The Best Disposable Underpads
Disposable underpads are one of the most versatile caregiving tools. The large, rectangular sheets cover a wide surface area, protecting furniture and bedding from pureed meals, incontinence, and other bodily fluids.
If you’ve never used underpads before, it can be challenging to find the best product for your needs. To make things easier, we’ve drafted this round-up of the best disposable underpads. Below, we discuss seven of our most popular underpads and highlight some of their key benefits and features.
What are disposable underpads?
Underpads are disposable sheets with waterproof backing and an absorbent core. They shield furniture and bedding from bodily fluids, incontinence, or liquid nutrition.
Underpads aren’t a substitute for diapers or pull-ups, but they can supplement these incontinence products by increasing their absorbency.
Are disposable underpads only for incontinence?
No. Disposable underpads are multifaceted. Caregivers regularly use them when:
Tending to ostomy pouches and bags
Repositioning bedbound loved ones who need regular movement to prevent bedsores
Caring for diabetic ulcers and other slow-healing wounds
Protecting bedding and furniture from urine and bowel voids
Disposable underpads make cleaning up after tube feeding easier. Save yourself the extra laundry and throw the underpad away after mealtime.
How We Chose the Products on This List
The products featured in this list of the best disposable underpads are a mix of our “highest-rated” and “best-selling” items.
Under each entry, we’ve highlighted real customer or user feedback with the header: Hear it from a Caregiver/User.
The Best Disposable Underpads
1) Prevail Underpad 30 x 36 Inches, Heavy
Price: $19.54 - $61.64
These underpads are 30” x 36” and have a moisture-proof barrier with built-in Maxorb gel technology. The underpads’ super absorbent rating provides up to 12 hours of incontinence protection and the cloth-like top sheet is soft on the skin.
Key Benefits & Features:
Heavy absorbency
Extra strong construction that resists tearing (even when wet)
Perfect for changing ostomy bags, wound care procedures, or incontinence protection
Hear it from a Caregiver: “I have been purchasing this item for quite some time and they are very good. Holds moisture well, size-wise, they cover a large area to ensure accidents don't happen as often and the quality is great for my needs. These are especially good for heavier individuals.” - Cassandra R.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “They are waterproof. I don’t have to change the sheets every day and my furniture stays clean and dry.” - Kathryn M.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “This item has made rotating my husband in bed easier. The plastic sides help position his body as I turn his body. Also aids in mishaps at night.” - Diana C.
2) McKesson Underpads, Ultra
Price: $16.99 - $47.00
These McKesson underpads have a super absorbent core that neutralizes the pH in urine, keeping users fresh and odor-free. The fluff/polymer core and soft, heat-sealed edges are gentle and non-irritating on the skin.
Key Benefits & Features:
Heavy absorbency protects surfaces from any type of moisture
Poly-backing captures all moisture, so you never had to worry about leaks or messes
Perfect for tending to wounds, changing enteral feeding tubs, or changing ostomy bags
Three different sizes –– 30” x 30”; 30” x 36”; and 36” x 36”
Hear it from a Caregiver: “Excellent moisture protection and helps to keep the bed dry and clean throughout the night.” - Susan C.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “I have been buying this product for my mom, 80 years old with dementia. With [this brand] we just need to use one per night which is very convenient and saves money. Some other relatives used cheaper options but needed two pads to do the job. Thank you, Mckesson!” – Juan M.
Hear it from a User: “Great coverage and protection! I have a wheelchair, transport, and recliner chairs as well as other seating needs thus the appreciation of the weight, size, and dimensions.” - Shirley A.
3) Simplicity Basic Underpad
Price: $8.99 - $32.76
Cardinal Health’s line of Simplicity underpads is one of our most reliable sellers. The spun-bond woven top sheet quickly absorbs and locks in moisture, protecting furniture and bedding from fluids and stains.
Pro tip: The affordability and absorbency of these underpads make them ideal for pet parents. Many of our customers use these underpads for potty training puppies and dogs with incontinence.
Key Benefits & Features:
Maximum protection for heavy bowel incontinence
Breathable side panels and confidence cuff protection to prevent leakage
Super absorbent core draws liquid away from the skin
Hear it from a Caregiver: “These are nearly the same thing our dialysis center gives us, but way more affordable than charging our insurance. Good quality. Thanks, Carewell!” - Kacey H.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “Very good quality & absorbent. The size is perfect!” - Karen S.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “Very absorbing [sic], bigger than the typical high dollar pads, the quality is A-okay, no soaking through and non-irritating as well!! The price and quantity for the price is a definite plus. So, so glad we came across these!! Thank you!!” - Renee W.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “These are excellent. Just the right size, very soft, and very absorbent..and they always get here in record time! Packed very nice[ly]. Thank you. Lifetime customer here.” - Karen P.
4) Cardinal Wings Quilted Premium Comfort Underpad, Heavy
Price: $12.34 - $89.63
Cardinal Wings’ quilted premium underpads have an extra absorbent core and a silk–soft top sheet designed for maximum comfort.
Caregivers tell us these underpads are ideal for use on low-air-loss mattresses. These underpads allow maximum breathability, ensuring your loved one’s skin stays healthy and dry.
Key Benefits & Features:
The underpads have built-in odor guards, keeping rooms smelling fresh
Capable of supporting larger individuals weighing up to 300 lbs.
Ideal for repositioning loved ones or patients, changing enteral feeding tubes, tending to wounds, or supplementing incontinence products
Hear it from a Caregiver: “They work great. My mom stays dry and the size is perfect.” - Patricia M.
