Product Tips

Check the pad manufacturers' websites for fitting guides

Keep a supply of different sizes of pad – larger for long journeys or times when you cannot easily change your pad and smaller pads for when you can change to have a more discreet option

Scented disposal bags can smell as bad as used pads! Try using ordinary small bin bags.

Plastic backed (PE) all-in-one disposable pads are not only more secure but you can also use Duck Tape to add extra security at night when the tapes can peel off when tossing & turning.

Pull-ons fine for every-day underwear, but for days out and longer journeys you can improve the protection they give by adding a disposable booster pad inside and wearing a pair of plastic pants over them for added security.

Waterproof pants are available online in many different styles and can be worn in conjunction with other absorbent products to provide extra security. These include traditional plastic pants and pants made from fabric with a waterproof membrane or coating. Some are available in a variety of colours and patterns or with outer covering for improved appearance.

Waterproof pants can be worn over normal underwear and pad to increase protection and security for longer trips out. If your pad becomes too wet your skirt or trousers will be protected and embarrassing leaks will be avoided.

Washable pads , pants and waterproof pants get a fresh lease of life when air dried outside in the breeze. Don't worry about neighbours seeing your products on the line, provided there are no adult clothes close-by to give away the size.

Washable pants are fine for every-day underwear, but for days out and longer journeys, an unbacked pad worn inside will offer improved protection. Waterproof pants can be worn over them for added security.

I find that using a shorter thicker pad rather than a longer thinner pad gives more protection due to higher absorbency where it is needed.

Stretch pants used with disposable pads can be soaked overnight in a delicate wash for good cleaning and longer lasting

If you use cotton towelling and waterproof pants for night time incontinence then choose pants that come well above the towelling at the waist. The illustration shows the towelling sticking out of the waist of the waterproof pants which would wick onto bedding leading to leaks. The same also applies to any exposed towelling material at the legs elastics.

For longer trips out when your incontinence pad is likely to become heavily wet, waterproof plastic pants worn over your pad provides added security and prevents accidental leaks. If you don't like the idea of plastic pants there are alternatives available that are made from a coated breathable nylon fabric that remains cool and comfortable even in the summer

Oil based skin care products will make plastic pants go hard. Polyurethane pants are more expensive but appear to be unaffected.

Don't be put off using pads and plastic pants for fear of them looking too clinical. There are a wide variety of plastic pants available in different colours and styles nowadays.

I'm a bedwetter with many years’ experience of both disposable and re-usable products. Despite trying numerous different designs, brands and sizes I've never found a disposable that works properly. As a side sleeper they often leak. I find the perfect solution is a washable T-shaped cotton towelling pad worn with plastic pants. A booster pad can be used inside for added absorbency. They are pin-on with lots of scope for adjustment for perfect fit.

Get the plastic-backed rather than the cloth-feel products. They are more waterproof and have a better 'handle' ie smooth on the skin unlike the scratchy cloth-feel products.

Choose translucent or transparent plastic pants rather than opaque so your pad's wetness indicator strip can be easily seen through the front of your waterproof pants to check if the pad needs changing.

Stretch pants supplied for use with disposable pads do not always provide sufficient support to keep the pad in place. Try wearing shaping, full pants that are sufficiently stretchy to hold your wet pad in place. Choose wide crotch pants with a high elastane content for stretch and support available on the high street or on-line in a range of styles.

People diagnosed with Alzeimers may have night time incontinence, and unless closely supervised may forget to use incontinence products at bed time. Useful tip - leave incontinence products with night clothes ready on the bed so they cannot be missed.

Warm summer days are an ideal opportunity to freshen up your washable incontinence wear by giving them a good blow outside on the washing line. Top tip- don't worry about neighbours seeing your products on the line, provided there are no adult clothes close-by to give away the size.

Good quality stretch pants - normally used with disposable pads - are very helpful for supporting and securing all-in-one pads

If you are incontinent and use pads 24/7 personal hygiene is essential to avoid unwanted odours. Removal of pubic hair using either creams or by shaving to a smooth bare finish may allow for easier cleansing.

After a while washable absorbent products and waterproof pants can develop a slight residual odour after laundering. It is worth taking advantage of warm days by pegging them outside on the washing line to blow in the breeze. Hang plastic waterproof pants in a shaded position to prevent harm from direct sunlight.

