Underpads

Disposable underpads protect beds, examination couches and wheelchairs from fluids. They consist of an absorbent core and a PE backing that stops moisture from reaching the mattress or couch. They are used in continence care, in hospitals and care homes, in GP surgeries and in veterinary practices as well.

The range comprises four underpads in two sizes. In the compact 40 × 60 cm format there is a 6-ply underpad with PE film. In the 60 × 90 cm bed size there are three options: a 6-ply underpad with cellulose core, a 6-ply underpad with a cellulose/SAP core and around 1,500 ml absorbency, and a super-absorbent incontinence pad with an SAP core and 2,500 ml absorbency.

Typical applications

• Mattress protection for residents with incontinence in care homes
• Bed protection after surgery or for bed-bound hospital patients
• Covering examination couches in medical and veterinary practices
• Protecting wheelchair seats with the small format
• Home care provided by relatives or community nursing services

What to look for when buying

Compare the stated absorbency with the volume of fluid in your setting. The 6-ply underpad with a cellulose/SAP core is stated at around 1,500 ml, the super-absorbent underpad with an SAP core at 2,500 ml. For the 6-ply underpad with a cellulose core and the 40 × 60 cm underpad, the product data gives no absorbency in millilitres.

Pack sizes are worth noting too: most underpads come 100 to a carton, the super-absorbent version 30 to a carton. That makes it easy to trial it first for individual residents or wards.

Frequently asked questions