Don't Ignore Incontinence—These Top Pads Are Expert-Approved to Keep You Dry and Odor-Free (2024)

Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Absorbency in an Incontinence Pad What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know When to See a Healthcare Provider Best for Heavy Leaks Always Discreet Incontinence Pads Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind Best for Sensitive Skin ATTN: Grace Incontinence Briefs Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind Best for Overnight TENA Sensitive Care Extra Coverage Overnight Pads Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind Best for Postpartum Always Discreet Regular Length Heavy Absorbency Incontinence Pads Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind Best for Older People Elyte Extra Absorbency Incontinence Pads Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind Best for Light Protection Poise Ultra Thin Moderate Absorbency Incontinence Pads for Women Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind Best for Men Depends Incontinence Guards for Men Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind Best for Active Lifestyle Poise Ultimate Absorbency Regular Incontinence Pads Key Specs Why We Recommend It Keep In Mind How We Tested the Incontinence Pads Our Experts Why Trust Verywell Health

The need for incontinence pads is more common than you may think. Approximately 13 million people in the U.S. are directly affected by urinary incontinence. Minor incontinence can cause small amounts of leakage when you laugh or sneeze, while more severe incontinence includes a loss of bladder control that results in larger leakage.

According to Susan Winograd, PT, a physical therapist and founder of Pelvicore Rehab & Wellness, incontinence also ​​remains largely taboo, often leading to feelings of embarrassment, isolation, and frustration for those who experience it. But it’s not something you have to live with forever, and it should always be addressed.

In the meantime, incontinence pads can alleviate some of the embarrassment and provide a level of comfort when leakage occurs. These pads are formulated with absorbent materials to help soak up urine and prevent odors from escaping. This helps when you’re on the go and unable to change after a leak. After researching available incontinence pads on the market, we tested top products in The Verywell Health Testing Lab. We evaluated the pads based on their absorbency, dryness, odor protection, and value. We also ranked the pads based on design and comfort.

Choosing the Right Absorbency in an Incontinence Pad

The most important characteristic of an incontinence pad is its ability to absorb leakages at the level you need. They are specifically designed to absorb and wick away moisture, says Unwanaobong Nseyo, MD, a urologist.

This allows the pad to protect your skin from irritation while containing leakage. Although incontinence pads are all created with absorbency as a key feature, how much the pad can handle depends on its absorbency ratings. Brands tend to use similar verbiage to describe the absorbency rating. These include:

  • Thin/light: Designed for the smallest amounts of leakage and can only absorb a few droplets at a time.
  • Moderate: Designed to absorb light dribbles of leakage.
  • Ultimate: Created to absorb moderate amounts of leakage. Since they have a higher absorbency rate, Ultimate pads are often thicker and longer.
  • Maximum: Hold the highest absorbency rate on the market and can hold a heavy dribble. They also tend to be the thickest and longest options on the market.

What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know

  • Menstrual pads vs. Incontinence pads:You also need to make sure you are using incontinence pads for urine leakage and not menstrual pads orperiod underwear. Many people assume menstrual pads or underwear can be used, but this is not the case. Nseyo says that menstrual pads often lack absorbability, cannot hold as much fluid as incontinence pads, and do not have the same moisture-wicking capabilities.
  • Absorbancy level: The level of absorbency you need will depend on how much leakage you experience and how often. Charles Ascher-Walsh, MD, senior system vice-chair for gynecology and division director for urogynecology at Mount Sinai, recommends adult diapers for individuals who need a product to hold a full bladder since they were designed to hold more urine than pads.
  • When to change them: As for how often you should change your pad, Nseyo says it depends on what triggers leakage and how frequently it happens. You should change an incontinence pad as soon as it becomes damp or soaked with leakage. A damp or moist pad will likely irritate your skin if left unchanged.
  • Odor control: When wearing an incontinence pad, especially on the go, an important characteristic is that the pad is discrete and that it masks odors. Pads are available in both unscented and scented to assist with the masking smells. But Ascher-Walsh recommends avoiding scented pads because they are more likely to irritate skin and cause allergic reactions.
  • Materials and comfort: One way to assess the pad’s comfort is to check which materials are used. Nseyo says most incontinence pads contain absorbent polymers and a cotton top sheet. She advises individuals with sensitive skin to look for breathable fabrics or brands specifically designed for sensitive skin to reduce irritation and improve comfort. Also, if you have sensitive skin but higher absorbency pads are uncomfortable, you can use a thinner pad and change it more frequently.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

