If you wear adult pull-ups for incontinence and still experience leaking, you’re not alone. Many people find that their incontinence product doesn’t always provide the protection they need — especially at night. However, you can solve leakage issues with the right combination of product size, fit and absorbency level.
In this article, we’ll explain the following:
- Why pull-ups sometimes leak
- When to consider switching to a different type of adult diaper or supplementing with a booster pad
- How to prevent leaks so you can maintain comfort and peace of mind
Why Pull-ups Might Leak
Adult pull-ups, also called incontinence underwear, are designed for people who want a discreet, underwear-like fit. But leaks can happen for a variety of reasons:
- Incorrect Sizing: A poorly fitting adult diaper — too tight or too loose — can leave gaps that allow fluid to escape, especially around the leg cuffs.
- Low Absorbency: Standard pull-on diapers may not provide overnight absorbency levels, especially for those with moderate to heavy bladder or bowel incontinence.
- Improper Positioning: Leaks are more likely to occur if the product isn’t adjusted properly or shifts while you sleep or move around.
- Overuse: Wearing a pull-up past its absorbency capacity can cause leakage, which can lead to stressful cleanups.
Helpful Tips to Prevent Pull-Ups From Leaking
Here’s how to make sure your adult diapers work effectively, day and night:
1. Choose the Right Product Size
Always check the sizing guide on your preferred brand of incontinence products. Typically, sizing is based on waist or hip measurements. A snug, secure fit around the waist and thighs will help contain leaks.
2. Use Booster Pads for Extra Absorbency
Consider adding booster pads for more absorbency if your pull-ups leak frequently, especially at bedtime. These are designed to fit inside the actual diaper for more protection during extended periods of time.
3. Upgrade to Overnight Diapers
Overnight diapers with high absorbency levels may provide better protection than standard pull-ups. They’re designed to handle higher volumes of fluid and keep you dry throughout the night.
4. Adjust the Leg Cuffs
When changing your pull-on absorbent product, check the leg cuffs to ensure they’re not tucked in or twisted. Properly positioned cuffs help create a seal that blocks leaks during activities and sleep.
5. Change at the Right Time
A wet pull-up loses its ability to absorb new moisture, increasing the chance of leakage. Regularly changing it before it reaches the point of complete absorption can make a big difference. Most brands feature a wetness indicator to help know when a change is needed.
6. Use Bed Pads
Even with the best incontinence products, accidents can happen. Placing a plastic sheet or absorbent bed pad on the surface of the bed adds an extra layer of protection, keeping sheets dry and making clean-up easy in the case of a leak.
When to Consider a Different Incontinence Product
If you’ve tried all the tips listed above and your pull-ups still leak, it may be time to switch to a different incontinence product. Tape-tab diapers often provide a more secure fit and better overnight absorbency, particularly for those with limited mobility or heavier incontinence.
Leaks shouldn’t stop you from living confidently or getting a full night’s sleep. With the correct absorbency, size and a few simple strategies, you can enjoy reliable protection and peace of mind at bedtime, work or anywhere in between.
For more tips on how to ensure you are using the best adult diapers and pull-ons, check out our Leak-Proof Adult Diapers Guide.
