How to Use an Underpad: Your Complete Action Guide for 2026

Life has a way of presenting challenges we never expected. Whether you're caring for an elderly parent, recovering from surgery, managing postpartum healing, or dealing with incontinence yourself, underpads can significantly simplify your daily routine. But here's the thing: having the right product only helps if you know how to use it correctly.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using underpads effectively, from understanding what they are to mastering proper placement and disposal.

What Exactly Is an Underpad?

Let's start with the basics. An underpad is not a diaper. This is an important distinction that confuses many first-time users.

An underpad (also called a bed pad or chux) is an absorbent sheet specifically designed to protect surfaces like beds, chairs, wheelchairs, and furniture from fluid leakage. Think of it as a protective barrier that sits between a person and the surface they're on.

Understanding Underpad Construction

Quality underpads feature three essential layers:

The Top Layer (Absorbent Side) This is the soft, non-plastic side that comes into contact with skin or clothing. It quickly pulls moisture away from the surface, keeping the area dry and comfortable.

The Absorbent Core This middle layer contains absorbent materials (typically a combination of fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers) that lock liquid away and prevent it from spreading or leaking back out.

The Waterproof Backing The bottom layer features a waterproof barrier (usually made from CPE film) that protects the surface underneath, preventing any moisture from seeping through to your mattress or furniture.

At Staysure, our underpads are made with antibacterial virgin wood pulp and CPE film, designed to serve both postpartum patients and adults dealing with incontinence.

Who Needs to Use Underpads?

Underpads serve a wider range of people than you might think:

Adults Managing Incontinence Whether due to aging, medical conditions, injuries, or medication side effects, many adults face incontinence challenges. Underpads provide crucial protection and peace of mind.

Bedridden or Immobile Individuals For people recovering from surgery or dealing with paralysis, underpads provide protection without requiring frequent movement, which can be painful or impossible.

New Mothers in Postpartum Recovery After giving birth, women experience lochia (discharge from the uterus). This bleeding can be quite heavy, especially in the first few weeks. Underpads provide excellent protection during this recovery period.

People with Cognitive Conditions Individuals dealing with dementia, Alzheimer's, or other cognitive conditions may not recognize when they need to use the bathroom. Underpads help manage accidents with dignity.

Those with Severe Gastrointestinal Issues When dealing with extreme diarrhea from illness or medical treatments, underpads provide protection during a time when accidents are more likely and the person needs to conserve energy for healing.

Step-by-Step: How to Use an Underpad Correctly

Let's get into the practical details. Using an underpad properly ensures maximum protection and comfort.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

First, decide where you need protection. Underpads work on beds, chairs, wheelchairs, changing tables, car seats, or any surface that needs moisture protection. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before placing your underpad.

Step 2: Remove and Unfold the Underpad

Take your underpad out of its package. You'll notice one side feels soft and absorbent, while the other has a plastic, waterproof feel. Hold the underpad at the edges and gently unfold it to its full size. Smooth out any creases or folds as you unfold it.

Step 3: Position the Underpad Correctly

Here's the critical part many people get wrong: The non-plastic absorbent side must face UP. This is the side that the person will lie or sit on.

For bed use:

• Center the underpad on the area where protection is most needed (typically under the hips and lower back)
• Ensure it covers enough area on both sides to catch any potential leakage

For chair use:

• Place the underpad so it covers the seat and extends slightly up the back

Step 4: Secure the Underpad in Place

Tucking Method (for beds) Tuck the edges under the mattress, similar to how you'd tuck in a fitted sheet. This keeps it from bunching up or sliding around during the night.

Tape Method For surfaces where tucking isn't possible (like chairs or wheelchairs), use medical tape on the corners of the waterproof side to keep the pad in place.

Under or On Top of Sheet You can place the underpad underneath your regular bed sheet for extra comfort, or on top of your sheet for maximum protection.

Step 5: Help Position the Person

If you're helping someone else:

• Gently turn or lift them to one side
• Slide the underpad underneath them, positioning it under their hips and lower back
• Smooth out any wrinkles to prevent discomfort
• Help them settle back onto the underpad comfortably

Make sure they're centered on the pad and that it's not bunched up anywhere.