According to Winograd, incontinence is a sign that something in your body isn’t functioning as it should, so it’s always worth discussing this experience with a healthcare provider. But there are some symptoms that should be addressed right away, she says. These include:

  • Sudden onset of incontinence after not having issues before.
  • Blood in the urine, which can indicate infection,kidney stones, or more serious conditions like bladder cancer.
  • Pain during urination or in the pelvic region, which may suggest an infection or other underlying conditions.
  • Frequent or urgent need to urinate, but only passing small amounts. This could be a sign of an infection or bladder blockage.
  • Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can contribute to incontinence or indicate an issue with bladder function.

If you are experiencing incontinence, it is likely affecting your day-to-day activities or emotional well-being, says Winograd. In this case, it’s time to see a healthcare provider to explore treatment options, she says.

Pros

  • Extra long for all-around protection

  • Pleasant floral scent

  • Protects underwear from leakage

Cons

  • Slow to absorb liquid

  • Scent may irritate sensitive skin

Key Specs

Material: Fabric | Absorbency: Extra heavy | Odor Control: Yes | Quantity: 40

Why We Recommend It

When it comes to maximum absorbency, effective liquid retention, and excellent odor control, none does it better than Always Discreet Boutique Incontinence Pads. We also appreciate the pleasant scent, which was likely the result of the product’s “Hidden RapidDry Core” and scent technology for odor masking. If you like floral scents, you will like the scent of this pad.

This extra heavy, extra long incontinence pad also is a secure option for people who experience heavy leaks. During our testing, there was no leakage, and the underwear was completely dry and clean. After pressing onto the pad, no liquid seeped out either. Plus, the long construction of the pad creates all-around protection for the wearer.

Keep In Mind

Despite this incontinence pad’s excellent absorbency, it is a little slower to absorb liquids when compared to other pads and our editor notices that initially there was some moisture retention on the surface. But once the liquid was absorbed, the surface felt dry. Likewise, this pad has a pleasing floral scent and masks odors but it may cause skin irritation for those with sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free

  • Rapid absorbency

  • Excellent odor control

Cons

  • Limited quantity per package

  • Some may not like the brief design

Key Specs

Material: Plant-based fibers | Absorbency: Maximum | Odor Control: Yes | Quantity: 14

Why We Recommend It

If you have sensitive skin, you already know how hard it is to find a product that doesn’t cause irritation. But the ATTN Grace Incontinence Pads may be the answer you’re looking for since they are fragrance-free and made with plant-based fibers. And despite being a more natural product, they don't disappoint when it comes to rapid absorption, dryness, and odor control.

During our test, the liquid that we poured onto these briefs was immediately absorbed within a matter of seconds. The five tablespoons of liquid was fully contained where it was poured and didn't leak onto any of the surrounding areas. After pressing the pad post-absorption, there was absolutely no liquid seeping over the edges at all. We also noticed that when this pad reached its maximum absorbency listed, it would still be able to handle more liquid poured into it. It also did an excellent job masking odors despite being a fragrance-free pad.

Keep In Mind

These pads are like briefs and, though they are comfortable, may not be the design or style some people prefer. Likewise, there are only 14 briefs per package, so if you go through pads quickly, these may not be the right option for you.

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Pros

  • Excellent absorbency

  • Impressive odor control

  • No overpowering scents

Cons

  • Slightly bulky

  • Synthetic materials

Key Specs

Material: Polypropylene/polyethylene polyester/viscose | Absorbency: Overnight | Odor Control: Yes | Quantity: 28

Why We Recommend It

Overnight leaks can disrupt sleep, irritate skin, and cause frustration. But the TENA Sensitive Care Extra Coverage Overnight Pads offer excellent absorbency and effectively maintain dryness, giving the wearer the peace of mind they need to rest comfortably. They are also a good option for people who need extended daytime use.