Plastic waterproof pants can be slightly crinkly when first put on until they soften with body heat. Try keeping them in the airing cupboard. They may also last longer this way with reduced risk of splits and tears.

All-in-one disposable pads with plastic backing are not only more secure but you can use duct tape to add extra security at night, when the tapes can peel off when tossing & turning.

I have been wearing all-in-ones for over four years. My advice is don't worry about the tape on briefs looking like a diaper. If you need them you need them. If you’re still active don't trust the tapes - I always reinforce them with duct tape. Use white tape as it is less noticeable. By doing this you ensure a snug fit to reduce sagging and leaks with the tape.

With cotton towelling worn with plastic pants your instinct is to choose close-fitting waterproof pants that look neat and tidy. Instead try plastic pants that are at least a size larger than you would normally wear. They may puff up a bit, but the larger size will ensure that the towelling when wet is well covered at the waist and legs, eliminating leaks from wicking. Leg and waist elastic are much more comfy too.

The absorbency of cotton terry towelling can be boosted by placing a disposable soaker pad inside. Pin the towelling good and tight to keep it close to your body. This set up is only as good as good as your plastic pants . Make sure they are a generous fit that completely covers the towelling. The waterproof pants may puff out when you sit but that shows the fit is OK. You should enjoy a good nights sleep.

Use small pads with an adhesive backing if you are doing an activity such as running (but make sure you wear close fitting pants to avoid the pad moving around)

Pull-ons are great for daytime if you have some control & can sometimes make it to the toilet. If you are often unable to get to the toilet in time, an all in one pad (diaper) will give the best fit and protection.

Disposable leafs don’t stick that good especially if you move, need to hold in place with close fitting pants.

Don't be put off using washable incontinence pants if you experience leaks when out and about. They are easier to walk in than the alternative terry diapers and plastic pants or disposable pads. Try inserting an unbacked pad for additional capacity and a pair of plastic pants worn over them will give great protection.

Washable pants are hard to buy, but I would use again.

All-in-one pads are great at night, but if you do get a bit of leakage you can always wear plastic pants over the top of them.

Soak stretch pants used with disposable pads overnight in a delicate wash for good cleaning and longer lasting

You can wear plastic pants over the top of disposable products for long car journeys in case you can't get to a toilet in time.

A T-shaped cotton towelling pad eliminates the unnecessary bulk of a square terry pad and is easier to pin on with a single pin because of the reduced thickness. Extra absorbancy can be provided at the front with either folded towelling inserted in the front pocket, or by a disposable unbacked pad.

If you don’t have a washing machine, rinse used washable pads before taking them to the launderette

If provided with cheap net support pants for use with disposable pads try wearing 2 or three at once. Additional support greatly improves efficiency of pads.

All-in-one pads at nighttime are the only disposable solution for many men. In The UK the continence service offers usually one manufacturer and these pads differ greatly between manufacturers. Some are stretchy, some plastic backed, others breathable, different absorbency, different distribution of pulp. If yours is not satisfactory try to make a case for an alternative but do so based on evidence. Some distributors will sell samples in ones and twos so you can find the best for you.

With cotton towelling worn with plastic pants your instinct is to choose close-fitting waterproof pants that look neat and tidy. Instead try plastic pants that are at least a size larger than you would normally wear. They may puff up a bit, but the larger size will ensure that the towelling when wet is well covered at the waist and legs, eliminating leaks from wicking. Leg and waist elastic are much more comfy too. Plastic pants from the 'Incontinence Shop' are excellent.

Large disposable pads are less likely to leak if held firmly against the body, therefore wear sleeveless all in one incontinence vest (body stocking) that fastens at the crotch with poppers. Will also stop pad sagging and slipping and hide what you are wearing when bending over or trousers slip. Make sure poppers have at least 4 inch spread, otherwise pad slips to side. Not suitable without adaptation or help if difficulty bending to pull up and fasten flap.

If using plastic pants, buy with a double leg seal as they have a strong tendency to leak at the leg seam.

All-in-ones can be embarrassing, but if you get the right size and fit they work well. It's an OK trade-off in my opinion. I live with severe incontinence and it is OK.

