It makes no difference whether you have incontinence or your elderly relative has incontinence. What matters is that reusable underpads are required to protect your bedding, furniture, wheelchair, and other surfaces. As a result, that explains why you’re here. To be sure, before you look for the best reusable underpads, you must first learn how to choose and handle them, including how to clean them properly.
Furthermore, because reusable underpads are intended for repeated use, you must understand how to manage them properly. Only then will these incontinence underpads demonstrate their worth as one of the best and most widely used products.
Aside from that, if your goal in using reusable underpads is to save and cut costs on underpads, you have a stronger reason to know how to clean them properly, right? So, read on for more information on cleaning reusable pads.
Disposable vs. Reusable Bed Pads
Incontinence bed pads are classified into two types: disposable and reusable.
Disposable bed pads are only used once. They are typically made of a less resilient fabric. Reusable bed pads, on the other hand, can be used multiple times and washed in between uses.
Although reusable bed pads are more expensive initially, they will save you more money in the long run. Because single-use items can harm the environment, many people are considering using washable products whenever possible.
Cleaning Reusable Underpads
Other names for reusable underpads include reusable incontinence bed pads, washable bed pads, and reusable chux pads. Regardless of their name, they are the most cost-effective, comfortable, environmentally friendly, and long-lasting underpads because their materials allow you to reuse them. They are the answer if you want low-cost but highly functional underpads that will last a long time.
However, reusable underpads are not inferior to disposable underpads because they are made just as sanitary as disposable underpads by adhering to the proper protocols. Do you want to know how to keep that perfect sanitation? Follow the cleaning tips provided below to achieve optimal incontinence management.
1. After noticing the reusable underpad is soiled, you must immediately wash it thoroughly
It would be best to be especially careful with reusable underpads because they require different cleaning methods. Cleaning requirements vary depending on the manufacturer’s instructions or product label.
High-quality reusable underpads are typically cleaned in an industrial washer with cold water and a fully dissolved laundry detergent. As a result, the underpads will be squeaky clean and ready for the next use.
2. Proper machine cleaning is needed for reusable underpads to have a long and useful life
Remember to only wash the reusable underpads in the washing machine at no more than 85% capacity, and follow the same guidelines for the dryer. More importantly, do not overload the washer with fabric softener or bleach, as these will undoubtedly damage the fabric, shortening its lifespan and deteriorating its condition and absorbency.
3. Make sure to remove the reusable underpads from the dryer within five minutes
Allowing the reusable underpads to sit in the dryer for an extended period can cause a foul odor. You can get them and air dry them. Remember that the more absorbent the reusable underpads are, the longer they will take to dry. With this in mind, buying two or more reusable underpads is best so that you always have one on hand.
Aside from cleaning, it would be best to keep other tips in mind for properly maintaining reusable underpads to keep them from breaking down and to help them last as long as possible. Among these suggestions are the following:
- Do not iron reusable underpads: If you only have two reusable underpads, you may be tempted to iron them so they dry quickly because you are concerned about running out. Unfortunately, ironing your underpads will not help them. Ironing them causes them to shrink, making them less absorbent. Over-drying can cause underpads to shrink. What’s more, the heat is coming from the iron. It will be a depressing sight to witness.
- Do not fold reusable underpads: Assume you don’t have any extra space for your reusable underpads. In that case, you should still forget that folding your underpads is a good idea. The shape and absorbency of underpads can be affected by folding them. Most reusable underpads have two sides: waterproof and absorbent. When folded, they can quickly cause leaks.
Because healthcare professionals and caregivers commonly use washable bed pads, it is essential to understand the benefits they can provide consumers. Here are a few of its many benefits:
Washable underpads can help you save money. You won’t bother going outside to buy a bunch of bed pads because you have a reusable one. When you do the math, you can save a small amount of money that you can use for other purposes.
There is less storage. Washable bed pads can be an ally if you are a minimalist because you won’t need storage cabinets or boxes to store your supply. You won’t run out of reusable bed pads if you have three on hand (one in use, one in the washer, and one on the go).
Excellent design. Most incontinence products, such as diapers, are designed to look like regular underwear. In the case of bed pads, most of their designs match the furniture. Most hospital bed pads, which are blue, match the beds. Bed pads will not draw attention to themselves in this manner. As a result, the patient is more at ease.
How Much Urine Can an Incontinence Pad Hold?
A typical adult bladder holds about 550ml (a pint) of urine, and most people must empty their bladder when it is about half full, so the amount of urine excreted at one time is about a cupful. Lightweight or heavyweight pads are available depending on the amount of flow. Quality pads with soakers weighing 5 to 10 ounces can hold several times the volume of urine that is likely to be excreted at one time.
How Often Should I Change Washable Incontinence Pads?
To protect your skin, it is critical to change wet pads immediately and to change your pad frequently throughout the day. Depending on the severity of the incontinence, this could be 2-6 times per day.
When the pad begins to feel wet next to your skin, it is time to replace it. When it’s time to change the bed, Special Indicator Underpads change color.
Bottomline
Consumers from hospitals and other healthcare facilities consider using washable underpads to help their patients due to their extensive uses and benefits. It has a soft top material, absorbent core, and waterproof backing, just like regular bed pads, to protect furniture from urine and fecal leakage.