We especially appreciated the superb odor control with no overpowering scents. This feature was impressive, considering there is no specific scent technology or odor masking advertised on the product. Once the liquid was absorbed during our test, it simply smelled like nothing. Overall, this pad is a good choice for those who need a high-absorbency pad for overnight use.

Keep In Mind

Given their incredible absorbency, these pads are naturally bulky, which could be uncomfortable for some people. Likewise, they're made with synthetic materials, which is what makes them so absorbent, but they may cause irritation for people with sensitive skin.

Pros

  • High absorbency rate

  • Completely dry to touch after leakage

  • Thin design makes for discrete wear

Cons

  • Scented

  • Might not be wide enough for some underwear

Key Specs

Material: Cotton | Absorbency: Maximum | Odor Control: Yes | Quantity: 48

Why We Recommend It

It’s not uncommon to experience urine leakage temporarily after birth because the pelvic floor muscles—which support the bladder, bowel, and uterus—are stretched to accommodate baby birthing. Our testing found that the Always Discreet Incontinence and Postpartum Pads are great for post-birth incontinence. After pouring four tablespoons of liquid on the pad, the pad soaked up every drop and left it completely dry to the touch.

Based on our testing, we found that the pad's thinness did not work as a disadvantage. Instead, the pad has a high absorbency for its size, while the sleek design makes it possible to wear the pad without seeing it through clothing. We also love that it offers odor protection from leakage.

Keep In Mind

Remember that the pad’s more discrete design might not protect your underwear's full length and width.

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Pros

  • Easy to attach to underwear

  • Fast absorption rate

  • Lightweight design

Cons

  • More expensive compared to other pads

  • Bulkier than other options

Key Specs

Material: Cotton | Absorbency: Maximum | Odor Control: Yes | Quantity: 20

Why We Recommend It

What makes the Elyte Light Cotton Incontinence Pad stand out as an optimal option for older people is how easy these pads are to use and how quickly they absorb liquid. After pouring liquid onto the pad, we watched it absorb instantly, leaving behind a pad that was dry to the touch no matter how much we pressed down on the surface.

Not only does the Elyte Light Cotton Incontinence Pad absorb liquid fast, but it's also easy to use. The pad is easy to stick onto underwear, and no matter how much we moved around, it remained in place with no leakage. This is especially helpful for people with dexterity issues or those who shift or move a lot in their sleep. Best of all, the pad also controls odors from leaks. We found that it largely masked any odor from liquids poured on the surface, and this odor protection extended to the surface of the underwear as well.

Keep In Mind

This option is bulkier and more expensive than other picks.

Pros

  • Absorbs moderate amounts of liquid

  • Keeps pad and underwear dry

  • Discrete design

Cons

  • Pad wings might bunch up

  • Only masks some of the odor

Key Specs

Material: Not listed | Absorbency: Moderate | Odor Control: Some control | Quantity: 90

Why We Recommend It

The Poise Ultra-Thin Incontinence Pads are optimal for absorbing occasional light leaks and keeping underwear dry. Don’t let this ultra-thin design fool you, though. We found this pad could easily absorb 2.5 tablespoons of liquid without any issues. Although more liquid sat on the surface when we added more, eventually, the pad absorbed that liquid as well.

We also found the pad was dry to touch and the underwear remained dry underneath. Additionally, the pad assisted with masking some of the liquid’s smell. We did detect the occasional whiff, but the pad masked most odors.

Keep In Mind

This pad differs from other incontinence pads on the market because it uses wings to attach the pad to the underwear. Although this helps secure the pad, we found the wings could bunch around the underwear in certain places.