Don't be put off using pads and plastic pants for fear of them looking too clinical. There are a wide variety of plastic pants available in different colours and styles nowadays.

If you use cotton towelling and waterproof pants for night time incontinence then choose pants that come well above the towelling at the waist. The illustration shows the towelling sticking out of the waist of the waterproof pants which would wick onto bedding leading to leaks. The same also applies to any exposed towelling material at the legs elastics.

Washable incontinence pants can offer a variety of levels of protection depending on your situation and needs on a particular day. For every day, wear as they are, for increased protection slide in a disposable soaker pad and for top protection pop a pair of waterproof plastic pants on over them to eliminate risk of leaks by heavy wetters

The absorbency of cotton terry towelling can be boosted by placing a disposable soaker pad inside. Pin the towelling good and tight to keep it close to your body. This set up is only as good as good as your plastic pants . Make sure they are a generous fit that completely covers the towelling. The waterproof pants may puff out when you sit but that shows the fit is OK. You should enjoy a good nights sleep.

Try to get the plastic or PE backed all-in-one disposable pads. They are smoother, without the scratchy surface of the cloth-feel types and are more waterproof.

People diagnosed with Alzeimers may have night time incontinence, and unless closely supervised may forget to use incontinence products at bed time. Useful tip - leave incontinence products with night clothes ready on the bed so they cannot be missed.

Changing all-in-ones in a public cubical standing isn't exactly ideal but usually possible if you lean against the wall to hold the back of the pad in place whilst fitting the front. Ideal when you absolutely cannot afford to have even the smallest leak or on journeys to unfamiliar places, the trade off is the bulk and inconvenience of changes.

Being very active, I find large disposable pads are only any good for night time and rainy days in. Trouble is regardless of which pants I use to fix these, after moving around a bit the front edges tend to scrunch or curl over slightly meaning once they are wet a part of the pad is touching the stretch pants, despite feeling dry and confident I find I have two massive wet spots either side of my groin - also at the perfect height to soak what ever is in my pockets. All-in-ones are better but have their own issues.

Always carry a spare incontinence product with you when away from home to avoid leaking.

I find all-in-one pads bulky but comfortable and can wear for a long time while at home, but pull-ons are more discreet if going out.

Even if you prefer pull-up style pants , belted pads can be useful for a change when out in public. After tearing away the sides of a pull up, the belted pad can be fitted without removing trousers.

You may be able to use a smaller size belted pad and get a closer fit than in the image on this page. These pads are very easy to fit, unlike taped all in ones. They can also be adjusted easily, or quickly removed (if you make it in time! ) as most have velcro fastenings.

If you wear plastic pants over your incontinence pad for extra security when out and about choose translucent or transparent plastic pants rather than opaque so your pad's wetness indicator strip can be easily seen through the front of your waterproof pants to show that you are wet and might need a pad change. This avoids having to look down the front of your pants without the need to disturb them.

All-in-one disposable pads with plastic backing are not only more secure but you can use duct tape to add extra security at night, when the tapes can peel off when tossing & turning.

Shaped pads and net pants are better during the day as they are cooler to wear than all-in-one pads

I find disposable pads are slimmer and therefore more discreet for day use

Shaped disposable pads are are easy to fit and use when going to the loo.

Used with large disposable pads, fine mesh pants keep their shape longer than net pants. Wash on cool temperatures to reduce risk of shrinking

Try to get the plastic or PE backed all-in-one disposable pads. They are smoother, without the scratchy surface of the cloth-feel types and are more waterproof.

If you soil yourself in an all-in-one pad do not worry too much about others noticing - it takes some time for any odour to become noticeable to others. While you may be able to notice it sooner others will not.

Changing all-in-ones in a public cubical standing isn't exactly ideal but usually possible if you lean against the wall to hold the back of the pad in place whilst fitting the front. Ideal when you absolutely cannot afford to have even the smallest leak or on journeys to unfamiliar places, the trade off is the bulk and inconvenience of changes.

