Learning Center - Bedwetting Underwear
Nighttime Undergarment Protection
Nighttime wetting is a very common problem, affecting up to 7 million children in the United States alone. The good news about this is that there is a myriad of products available to treat and cope with the condition. Absorbent undergarments are an essential part of any treatment program and help your bed wetting child feel comfortable and confident. Here is a quick guide to some terms you'll hear when shopping for bedwetting products:
- Washable briefs: These are absorbent, machine washable, and look just like regular underwear. Choose from styles for girls, boys, teens, and adults.
- Vinyl pants: Two layers of soft cotton house a layer of protective vinyl to keep moisture from leaking. These are made to look like regular underwear and are machine washable. Protective vinyl pants are not absorbent and are designed to be worn over an absorbent brief or disposable pant.
- Disposable briefs: Diapers or pull on diapers are highly absorbent. Kimberly Clark GoodNites and Prevail All Nites are breathable, cloth-like bedwetting pants that are great for nighttime protection and that cut down on your laundry volume. They come in different sizes and designs for girls and boys.
Buying Bedwetting Underwear for Your Child
Bedwetting alarms are an effective way to help your child overcome nighttime wetting, but until she is ready to begin treatment, it's a good idea to use bedwetting underwear to keep her comfortable when wetting does occur. Also, mattresses and bedding are expensive, so it makes sense to protect your investment. Here are some tips for buying nighttime undergarments:
- There are many different styles of protective undergarments out there. Involve your child in her own care by having her pick out her favorite kind or design. Shopping online is a great way to see a variety of products while maintaining her privacy.
- Get accurate measurements of your child's weight and waist size before purchasing. For protective undergarments to be effective, it's very important that they fit well. Some shrinkage will occur in the cotton underwear.
- If your child is older or larger, some adult protective undergarments are available in smaller sizes.
- Washable, reusable underwear can be machine washed and dried. If urine odor remains after washing, a laundry additive, such as OdorZyme can be used.
- Disposable booster pads can be inserted into the underwear to double the absorbency.
