Bedding Protection

Bedding Protection Products at Walgreens

Incontinence is an embarrassing problem for those who suffer from it, and it can be a frustrating and a challenging one for caregivers as well. Accidents due to poor bladder control are common during the night in adults and children alike. If you suffer from incontinence or are caring for a family member with bladder control issues, using bedding protection products can help reduce some of your stress.

The Challenges of Incontinence at Night

There are many reasons why incontinence issues often occur at night. In children, bedwetting often happens because children sleep too soundly and do not awaken when they need to urinate. Adults with limited mobility may find it difficult to get out of bed to make it to the bathroom in time in the middle of the night, and those who require assistance with toileting may be unable to awaken a caregiver in time.

The Need for Mattress Protection

No matter what the cause of an accident, if urine comes in contact with the mattress, it can be difficult to remove it. Urine often leaves unsightly stains and odors that can linger even with professional cleaning. Using pads to protect the mattress from urine can help prevent these types of problems, so that following an accident, the sheets can simply be removed and laundered without worry about the mattress.

Reusable Pads for Bed Protection

One popular type of protection for bedding is the reusable absorbent pad. Usually made out of fabric, these pads are placed underneath the fitted sheet on top of the mattress. When an accident occurs, the pad locks away wetness and decreases the chances of it reaching the mattress. Pads come in many different sizes and thicknesses. After an accident, the pad should be kept in a sealed plastic container if it cannot be laundered immediately.

Disposable Pads for Bed Protection

If you don't want to deal with washing wet underpads along with wet bedding, disposable bedding protection is a convenient alternative. Made from materials similar to those used for protective liners for incontinence, these pads are absorbent and designed for disposal after an accident. Because these pads are not as durable as the reusable variety, they may need to be thrown away frequently even if no accidents occur, as they can bunch up and become wrinkled from a person's movements during the night. When throwing away a disposable pad, be sure to place it inside of a seal-able plastic bag.

Mattress Protectors for the Bed

Mattress protectors are another form of protection for bedding. Instead of a pad, a protector is a sheet-like cover or a zippered bag that is placed over the mattress. You can use a protector with pads for extra protection or on its own. Always place the protector underneath the fitted sheet on the bed, as these covers can irritate the skin.

If you have or your loved one has only recently begun to develop problems with incontinence at night or bedwetting, be sure to discuss the matter with your doctor. There may be a new condition responsible for the symptom that requires diagnosis and medical treatment.