pull-Up Underwear for Women
Price: $17.49 - $55.49
These diapers are specifically designed for women. They look and feel like traditional briefs but contain QUICK WICK Maxsoft technology that immediately lifts away moisture. Because women need extra protection, these diapers hold absorbent beads in specific areas, preventing overflow.
Key Benefits & Features:
Great for women who experience mild or moderate voids
Each diaper has an AirMax layer designed to trap moisture
Each diaper has a back indicator, making application easy
Made from cotton-enhanced dri-fit fabric
Gender-specific (Designed for women)
07 Prevail® Bariatric Briefs with Tabs, Ultimate
Price: $16.49 - $69.99
Bariatric briefs are designed for larger individuals. Prevail’s are unisex style and offer protection from both types of incontinence. Each diaper is made from a comfortable, cloth-like material that absorbs moisture and reduces heat. They have reusable tabs, allowing you to easily adjust the fit to your loved one’s needs.
Key Benefits & Features:
Heavy absorbency
Free of allergens, including latex and rubber
Omni-odor guard stops smells in their tracks
Ventilated fabric around the entire waist
Gender-neutral
08 Tranquility® All-Through-The-Night Disposable Briefs with Tabs, Maximum
Price: $12.99 - $94.49
Here at Carewell, we’re big fans of Tranquility and highly recommend their products. These All-Through-The-Night (ATN) briefs offer a full eight hours of protection, so your senior can get a restful, rejuvenating sleep.
Key Benefits & Features:
A secure fit that provides peace-of-mind
Refastenable tabs for easy adjustments
Peach mat core that keeps moisture away from the skin
Leg guards to prevent overflow
Gender-neutral
09 Tranquility Air-Plus Bariatric Disposable Briefs with Tabs, Maximum
Price: $27.99 - $84.49
These disposable diapers are designed for plus-sized individuals (4X-Large). They’re heavy-duty, have a cloth-backing, and can hold urine or stool. In addition, their unique high-rise fit allows for extra protection whether you’re sitting or lying down.
Key Benefits & Features:
Looks and feels like a traditional undergarment
Peach mat core locks in moisture, preventing irritation
Refastenable tabs for an ideal fit
Gender-neutral
10 Cardinal Sure Care Protective Pull-Up Underwear, Plus
Price: $8.99 - $74.99
Cardinal Sure Care absorbent adult diapers offer four different levels of absorbency—extra, plus, ultra, and super. They feature a cloth-like top sheet but are capable of protecting your loved one from heavy voids. Thanks to their super-absorbent core, it’s easy to quickly lock away fluids.
Key Benefits & Features:
Leg gathers to prevent leaks or an overflow
Tear-away side panels for easy removal
Odor protection
Back indicators for easy application
Gender-neutral
BONUS: Tranquility® Premium Overnight Pull-Up Underwear
Price: $20.99 - $66.99
This premium overnight pull-up underwear from Tranquility is one of our top sellers. The product comes in various sizes, from small to extra-large, and features odor-eliminating technology. Each pull-up has an absorbent peach mat core, capable of holding high-volume urine and bowel voids.
Key Benefits & Features:
Tear-away sides for easy removal
A cloth-back that’s breathable, comfortable, and silent
Odor control technology that neutralizes urine
Soft, full-rise waist panel for a comfortable fit
Best Adult Diapers Comparison Table
| Brand | Style | Absorption | Leg Style | Sizes | Odor Control | Incontinence Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tranquility® Premium | Pull-up | Heavy absorbency | Inner leg guards | 17-80″ | Peach mat core* | Urine and bowel |
| Prevail® Maximum | Pull-up | Heavy absorbency | Elastic gathers | 34-80″ | MaxSoft Technology | Urine |
| McKesson Heavy | Pull-up | Heavy absorbency | Elastic gathers | 25-80″ | Dual-layer core | Urine and bowel |
| TENA Overnight™ | Pull-up | Overnight absorbency | Inner leg cuffs | 34-66″ | Confio Air® | Urine and bowel |
| McKesson Ultra Briefs Heavy | Tab closure | Heavy absorbency | Elastic gathers | 22-69″ | Dual Core technology | Urine and bowel |
| Prevail® Daily for Women | Pull-up | Heavy absorbency | Elastic gathers | 28-80″ | MaxSoft Technology | Urine |
| Prevail® Bariatric Ultimate | Tab closure | Heavy absorbency | Elastic gathers | 62-100″ | Omni-odor guard | Urine and bowel |
| Tranquility® All-Through-the-Night | Tab closure | Heavy absorbency | Inner leg cuffs | 18-64″ | Peach mat core* | Urine and bowelUrine and bowel |
| Tranquility Air-Plus Bariatric Maximum | Tab closure | Heavy absorbency | Inner leg cuffs | 70-106″ | Peach mat core* | Urine and bowel |
| Cardinal Sure Care Plus | Pull-up | Heavy absorbency | Elastic gathers | 34-80″ | Super-absorbent core | Urine and bowel |
*Peach Mat Guarantee® The Peach Mat construction uses a proprietary composite structure of tissues, superabsorbent polymers, cellulose, and liquid dispersing materials. The peach-colored core assures the product is the Tranquility brand.
Need help choosing an adult diaper? See our Adult Diaper Guide
What if I still have questions about adult diapers?
Choosing the right adult diaper isn’t easy. If you’re still unsure what type of adult diaper will most benefit you or your loved one, reach out to our friendly Care Team. You can contact them via phone at (855) 855-1666 or you can send an email to support@carewell.com
Read Next: Incontinence After a Stroke
Did you find this article helpful? Share it, print it or have it mailed to you!
Other Articles You May Like
How to Choose the Right Adult Diaper Size
Just like with any item of clothing, knowing how to choose the right adult diaper size is vital to ensure comfort and effectiveness. We want to make sure you get the information you need, so here’s a summary of what this guide will cover.
Read More >
Top 10 Best Wipes, Washcloths, & Moist Towelettes for Incontinence Care 2023 - Carewell
Finding the right cleansing wipes is a key part of comfortably managing incontinence. We’ve put together our roundup of top-rated wipes, washcloths, and towelettes for incontinence care to help you select the best product for your needs.
Medically Reviewed by Kiera Powell, R.N.
Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.
Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.