Double Diapering: Why Using Two Adult Diapers Doesn’t Work
Incontinence is a common condition that many adults face, either due to aging, temporary health issues, or medical conditions. One of the most frequent concerns for those suffering from incontinence is leakage. Leakage not only causes discomfort and skin irritation but can also result in embarrassment and poor self-esteem.
Many individuals attempt to solve the problem by double diapering, but because adult diapers are not meant to be used this way, the problem persists. In this article, we discuss other alternative ways to manage incontinence and prevent leaks.
Causes Of Diaper Leakage
When used correctly, adult diapers are designed to keep individuals with urinary incontinence dry. Common causes of leaking diapers include:
- Incorrect sizing
- Incorrect application
- Skin moisture and perspiration
- Movement and activity
- Nighttime incontinence
Incorrect Sizing
One of the most common reasons that adult diapers leak, is incorrect sizing. A too-large diaper, with an improper seal around the waist and legs, results in gaps that allow urine and stool to leak. Large diapers also bunch up or shift, which also causes gaps and subsequent leaking.
If the diaper is too small, it may not provide sufficient absorbency. Not having enough absorbency, especially in individuals having heavy or frequent incontinence, will cause the diaper to saturate quickly, leading to overflow and leakage.
Incorrect Application
Incorrect diaper positioning and application will lead to leakage. A diaper not properly aligned to the body will bunch or move out of position resulting in the diaper being unable to effectively absorb moisture and causing friction, leakage, and potential skin breakdown.
Skin Moisture And Perspiration
Excessive perspiration or humidity can affect the diaper fit. Moisture also weakens the diaper’s tabs and loosens their grip causing it to shift and leak.
Moisture And Activity
Active individuals may experience diaper leakage due to increased movement. Walking, sitting, or even changing position often causes an ill-fitting or poor-quality diaper to bunch up or shift, resulting in leaks.
Nighttime Incontinence
Since individuals are often asleep for long periods at night, nighttime incontinence presents a unique challenge. A diaper with inadequate absorbancy will likely leak (side sleepers are especially prone to leakage) as it becomes saturated at night. Specialized nighttime diapers, with higher absorbancy, are recommended for nighttime use.
Why Double-Diapering Does Not Work
Some people resort to double diapering to combat leakage. This method is not only ineffective but can also exacerbate the problem. Here are some reasons that double-diapering does not work:
It Does Not Increase Absorbency
Diapers have an inner absorbent layer, and an outer, waterproof layer. When the inner diaper becomes saturated, the waterproof layer will prevent the leakage from going through to the second diaper. Moisture will start to leak out around the legs and waist gaps instead.
Increased Bulk And Discomfort
The extra bulk of two diapers often makes movement difficult and leads to skin chafing and friction. The extra thickness of the second diaper is often noticeable under clothing, causing the wearer to be embarrassed and self-conscious.
Improper Fit
Double diapering prevents a snug fit, especially around the waist and legs. Diapers that don’t fit snugly, will leak from the gaps, especially when the individual moves.
Skin Irritation And Breakdown
The increased bulk of double diapering traps heat and moisture against the skin, leading to skin irritation, discomfort, and/or diaper rash. Adding an extra layer interferes with the diaper’s function of wicking moisture away from the skin, resulting in a damp and uncomfortable environment, and an environment where bacteria thrive.
Increased Cost
Double diapering results in double the expense, for no extra benefit. Individuals who wear double diapers not only end up using twice the amount of diapers but also have to change diapers more often due to leakage.
Effective Solutions For Preventing Diaper Leakage
Instead of double-diapering, individuals can apply other effective strategies to manage incontinence and prevent leaks. These solutions focus on:
- Choosing the right diapers and complementing products
- Improving diaper fit
Choose The Right Diaper
Selecting the right adult diaper is paramount to preventing leaks. Factors to consider when choosing a diaper include:
Absorbency
Ensure the diaper is designed to handle the absorbancy required. High-absorbency diapers are recommended for nighttime use and for individuals who frequently saturate standard diapers.
Diaper Size
To prevent leakage, the diaper must fit snugly around the waist and legs. Most diaper brands offer sizing guide charts to help you choose the correct size.
Type Of Diaper
There are many different types of diapers, and individuals may need to try different types before they find one to suit their needs. Pull-up briefs are the diapers of choice for mobile individuals, whereas adjustable, tab-style diapers, are ideal for bed-ridden individuals.
Complementary Products
For individuals who require extra absorbancy, the following products are beneficial:
Booster Pads
Otherwise referred to as absorbancy pads, booster pads are a much more effective way of preventing leakage than double-diapering.
Booster pads are worn inside the diaper. They provide an extra absorption layer but still allow urine to pass through to the diaper. They are also less bulky and more comfortable.
Protective Garments
Protective garments that can be worn over the diaper include plastic pants and waterproof covers. Designed to add an extra layer of protection, these are especially beneficial for individuals with heavy incontinence or for those who need extra protection at night.
Superior Incontinence Products At Affordable Medical Supply, Tamarac
At Affordable Medical Supply we believe that everyone deserves to live in comfort and with dignity. By choosing the proper products and ensuring a proper fit, individuals can effectively manage incontinence and prevent leaks.
At Affordable Medical Supply we believe that incontinence can be managed discretely and effectively, allowing individuals to maintain their dignity and quality of life. For more information on what we offer contact us at 954-484-7599 today.
