Continence Products Buyer’s Guide

Managing your daily continence effectively is essential for maintaining comfort, hygiene, and dignity for most elderly individuals and those also with disabilities.  

Whether you need incontinence pads, waterproof bed protectors, bedpans and/or any other product or incontinence management equipment, choosing the right continence products can greatly improve quality of life for the user and reduce stress for caregivers. 

This guide will walk you through why you may need continence products, give some key factors to consider before purchasing, highlight the different product options available, any additional considerations like size and absorbency, and identify any funding options in New Zealand that you might be eligible to apply for. 

Why Do I Need Continence Products? 

Continence products provide comfort and personal protection for individuals who:

• Need temporary continence solutions after surgery or medical treatment 

The right continence products can enhance independence, reduce discomfort, and maintain hygiene, for both users and caregivers. 

What Are the Purchase Considerations? 

1. Intended Use 

• What level of absorbency is needed? Light, moderate, or heavy protection? 

• Will the product be used during the day or night? Nighttime solutions often require higher absorbency. 

• Is the user mobile or bedridden? Some products are designed for active individuals, while others provide support for those confined to a bed or chair. 

2. Comfort & Fit 

• Sizing: Incontinence pads and adult underwear/nappies come in various sizes to ensure a snug but comfortable fit. 

• Skin-friendliness: Look for brands with breathable materials to reduce irritation. 

3. Absorbency & Leakage Protection 

• Choose a product to prevent leaks and keep the user dry. 

• Odour control helps maintain freshness and confidence. 

4. Ease of Use & Disposal 

• Disposable or washable: Disposable bed pads and underwear are convenient, while washable continence underwear are more cost-effective in the long run. 

• How often will the product need changing? Some options require frequent replacement, while others provide all-night protection. 

5. Budget 

Prices vary depending on brand, absorbency level, and pack size. Consider a products cost-effectiveness when choosing between disposable and reusable options. 

View the range of continence management products that Auckland Independent Living stores and our website have here – www.ilsnz.org/collections/continence-products  

 

What Are the Options? 

There are several types of wearable continence products available in NZ, each suited to a different continence need, with washable and disposable options for various levels of continence support also available if required.  

Also, there are products & equipment that support bathroom and bedroom requirements, and to help better manage continence needs: 

1. Incontinence Pads & Underwear 

Pads & Disposable Nappies 

• Designed for men and women experiencing light to heavy incontinence 

• Disposable incontinence pads offer discreet, form-fitting protection 

• TENA and Advance underwear are  popular choices for reliability and comfort

Adult Underwear  

• Reusable and easily washable 

• Conni and other brands provide comfort in various absorbencies and sizes 

2. Bed Protection (Bed Pads & Mattress Covers) 

Disposable Bed Pads - such as Advance Underlays 

• Single-use, absorbent pads placed on beds or chairs for added protection 

• Convenient for travel and short-term use 

 

Waterproof Bed/Chair Pads - such as Brolly Sheets & Conni 

• Washable, reusable pads with a waterproof backing 

• Helps protect mattresses and furniture from continence leaks 

 

Bed Wetting Sheets - such as Brolly Sheets & Conni  

• Absorbent sheets designed to keep the user dry overnight 

• Typically waterproof and machine washable 

 

3. Bed pans & Urinals

Bed Pan  

• Essential for bedridden individuals who cannot access a toilet 

• Available in plastic, stainless steel, or disposable options 

 

 

Urinals (Male and Female)

• Handheld, easy-to-use containers for individuals with limited mobility 

• Some come with spill-proof lids for added convenience 

4. Commodes and Toilets

Commode Chairs

• Portable toilets that provide dignity and ease of access for individuals with limited mobility 

See also the Independent Living Bathroom Products Buyers Guide, for more details on commodes and bathroom products.

 

Key Differences between Continence Products

Use the scroll bar below table to move across the table.

Feature	Incontinence Pads	Adult Nappies	Bed Pads	Bed Pan
Absorbency	Light to moderate	Heavy	Varies	N/A
Best for	Light bladder leaks	Heavy incontinence	Protecting furniture/beds	Bedridden users
Reusable	No	No	Yes (some)	Yes
Odor Control	Yes	Yes	No	No
Cost	Low to moderate	Moderate to high	Low to moderate	Low

  Use the scroll bar below table to move across the table.

 

Other Considerations

1. Skin Health & Hygiene

• Frequent use of incontinence products can lead to skin irritation—use barrier creams and gentle wipes. 

• Look for breathable, hypoallergenic materials to prevent rashes or discomfort. 

2. Environmental Impact 

• Disposable products are convenient but create waste. 

• Reusable options like waterproof bed pads and underwear reduce long-term costs and waste. 

3. Additional Accessories 

• Bedside commodes for extra convenience 

• Non-slip absorbent mats for added floor protection 

• Disposable gloves & wipes for caregivers Take a look at our bathroom product buyers guide here:  https://ilsnz.org/blogs/news/bathroom-safety-products-buyers-guide

 

Can I Get Funding

In New Zealand, funding assistance for continence products and bedpans may be available if you are eligible, through:  

1. Ministry of Social Deveopment (MSD) 

• Provides continence product funding for eligible individuals with long-term needs. 

www.govt.nz/browse/health/help-in-your-home/day-to-day-personal-care 

www.msd.govt.nz/what-we-can-do/community/carers/guide-for-carers/people/managing-bladder-and-bowel-control.html 

2. Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) 

• Offers support if incontinence need is injury-related. 

www.acc.co.nz/im-injured/types-of-ongoing-support/aids-equipment 

3. Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) 

• May provide some financial aid for essential continence products. 

www.workandincome.govt.nz/providers/health-and-disability-practitioners/guides/disability-allowance-allowable-costs.html 

4. Charities & Community Organizations 

• Groups like the Cerebral Palsy Society and local disability organizations may provide grants or financial assistance towards disability equipment needed. 

For more information, visit: www.msd.govt.nz/documents/what-we-can-do/community/carers/a-guide-for-carers.pdf 

 

Final Thoughts

The right continence products can enhance dignity, comfort, and quality of life for elderly individuals and those with disabilities. Choosing the best solution depends on absorbency needs, mobility level, and budget. 

If you need help selecting incontinence pads, waterproof bed pads, or a bed pan, then consult a healthcare professional or mobility specialist for their expert advice. 

 

We're here to help

Whether you need help determining the best continence products for you or maybe help with finding and understanding the process of a funding application – we're here to help, with impartial and free advice. We have a huge range of continence products at all price ranges: https://ilsnz.org/collections/continence-products 

Simply visit one of our stores www.ilsnz.org/pages/contact or call us on 0800 625 100.  

Our stores are open:  
Monday-Friday: 9am to 5pm  
Saturday: 9am to 4pm 

And if you would like to treat your continence equipment to a professional UV treated cleaning service to Hospital grade, check out our Equipment Cleaning service: https://ilsnz.org/pages/equipment-cleaning