When it comes to incontinence products, one size definitely does not fit all. In fact, having adult diapers or disposable underwear that fit correctly vs. incorrectly can mean the difference between staying dry and dealing with all-too-embarrassing leaks.
But knowing what size incontinence products to buy isn’t quite as easy as it sounds. Unlike pants, which usually only take into account your waist size, adult diapers need to fit snugly through the waist, hips and leg openings. Plus, different manufacturers often use different measurements for their sizing, making it even trickier to know exactly what size to buy.
Your body shape can also factor into what type of incontinence products are best for you. For example, if you are someone with thinner thighs, you may find that tab-style briefs protect you better than pull-on disposable underwear. However, if you have thicker thighs and a smaller waist, then the pull-on underwear style of incontinence products may work better.
Finding Out What Size Adult Diapers to Buy
To determine which size incontinence products to buy, you’ll need to get a flexible tape measure. If you don’t have a tape measure, you can use a piece of string and wrap that around your body (as described below), and then measure the string with a regular ruler.
Here are the steps to finding your size:
- Step 1: Measure your waist size by using a tape measure to measure around your waist, at or below the belly button.
- Step 2: Next, stand with your heels together and measure around the widest part of your hips, going from bone to bone and over your abdomen.
- Step 3: Whichever is larger is the number is the one you need to remember. Then add two inches to that number to get the best fit.
- Step 4: Use the charts from the manufacturer to determine the best size for you. Here is the sizing chart from Cardinal Health and here is the sizing chart from Medline.
- Step 5: Buy a small quantity to try. When you try them on, run your finger underneath the elastic at the leg opening. The opening should be snug, but not so tight that it cuts off your circulation. If the leg opening is too loose, you could have leaks. If you are using the tab-style briefs, adjust the tabs to get the tightest fit possible without causing pain.
How to Know If Your Adult Diaper or Incontinence Brief Fits Correctly
Incontinence products should feel secure, but they shouldn’t be so tight that they cause red marks on the skin or cut off your circulation. You should be able to move freely without creating any sagging or gaps when you move.
If the waist sags, you probably need a smaller size. But if the tabs on the side come undone, you probably need a larger size because it means that you’re pulling on the tabs too much.
Remember, adult diapers that are too big tend to leak around the leg openings, especially when you’re lying down, so it’s a good idea to try the diapers on in that position to check for gaps around the legs, and always start with the smallest size you think you can wear.
