Bed Pads for Adults: Disposable, Washable and Mattress Covers

In short: Bed pads for adults come as disposable or washable under-pads, and both are best used as back-up alongside a waterproof mattress protector and, where needed, a body-worn product. Independent continence guidance says pads on their own seldom cope beyond light leaks, so a nurse’s advice is worth asking for if the bed is not staying dry. This guide compares the options and explains how to protect the mattress, duvet and skin.

What bed pads for adults do, and what they do not

A bed pad is an absorbent sheet placed on top of the bottom sheet to catch leaks, while a mattress protector is a waterproof layer that stops liquid reaching the mattress. The two do different jobs, and most people who leak at night need both.

The NHS describes washable bed pads as going on top of the mattress to absorb overnight leaks, and notes they can be useful when away from home. Age UK lists bed or chair protectors in the form of disposable or washable pads. Waterproof bedding such as mattress covers, pillow covers and duvet covers, by contrast, has no absorbent capacity and only provides a waterproof barrier, according to the Continence Product Advisor, a professional-led information site.

It is worth being clear about limits:

• Bed pads for adults are usually back-up, not the main product. The same site says both disposable and washable underpads are seldom used alone.
• People with bowel leakage need a body-worn product, according to the same source.
• Pads manage the mess, not the cause. The NHS says incontinence products are not a treatment, so mention night-time leaks to a GP.

Our guide to how to choose incontinence pads covers body-worn products. This page concentrates on the bed.

Disposable bed pads for adults

Disposable bed pads for adults are single-use under-pads with an absorbent layer and a plastic waterproof backing, and they suit short-term use, travel and changing time. The Continence Product Advisor describes them as a non-woven top sheet, a thin absorbent layer and a waterproof backing, some with tuck-in wings to hold them in place.

Where they work well

• Protecting furniture and bedding from leaks while a body-worn product is being changed, or during use of a bedpan or urinal.
• Extra protection under the sheet at night. The same source suggests a disposable pad can go under the sheet, and that if the bed stays dry for several nights one may be reused for about a week before it looks too creased or soiled.

Where they fall short

• They are thin and light, so they can fold or shift, leaving the leak unprotected or causing sore skin.
• Used alone, clothing has to be pulled up or removed, which many people find undignified.
• They are generally not absorbent enough for more than very light leaks.

Sizes: the same source says most disposable under-pads are at least 30 cm by 60 cm (24 by 36 inches). Check the dimensions on the pack, because a pad that covers only a small patch of the bed will not catch a restless sleeper’s leak.

Washable bed pads for adults

Washable bed pads for adults are reusable layers, usually with a fabric top, an absorbent core and often a waterproof backing, and they cost more at the start but are reused many times. The Continence Product Advisor says standard washable bed pads cover the middle of a single bed, with or without tuck-in wings or anti-friction backing, and that bespoke sizes can be made for a double bed.

Benefits

• They can be more economical over time, though the same source declines to give an exact price range because it varies.
• Some people find them more comfortable and less crinkly than plastic-backed disposables.
• A Royal Devon NHS trust leaflet notes washable pads can suit people who want to feel more normal.

Drawbacks

• They are generally less absorbent than a disposable pad of similar size and thickness.
• They are heavy when wet, slow to air dry and can be expensive to tumble dry, especially versions with a waterproof layer.
• You will probably need several to cover washing turnaround.

The Continence Product Advisor also notes that research on current washable products is lacking, and older studies found differences between brands. If you are comparing, check each maker’s absorbency information and ask a continence nurse or pharmacist for a view.

Washing

The same source says to wash as normal laundry, following the manufacturer’s instructions, and to avoid fabric conditioner, which can reduce absorbency. A Mersey Care NHS trust page, for its own reusable bedding, advises washing once before first use at 50 degrees Celsius, using ordinary detergent without softener, and not ironing. Always follow the instructions on your own products.

Mattress protectors, duvet covers and protecting the rest of the bed

A good waterproof mattress protector is the base of any plan, because a bed pad can slip while a protector stays fixed under the sheet. Waterproof bedding comes in a range of sizes. The Continence Product Advisor says cheaper plastic versions can feel hot and sweaty, are noisy and wear out quickly, while better ones use waterproof-coated fabric or a layered fabric with an internal waterproof membrane and feel softer and quieter.

Practical points from the sources:

• Choose a protector large enough for the whole mattress, and one that fits the bed you actually have. If someone uses an adjustable or hospital-style bed, check the mattress size first.
• The Alzheimer’s Society says a waterproof mattress protector should not come into contact with the skin, as it may cause chafing and soreness. Put a sheet and, if wanted, a bed pad over it.
• For night leaks, the Continence Product Advisor suggests combining a protector with washable under-pads and encasing the duvet and pillow in waterproof covers.
• Wipe-clean duvets and sleeping bag liners are also listed as waterproof options.
• Restless or side sleepers may need a washable under-pad as well as a body-worn product, as one pad may not stay put.

Two pads layered, one disposable and one washable, can make night changes quicker for a carer: remove the top layer, leave the rest. Our guide to night-time incontinence routines for carers has more ideas for planning a calm night.

