Fall Prevention at Home: 12 Safety Tips for Elderly Relatives
Most falls happen at home and most are preventable. These 12 simple changes make a big difference to the safety and independence of older relatives.
Read articleA mattress is expensive to replace and difficult to clean. Bed pads for incontinence — also called underpads or bed mats — are the simplest way to keep beds, sofas and wheelchairs dry and hygienic. They also make life much easier for caregivers.
Key takeaways
- Bed pads protect mattresses, sofas, wheelchairs and car seats.
- Place pads under the hips, absorbent side up, with no creases.
- Use bed pads with — not instead of — adult diapers for heavy incontinence.
- Packs of 20 are usually better value than packs of 10.
What is a bed pad?
A bed pad is a flat, absorbent sheet with a soft top layer, an absorbent core and a waterproof backing. It is placed on top of the bed sheet, under the hips, to catch any leaks.
When to use bed pads
- As extra protection overnight alongside an adult diaper
- For bedridden patients during diaper changes and bed baths
- After surgery or childbirth
- On wheelchairs, car seats and sofas
- For children during potty training or bedwetting
Disposable vs reusable
| Disposable | Reusable (washable) | |
|---|---|---|
| Hygiene | Excellent — fresh pad each time | Good if washed properly |
| Convenience | Use and throw away | Needs washing and drying |
| Cost | Ongoing | Higher upfront |
| Best for | Heavy incontinence, home care | Light, occasional use |
Choosing the right size
- 60 × 90 cm / 80 × 90 cm: standard size for single beds and chairs.
- 180 × 90 cm: large pads that cover more of the bed — ideal for restless sleepers.
Popular choices include TENA Bed, Adfit Bedmats and Palmjoy Bedmats.
How to place a bed pad correctly
- Lay the pad with the soft, absorbent side facing up.
- Position it under the hips and lower back, not under the head.
- Smooth out any creases — wrinkles can cause pressure marks.
- When changing, roll the used pad inwards to contain moisture.
Bed pad tips from caregivers
- Use a pad during every diaper change to protect the sheet.
- Keep a stack next to the bed for quick night-time changes.
- Never use a bed pad instead of a diaper for someone with heavy incontinence — use both.
What makes a good bed pad?
- Fast absorption so the surface feels dry quickly.
- A leak-proof back sheet that does not tear when the person moves.
- A soft, quiet top layer that is gentle against the skin and does not rustle.
- Enough size to cover the area from the lower back to the thighs.
Using bed pads as a transfer aid
Some heavier-duty pads can help caregivers reposition a person in bed. With one caregiver on each side, hold the edges of the pad and slide the person gently up the bed. This reduces friction on the skin and protects the caregiver's back. Only use pads designed for this purpose, and never lift the full body weight with a disposable pad.
Bed pads after childbirth and surgery
New mothers often use bed pads for the first weeks after delivery, when bleeding can be heavy at night. Patients recovering from surgery also benefit from an extra layer of protection while mobility is limited. Read our guide to postpartum bleeding and bladder leaks for more tips.
Save money with the right routine
Place a fresh pad at bedtime and during diaper changes, rather than leaving one under the person all day. Choose the right size — a larger pad is only worth it for restless sleepers. Buying packs of 20 is usually more economical than packs of 10.
Frequently asked questions
How many bed pads do I need?
Most families use one to three per day. Packs of 10 or 20 are convenient for monthly ordering.
Can I use bed pads for pets or babies?
Yes — they work well for babies, pets and anywhere a waterproof, absorbent layer is needed.