How to Change a Soiled Underpad

Knowing when and how to change underpads is just as important as knowing how to place them.

When to Change Your Underpad

Change the underpad immediately when:

• It becomes soiled or wet
• You notice any odor
• The person reports discomfort
• After any incontinence incident

As a general practice, consider changing underpads 3 to 5 times per day for people with regular incontinence. For nighttime use, change it first thing in the morning.

The Changing Process

Gather Your Supplies First

• Fresh underpad
• Disposable gloves (optional)
• Gentle cleansing wipes or damp cloth
• Skin care products if needed
• Plastic bag for disposal

Remove the Soiled Underpad

• Gently turn or lift the person to one side
• Pull the underpad up and away from them
• Fold it with the soiled side inward to contain moisture and odor
• Place it in a plastic bag or trash can

Clean and Dry the Skin

• Use gentle wipes or a damp cloth to clean the area
• Pat the skin completely dry (never rub)
• Apply any barrier creams or skin care products if needed
• Let the area air dry for a moment if possible

Place the New Underpad

• Position the fresh underpad following the same steps outlined earlier
• Make sure it's smooth and properly positioned
• Help the person settle back comfortably

Dispose Properly

• Seal the used underpad in a plastic bag to contain odors
• Place it in your regular trash (never flush underpads)
• Wash your hands thoroughly, even if you wore gloves

This entire process becomes quicker and easier with practice. Most caregivers can complete an underpad change in just a few minutes once they're familiar with the routine.

Underpads vs. Diapers: Understanding the Difference

Many people wonder whether they should use underpads, diapers, or both. Let's clear up this common confusion.

When Underpads Work Better

Underpads are often more comfortable for people who:

• Spend most of their time in one location (bed or chair)
• Are bedridden or have very limited mobility
• Find diapers uncomfortable or restrictive
• Are at home where changing is convenient

The big advantage is that underpads aren't attached to the body, which many people find less confining and more dignified.

When Diapers Work Better

Adult diapers are usually the better choice for:

• Active individuals who move around during the day
• People who leave home regularly
• Situations where bathroom access is limited
• Times when immediate changing isn't possible

The Best Approach: Using Both Together

Here's what experienced caregivers have learned: using underpads and diapers together provides the best protection, especially at night. The diaper catches most accidents, while the underpad provides backup protection for your mattress or furniture. This two-layer approach gives you complete peace of mind.

How to Choose the Right Underpad for Your Needs

Not all underpads are created equal. Selecting the right one for your situation makes a huge difference.

Consider the Size You Need

Small Underpads (17" x 24" or similar) Best for people who sit most of the time, chair protection, and travel situations.

Medium Underpads (23" x 36" or similar) Best for standard bed use and most adult users.

Large Underpads (30" x 36" or larger) Best for people who move around a lot during sleep, larger individuals, and maximum protection needs.

Measure the area you need to protect and choose a size that provides adequate coverage with a little extra on the sides for security.

Determine the Absorbency Level You Need

Light Absorbency Good for minor, occasional leakage and daytime use when you can change frequently.

Moderate Absorbency Good for regular but manageable incontinence and most daytime situations.

Heavy Absorbency Good for severe incontinence, overnight use, and situations where frequent changing isn't possible.

Overnight/Maximum Absorbency Good for very heavy nighttime incontinence and situations requiring extended wear (8+ hours).

Think about your actual usage pattern. If you face regular incontinence throughout the night and sleep for 8 hours, you need heavy or overnight absorbency.

Material Quality Matters

Look for underpads that feature:

• Soft, non-woven top layer that's gentle on skin
• High-quality absorbent core with superabsorbent polymers
• Strong waterproof backing that won't tear easily
• Breathable materials that reduce heat and moisture buildup

Staysure underpads are made with virgin wood pulp, which provides excellent absorbency while being gentle on sensitive skin. The antibacterial properties help maintain hygiene and reduce odor.