Choosing bed pads for adults: size, absorbency and fit

The best choice among bed pads for adults depends on how heavy the leaks are, how much the person moves in bed and who does the changing. Use this as a checklist:

• Leak level. Light, occasional leaks may be covered by a washable pad or waterproof bedding alone, according to the Continence Product Advisor. Anything heavier usually needs a body-worn product too.
• Coverage. A restless sleeper needs a longer or wider pad. The same source suggests a double-size pad placed lengthwise on the bed for extra absorption and better positioning.
• Skin. Pads that bunch up can press on skin. If the person has fragile skin or spends long periods in bed, read our guides on protecting skin with continence products and bed sores and pressure ulcers.
• Confusion. The Continence Product Advisor notes washable under-pads can be an alternative to body-worn products for light, occasional leakage, or for people who try to remove body-worn pads because of confusion.
• Where to buy. Pharmacies, supermarkets, online retailers and mobility shops stock them. A Royal Devon NHS trust leaflet notes mobility shops tend to stock larger pads than chemists and supermarkets usually offer.

If the person is wearing pull-up pants or pads as well, bed pads for adults work alongside them. See our guide to incontinence pants or pads for how to choose between them. Bladder & Bowel UK also advises that loose pads placed under someone in bed or a chair, instead of a body-worn product, tend to cause leakage, so bed pads work best as an addition.

When to ask a continence nurse or GP

Ask a GP, district nurse or continence nurse if the bed is regularly wet despite good products, or if the skin is red, sore or broken.

• Leaks keep happening. Bladder & Bowel UK advises contacting a healthcare professional if a product leaks regularly or skin becomes sore, and says persistent problems merit a local continence service assessment. A new pattern of night-time leaking can also be a sign of something treatable such as an infection, so mention it to a GP.
• Sore skin. A Mersey Care NHS trust page says to contact your GP or district nurse straight away if skin is red or damaged.
• Needs have changed. The Alzheimer’s Society says the GP is the first point of contact and can ask for a referral to a continence adviser. It notes waiting times and service quality vary.

Whether bed pads for adults are supplied free depends on your area. The NHS says availability depends on your local integrated care board and you may need an assessment. Our guide to free incontinence products on the NHS explains how to ask. The sources fetched for this guide do not state that bed pads or mattress protectors are routinely supplied, so ask the local service what it covers.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

The advice on bed pads and waterproof covers applies across the UK, but what the NHS supplies varies by nation and local area. Ask your GP, district nurse or local health board or Health and Social Care Trust about the continence service in your area, and ask specifically whether bed protection is included.

Frequently asked questions

Are disposable or washable bed pads better?

Neither is better for everyone. Disposable pads are convenient for travel and changing time but are thin and not very absorbent. Washable pads cost more at the start, can be more economical over time, and need regular laundering. Many people use both.

Do I need a mattress protector as well as a bed pad?

Usually yes. A bed pad absorbs leaks but can slip or soak through, while a waterproof mattress protector shields the mattress. The Continence Product Advisor suggests combining a protector with washable pads, and covering the duvet and pillow for night leaks.

Should a mattress protector touch the skin?

No. The Alzheimer’s Society says a waterproof mattress protector should not come into contact with the skin as it may cause chafing and soreness. Put a sheet, and a bed pad if needed, over it.

What size bed pad should I buy?

Disposable pads are commonly at least 30 cm by 60 cm, and washable bed pads usually cover the middle of a single bed. Larger or bespoke sizes exist for double beds. Check dimensions on the pack and choose coverage that suits how much the person moves.

How do I wash reusable bed pads?

Follow the maker’s instructions. The Continence Product Advisor says to wash like normal laundry and avoid fabric conditioner, which can reduce absorbency. One NHS trust advises washing new items once before use at 50 degrees Celsius and not ironing.

Can I get bed pads free on the NHS?

It depends on where you live. The NHS says availability depends on your local integrated care board and you may need an assessment. Ask your GP about the local continence service, and ask whether bed protection is included.

When should I speak to a continence nurse?

Speak to one if leaks continue despite good products, the skin is sore or red, or needs have changed. Bladder & Bowel UK advises contacting a healthcare professional in these cases. Your GP can refer you to the local continence service.

Official sources

• NHS: Products to help with urinary incontinence
• NHS: Urinary incontinence treatment
• Continence Product Advisor: Bed and chair protection
• Alzheimer’s Society: Continence aids and professional support
• Age UK: Urinary incontinence
• Bladder & Bowel UK: Pads and containment products (reviewed June 2026)
• Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust: Incontinence pads and alternatives
• Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust: Care and fitting advice for your continence products

This page is general information, not legal, medical or financial advice. The Care Panel is an independent guide and is not part of any government body or care provider. Last checked 9 November 2026.

Related: Night-time incontinence routines for carers · Night-time care for the elderly · Mobility aids and wheelchairs

Reviewed by The Care Panel team on 9 November 2026. This guide is general information about care in England, not legal, medical or financial advice. Rules and rates change; check with your council or an adviser before making decisions.