Hear it from a User: “Took away my stress of having accidents.” - Chery S.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “Superior quality keeps beds and other sitting surfaces stain-free. Also catches any and all liquids.” - Debbie P.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “The Premium Cardinal Wings are strong and durable. No leakage and they last a long time. Excellent service and very fast shipment. I received them in two days and I highly recommend them.” - Carolyn J.
5) Medline Ultrasorbs Advanced Premium Underpads
Price: $11.08 - $103.76
Medline Premium underpads are used in hospitals and assisted-living facilities all over the United States. Their medical-grade design and superabsorbent core lock in moisture within seconds, keeping the pad dry to the touch.
The back sheet is made with AquaShield film, an incredibly tough material that doesn’t rip or tear when wet.
Key Benefits & Features:
Heavy absorbency
Air permeable - designed for use with low air loss mattresses
Material lies flat, even when wet. Doesn’t bunch up, swell, or disintegrate
Hear it from a user: “The pads are under me every night protecting the mattress with a success rate of 100%. The pads may get wet but not the bed.” - Scott D.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “This was the only company that carried the product we wanted. The same underpads that were used at the hospital. The store brands were of poor quality. In addition, my mom and I were impressed by the 2-day shipping.” - Eugenia W.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “First used these when mom was in [the] hospital. They are great. She often wets through her padded underwear and the pad she has on. Never has anything gone through the Medline bed pads.” - Rita B.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “We have been using this product for quite some time now. We are very pleased with this product. It helps very much.” - Kittie B.
6) Attends Supersorb Maximum Underpads
Price: $16.02 - $114.19
These Supersorb Maximum underpads are incredibly popular in professional medical settings, such as hospitals and assisted living facilities.
Considered a trailblazer in the industry, Attends was one of the first manufacturers to include Dry Lock technology in their disposable underpads. It uses a super absorbent pulp-filled core to prevent wetness and provide peace of mind.
Key Benefits & Features:
30” x 36”
Breathable backing material prevents odors and keeps the skin comfortable and dry
The air-permeable design makes them ideal for people with low air-loss mattresses
Strong and supportive, even when wet. Perfect for repositioning loved ones or clients who are bed bound
Hear it from a Caregiver: “Very absorbent and good quality. It doesn’t tear easily and first saw it used in a hospital. Won’t switch to any other underpads after this.” - Lynette F.
Hear it from a User: “Very happy I found this product. Underpad does its job, stays in place, and feels cooler against your skin. Highly recommend!” - Lynn G.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “A great price performer! They aren’t cheap, but they provide an environment where you know the situation is under control. Been using them for my spouse for 10 years!” - Robert J.
7) Prevail Underpads, Fluff
Price: $13.48 - $40.13
Need some extra protection for incontinence or wound care procedures? Consider Prevail Underpads, Fluff!
These soft underpads with a fluffy core and waterproof backing are smaller than some of the other protective pads on this list (23” x 36”). Even so, caregivers tell us they can withstand heavy leakage, making them ideal for overnight use.
Key Benefits & Features:
Not made with rubber or latex (ideal for people with sensitive skin)
Moisture-proof backing that locks-in wetness
Comfortable, sturdy, and reliable
Hear it from a Caregiver: “Strong and absorbent, while offering great protection!” - Sakeenah W.
Hear it from a User: They are as they claimed to be –– absorbent and fluffy. Would recommend to family and friends.” - Venera E.
Hear it from a Caregiver: “These are great. We needed a pad that would cover a sizable area and were for one time use. These filled the bill for that use. The amount for the price was a surprise. I have paid twice more and got only half the size. This will be a definite reorder for us.” - Marlene B.
Compare Our Products
How to Choose a Disposable Underpad
How to Choose a Disposable UnderpadBefore buying disposable underpads, it’s vital to consider the following factors:
Strength - Many caregivers use disposable underpads to help move bedbound loved ones. If you regularly reposition your loved one to prevent pressure ulcers, make sure to select an underpad that can hold at least 300 lbs. Many of the underpads we carry are designed for this very purpose.
Use - What do you need underpads for? Wound care, incontinence, ostomy bag changes, or something entirely different? The answer to this question can help guide your decision.
Absorbency - How much liquid do you need to absorb? Some underpads protect against urine; others protect against urine and bowel voids.
Skin sensitivity - Does your loved one have sensitive skin? If so, will their skin be in direct contact with the underpads? Several types of disposable underpads are hypoallergenic and skin-friendly.
Commonly Asked Questions
1) Are disposable underpads reusable?
No. All of the disposable underpads on this list are meant for single use only. As soon as the underpad comes into contact with food, incontinence, or other bodily fluids, throw it away.
Insider tip: Some manufacturers DO sell reusable underpads. But if an underpad is reusable, it will say so in the product description.
2) Are disposable underpads soft?
Yes. All of the disposable underpads on this list have a soft cloth-like top sheet and an absorbent core. The backing sheet is made from a slick polyester that locks in moisture, preventing incontinence from making contact with clothing and furniture.
3) How do I hold a disposable underpad in place?
Most disposable underpads have adhesive strips attached to the bottom and sides. After removing a new underpad from the package, spread it out on your bedding or furniture. Then, undo and attach the adhesive strips to the furniture or mattress. Underpads are made of materials that won’t bunch, swell, or tear even when wet.
Takeaways
Disposable underpads can make your caregiving routine and cleanups that much easier. Whether you need additional incontinence support for a loved one or simply want to prevent messes when changing your ostomy bag, underpads are an effective and affordable solution.
Need Help?
If you’ve never bought underpads before, making the right decision can be tough. Our Care Specialists know about all of the products we carry and can make personalized recommendations based on your situation and needs.
Want help? Call (855) 855-1666 or send an email to support@carewell.com. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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Read More >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.