Preventing Skin Problems When Using Underpads

One of the biggest concerns with any incontinence product is skin health. Extended contact with moisture can cause serious problems if you're not careful.

The Risks You Need to Know

People who use underpads regularly face potential skin issues like moisture-associated dermatitis, fungal infections, pressure sores, and skin breakdown. The good news? All of these are preventable with proper care.

Your Skin Protection Action Plan

Change Promptly Never leave someone on a soiled underpad longer than necessary. The longer skin stays in contact with moisture, the higher the risk of problems.

Clean Gently Use pH-balanced, gentle cleansers or just warm water. Avoid harsh soaps that strip away skin's natural protective oils.

Dry Thoroughly Pat (don't rub) the skin completely dry after cleaning. Pay special attention to skin folds where moisture can hide.

Use Barrier Protection Apply a thin layer of barrier cream or ointment to vulnerable areas. These products create a protective layer between skin and moisture.

Allow Air Circulation Whenever possible, give the skin some time to breathe. Even a few minutes of air exposure helps.

Check Skin Regularly Look for early signs of irritation like redness, warmth, or texture changes. Catching problems early makes them much easier to address.

Practical Tips for Underpad Users

After helping countless families manage incontinence, here are insider tips that make the biggest difference:

Create a Changing Station

Set up a dedicated space with everything you need: stack of fresh underpads, disposable gloves, cleansing wipes, barrier creams, plastic bags for disposal, and hand sanitizer. Having supplies organized and within reach makes changes faster and less stressful.

Use the Right Technique for Better Sleep

If you're concerned about the underpad feeling uncomfortable, place it under your fitted sheet for a more familiar sleeping surface, or choose underpads with quilted or extra-soft top layers. Make sure there are absolutely no wrinkles before lying down.

Buy in Bulk for Better Value

Once you find underpads that work for you, buying larger quantities saves money. Staysure offers multiple package sizes to match your needs and budget.

Keep Extras in Strategic Locations

Don't keep all your underpads in one place. Stash extras in the car, at your workplace, in a guest room if you travel to family, and near the bed for easy nighttime access.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learning from others' mistakes saves you time, money, and frustration.

Mistake 1: Choosing Based Only on Price

The cheapest underpad rarely provides the best value. Poor-quality underpads leak more, tear easily, and can cause skin irritation. Invest in quality products that actually protect.

Mistake 2: Wrong Side Up

This happens more often than you'd think. Remember: the soft, absorbent side faces UP. The plastic waterproof side faces DOWN against the surface you're protecting.

Mistake 3: Using the Same Underpad Too Long

Change underpads promptly when soiled. Leaving someone on a soiled underpad causes skin problems that cost more to treat than buying new underpads.

Mistake 4: Choosing the Wrong Size

An underpad that's too small leaves gaps in protection. One that's too large can bunch up and create discomfort. Measure your needs and choose accordingly.

Mistake 5: Not Smoothing Out Wrinkles

Those wrinkles you ignore during placement become pressure points that cause discomfort and reduce the underpad's effectiveness.

Conclusion: Taking Control with Confidence

Using underpads correctly transforms them from just another product into a tool that provides real freedom and dignity. Whether you're managing your own incontinence, caring for an elderly parent, or supporting someone through recovery, mastering these techniques makes daily life significantly easier.

The key points to remember:

• Choose quality underpads appropriate for your absorbency needs
• Position them correctly with the absorbent side facing up
• Change them promptly when soiled to protect skin health
• Combine with other products like adult diapers for complete protection
• Don't hesitate to try different options until you find what works best

At Staysure, we understand that everyone's needs are unique. That's why we offer high-quality underpads designed for both comfort and protection.

Ready to Experience Better Protection?

1. Browse our underpad collection to find the right size and absorbency
2. Explore our complete product range for comprehensive care solutions
3. Contact our team with questions about product selection

Living with incontinence or caring for someone who does requires patience and the right tools. Underpads are one of those essential tools that, when used correctly, make a real difference in comfort, cleanliness, and quality of life.

Visit Staysure.asia today to discover underpads and hygiene solutions designed with your comfort and dignity in mind.