Do Incontinence Pads Go Under The Sheet?
Incontinence is a common challenge that impacts millions of people worldwide, from seniors in nursing homes to patients recovering post-surgery.
As a result, choosing the right incontinence protection solutions is critical — not just for individuals, but also for care facilities, hospitals, and B2B distributors sourcing bulk hygiene products. One of the most frequently asked questions in this context is: Do incontinence pads go under or over the sheet?
This article answers the question from both a practical and scientific standpoint, while also guiding bulk buyers toward cost-effective, reusable solutions from trusted manufacturers like Jambopads.
🛏️ Types of Incontinence Pads: What’s What?
When it comes to bed protection for incontinence, the market primarily offers two solutions:
1. Underpads (aka Chux Pads or Bed Pads)
- Placed on top of the fitted sheet, directly under the user
- Designed to absorb urine leaks quickly
- Available in disposable and washable forms
- Common in hospitals, senior homes, and home care
2. Waterproof Mattress Protectors
- Typically placed under the fitted sheet
- Act as a non-absorbent barrier to protect the mattress
- Best used in combination with underpads
- Usually washable and long-lasting
✅ So, Where Should Incontinence Pads Go?
The correct answer:
Absorbent incontinence pads should go on top of the fitted sheet, directly beneath the person.
Here’s Why:
- Faster moisture absorption before leaks spread to bedding
- Reduced laundry effort (you just change the pad, not the whole bed)
- Skin health: Prevents irritation and bedsores by keeping skin drier
- Ideal for nighttime incontinence in elderly, pediatric, and post-surgery care
📊 Backed by Research
A 2022 clinical study published in the Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing found that placing absorbent pads on top of the bedding reduced the incidence of pressure ulcers by 34% compared to mattress protectors alone.
Similarly, a care facility trial in Germany demonstrated that using washable underpads instead of disposables cut monthly linen changes by 45%, saving both time and cost.
💬 Real-World Use Case
Client Testimonial – Hospital Buyer from Canada
“Switching to high-absorbency washable bed pads placed on top of sheets not only improved patient comfort but also cut our monthly disposable pad costs by over 60%.”
🧵 Washable vs. Disposable: What’s Better for B2B?
| Feature | Disposable Pads | Washable Pads |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per use | Higher (one-time use) | Lower (reuse 200–300+ times) |
| Environmental impact | High | Low (eco-friendly) |
| Comfort | Moderate | High (soft fabric layers) |
| Absorbency | Medium to high | High (multi-layer design) |
| Custom branding options | Limited | Available for OEM buyers |
🏭 Sourcing Washable Bed Pads in Bulk: Choose Jambopads
If you're a hospital supplier, elderly care operator, or medical product distributor, sourcing from a reliable washable bed pad manufacturer is key.
Why Jambopads?
- ✅ OEM & ODM capabilities — private labeling available
- ✅ Factory-direct pricing for bulk buyers
- ✅ 4-layer construction: soft top, absorbent core, waterproof bottom
- ✅ ISO 9001 & OEKO-TEX® certified
- ✅ Sizes for hospital beds, wheelchairs, homecare, and pets
- ✅ Global delivery — shipped to 30+ countries
🔗 Visit: www.jambopads.com
📩 Email: sales@jambopads.com
Whether you're reselling online, supplying a care facility, or building your own hygiene brand, Jambopads offers a sustainable, affordable, and proven solution.