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Pros

  • Absorbs leakage fast

  • Includes helpful product placement instructions

  • Underwear remains dry to touch

Cons

  • Sides may become damp

  • Only masks some odor

Key Specs

Material: Cotton | Absorbency: Maximum | Odor Control: Some | Quantity: 104

Why We Recommend It

Depend Guards for Men are designed to absorb leakage and protect underwear. The pads include a thicker section directly in its center to absorb most of the leakage as it comes. We found that the pads quickly absorbed all liquid, specifically in the center. Although the material was thinner toward the edges of the pad, it absorbed every drop of liquid without any issue.

After testing the pads' absorbency, we noticed that the edges remained damp. Nonetheless, the underwear was left well-protected and stayed completely dry throughout the test. Besides keeping the underwear protected, the pads also mask most odors—a necessary feature for incontinence pads.

Keep In Mind

For individuals who have never used incontinence pads before, the product includes helpful instructions on how to apply the pads to your underwear so they remain secure.

Pros

  • Near-instant absorbency of liquid

  • Masks odor within minutes

  • Elevated side panels prevent leakage

Cons

  • Bulky to wear

  • Side panels might irritate sensitive skin

Key Specs

Material: Sodium polyacrylate, polyethylene | Absorbency: Maximum | Odor Control: Yes | Quantity: 96

Why We Recommend It

Poise Ultimate Absorbency Regular Incontinence Pads hit the mark for what you need most in an incontinence pad—high absorbency, odor control, and a leak-proof design. During our test, we found the pads instantly absorbed the liquid as soon as it touched the surface. This left the pads feeling completely dry to the touch, no matter how hard we pressed on the surface. We also found that after pouring apple cider on the pads and letting it sit for 10 minutes, the acid’s smell was completely masked.

We also liked the pads' leak-proof design. Not only do the pads cover and protect underwear, but elevated side panels on the product also prevent any side leakage. Although the pads are bulkier than others on the market, we found that their absorbent design and ability to mask odors made them a top choice.

Keep In Mind

Depending on the individual, the side panels might cause some chafing or irritation, but the design is otherwise fit for comfort and protects underwear from leakage.

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How We Tested the Incontinence Pads

We consulted with Jennifer Wu, MD, a practicing board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist in New York City, who told us that the right product depends on the user's comfort level. To cover all of the bases, we included a wide range of absorbency levels from very light to overnight and maximum absorbency. We then assessed each product based on the following criteria:

  • Absorbency: We followed the pad’s absorbency instructions and poured the designated amount of liquid on top of the incontinence pad. Once the liquid was poured, we noted how fast the pad absorbed the liquid and whether or not all liquid was absorbed.
  • Dryness: After pouring liquid on the pad, we tested how dry the pad remained by pressing our fingers into the pad.
  • Odor protection: We tested each product’s odor control by pouring apple cider liquid onto each pad and noting whether or not any scent came off the pad. We also noted how well each pad covered the underwear and whether the pad felt comfortable to wear.
  • Value: After testing, we compared its performance to the price point to see if its value was worth the financial cost.

Our Experts

In addition to our testing process, we also spoke with the following experts about incontinence and what features to look for in incontinence pads:

  • Karny Jacoby, MD, urogynecologist at Overlake Medical Center and Clinics
  • Unwanaobong Nseyo, MD, a urologist at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
  • Charles Ascher-Walsh, MD, senior system vice-chair for gynecology and division director for urogynecology in the Raquel and Jaime Gilinski Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science at Mount Sinai
  • Susan Winograd, PT, a physical therapist and founder of Pelvicore Rehab & Wellness
  • Jennifer Wu, MD, a practicing board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist in New York City

Why Trust Verywell Health

Sherri Gordon, CLC, has been covering health and social issues for over a decade and has written countless articles with a health focus. She is well versed and knowledgeable about a number of health conditions that can impact our everyday lives. When making product recommendations, Sherri adds a layer of detail that ensures readers can choose what is right for them and still understand the medical significance behind it.

Don't Ignore Incontinence—These Top Pads Are Expert-Approved to Keep You Dry and Odor-Free (2024)
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