There is a dizzying array of pads out there. I hope these tips will help you in your selection, but we can help you even more! We offer a service that will really be useful to you when choosing pads, in particular! The service? Our free sample program and discreet home delivery. Contact us for more information.

And now for a brief rundown of the pads that are available.

Bladder Control Pads

These should be selected by absorbency level, thickness, and length. They can also be selected by gender: unisex, women, or men. With so many available options, you may need to try out more than one kind, so it makes sense to contacts us for free samples!  

Most bladder control pads are for light to moderate incontinence and are designed to be worn inside regular underwear. They should never ever be used inside of briefs (adult diapers) or protective underwear (adult pullups). These pads do not increase the absorbency of the diaper or pull-up; nor do they reduce the possibility of leakage. In fact, they can actually increase the leakage factor. Bladder control pads fill to capacity...but have a barrier backing that prevents liquid from flowing through.  That’s very good news if we are talking about regular underwear - but in diapers or pullups, not so much. Once the pad fills inside a diaper, the sides just get soggy, and the excess fluid does not go into the absorbent area of the diaper (sometimes referred to as the “acquisition” area). Results? Leaks (especially around inner leg cuffs), rashes, and nighttime changes.

Booster Pads

If you need to increase the absorbency of a brief or protective underwear, it’s booster pads to the rescue!   Booster pads may also be called “diaper liners”, which also makes sense because you would only want to use them in diapers and protective underwear.  They do not have a waterproof barrier, so they would not be appropriate for use in regular underwear.  Booster pads are designed to fill to capacity; and then allow excess liquid to flow into the diaper or pull-up - right into the absorbent (or “acquisition”) area. Booster pads are also available in different sizes and shapes, so it can be challenging to determine which will work best.  Ask us for samples.


Joan Van Veen, Marketing Associate at HDIS/PMF