Written by Nate Birt on Tue Jan 10 2023.
If you or a loved one are experiencing incontinence, adult briefs (also known as tab-style diapers) are an excellent solution to minimize accidents and keep furniture, bedding, and clothes dry.
If you're new to adult incontinence products, you likely have some questions. To make the process easier, we've put together a simple, step-by-step guide for:
Putting a brief on someone else
Putting a brief on yourself
With the right supplies and a little practice, you'll master this essential skill in no time.
Before you begin, gather these essential supplies to ensure a smooth and sanitary brief change:
A clean brief (diaper with tabs): There are two main types of adult incontinence products: tab-style diapers (briefs) and underwear-style diapers (pull-ups). This guide focuses specifically on tab-style briefs, which feature adjustable tabs on the sides for a customized and secure fit.
A clean towel or sheet and an underpad: Changing adult briefs can sometimes be messy. Before unfastening the tabs and removing the soiled brief, spread out a clean towel or sheet and cover it with an underpad. This extra layer of defense helps protect your clothing and bedding from any unexpected leaks.
Gloves: While not strictly required, wearing gloves can make cleanup easier and more hygienic. If you or your loved one have sensitive skin or allergies, ensure the gloves are latex-free.
Wet wipes: Thoroughly cleaning the skin between changes is crucial for preventing skin irritation and infections. Wet wipes help remove harmful bacteria while moisturizing and supporting skin health.
A trash bag: Adult briefs are disposable. Simply remove the soiled brief, place it in a trash bag, and dispose of it properly. It's that easy!
Changing an adult brief for another person is often easiest when they are lying down. Follow these steps for a smooth process:
Have your loved one lie on their side. If they have trouble staying in this position, place a pillow behind their back for support.
Take a new brief out of its packaging. Carefully guide your loved one's feet through the leg openings of the brief.
Caregiver tip: Placing a towel between your loved one's knees can make it easier to guide the brief into the proper position.
After pulling the brief up slightly, spread the back portion of the brief material over your loved one's buttocks.
Once the brief covers their buttocks, remove the pillow from behind them (if used) and gently roll them onto their back. At this point, you should see the adjustable tabs on both sides of the brief near their hips.
Bring the front panel of the brief up over your loved one's belly. Adjust the material on both sides to ensure the tabs align properly with the front panel.
For a secure and comfortable fit, work slowly and close each tab individually.
Peel off the fastening tabs on one side of the brief. Gently stretch the tabs across your loved one's hip and attach them horizontally to the front panel. Repeat these steps on the other side, adjusting the tabs until the brief feels snug but not too tight.
Putting a brief on someone else takes practice. If the brief appears bunched up, too loose, or you're concerned about adequate protection, take the time to make any necessary adjustments. Our Care Specialists are also available to walk you through the process if you need personalized guidance!
Pro tip: If your loved one's skin shows redness or swelling around the brief area, the brief might be too tight. Incontinence products should never restrict blood flow.
If you're putting on an adult brief independently, these steps will help you achieve a comfortable and secure fit:
Take a new brief out of its package and loosely attach the tabs on either side, creating a loop similar to regular underwear. Then, step into the leg openings and pull the brief up to your waist.
Gently stretch the tab on one side of the brief over your hip and attach it to the front panel. Repeat this process with the tab on the other side.
After fastening the tabs, stand up and take a few steps. This helps the brief settle into place. Center the brief, smooth out any wrinkles, and refasten the tabs as needed until the brief feels snug but not uncomfortably tight.
Incontinence products like adult briefs are designed to be affordable and easy to use, but it's natural to have questions if you're new to them.
Our friendly Care Specialists are here to answer your inquiries and provide personalized recommendations that align with your needs. Reach out anytime by calling (800) 696-CARE or sending an email to support@carewell.com.
Learning how to change an adult diaper with tabs might seem daunting, especially if it's your first time. Whether your loved one is transitioning home from a long-term care facility, your teenager needs adult-sized incontinence products, or they're experiencing heavy incontinence unexpectedly, you're not alone. Our Caregiving Specialists have created this comprehensive guide to help you master the process of changing an adult diaper, ensuring comfort, hygiene, and confidence for both you and your loved one.
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Managing Leaks: Expert Tips for Adult Diapers and Pull-Ups
Experiencing a leak from an adult diaper or pull-up can be incredibly frustrating and disruptive. Whether it's during a quiet evening at home or an outing with friends, incontinence leaks can quickly derail your plans and cause discomfort. Understanding why leaks happen and how to prevent them is crucial for maintaining comfort, confidence, and uninterrupted daily life when managing adult incontinence.
Nate Birt is a healthcare writer with a journalism degree from University of Missouri. He lives with his wife and their four children on a small farm in Missouri.