If you are bowel incontinent, use a barrier cream on your butt (bottom, buttocks) and between your legs as it will help protect your skin when you have a bowel movement (but make sure the cream has been absorbed before putting on the pad)

Pull-on pants are a relatively discreet pad when doing sport e.g. golf

I have been wearing all-in-ones for over four years. My advice is don't worry about the tape on briefs looking like a diaper. If you need them you need them. If you’re still active don't trust the tapes - I always reinforce them with duct tape. Use white tape as it is less noticeable. By doing this you ensure a snug fit to reduce sagging and leaks with the tape.

Good quality stretch pants - normally used with disposable pads - are very helpful for supporting and securing all-in-one pads

Waterproof plastic pants with adjustable leg elastic offer excellent containment when worn in conjunction with Terry towelling all in one's as can be adjusted to suit.

Don't be put off using cloth diapers and plastic pants, yes it feels babyish to start but they are very good incontinence wear. Make sure your plastic pants have plenty of room & fully cover the diaper.

Plastic pants are great for more protection, keep smells in, just make sure your absorbent pad is contained within the pants.

I was given some sheath samples without any instructions. I found useful guidance on the internet (youtube)

Sheaths tend to fall off, not just a matter of fitting the right size as penis is often a different size when applying sheath to later in day (i.e. semi-erect when applying, but much smaller when out in the cold).

I wear a body-worn urinal. To help in putting the device on my wife made me a lycra sleeve about 6" long which is a snug fit over my penis, attached to a narrow tape, 12" long. I roll the lycra sleeve over my penis like a condom and thread the tape through the urinal. I then slide the urinal up the tape until the tip of my penis is about to enter the urinal. I then hold the urinal against the end of my penis, I pull gently on the tape. This pulls my penis effortlessly into the urinal.

To prevent chafing of my scrotum by the groin straps I wear my body-worn urinal over an elasticated scrotal support.

Use a catheter retainer strap, it stops the sheath kinking and blowing off – place over junction of sheath and bag

A body-worn urinal is good for going out as nothing to change, snug fit and can be worn sitting and standing

Have a range of product designs to suit your needs for different activities e.g. a clamp is useful for swimming.

Use a modified sheath/ petal device (if you have penile retraction) with a leg bag and support garment for long car journeys and long walks

Using skin protector wipes (available from sheath manufacturers) may help protect the skin and improve adhesion.

Stand over toilet or bidet when removing sheath - so drips go in loo or bidet

It can be easier to fit a sheath to an erect or semi-erect penis.

Adhesive from a sheath can be difficult to remove from the skin – adhesive remover can help with this.

A small piece of cloth placed around the base of the penis between the sheath and underpants is useful if the adhesive is exposed.

A clamp can be useful while you are preparing to fit other products or during product change.

A clamp can be useful for short periods of time, for example, when getting up to make a tea in the morning.

Wearing a clamp can be uncomfortable if tight enough to completely prevent leakage. You could try keeping the clamp loose enough for comfort and wear with a small pad as "back up".

By wearing a clamp you may be able to use a smaller pad and use fewer pads during a day

For swimming try disconnecting the leg bag from the sheath and leaving the sheath open. A clamp over the sheath can give you time to get changed.

For non-absorbent product like sheaths, wrap in paper first before placing in a bin liner to absorb any drips.

I use a sheet of kitchen paper to ensure complete dryness when a sheath is fitted

If using a skin protector, it's often best to use the same manufacturer of both the skin protector and the sheath.

Being circumcised is a great help for keeping them on all day. A pop on modified sheath is best for short penis as adhesive sticks to glans.

I use a body-worn urinal. The point at which the bag joins the drain tube is a weakness (over time movement causes it to crack and leak) and I strengthen this with duck tape.

I am uncircumcised and have no difficulty keeping the sheath on. It is wise, however, to check your tube connections at least twice a day to make sure they are fastened securely. I check mine around noon and then again right before I go to bed. I do wear mine at night. I change sheaths and cleanse my leg bag right after my morning shower. I have a brand new blog for the exchange of information among sheath wearers and would like you to check it out: www.concath.weebly.com

Remember to check your sheath it is fitted well to your penis and empty bag when full

Always release the clamp over the toilet or into a urinal as urine will have collected

I use a silicone reusable sheath, which has lasted for over a year. I remove & wash once a day, giving skin a break. Works for my 27 mm small penis

Correct fit can be the difference between success and failure with a body-worn urinal. Size can change over time and a reassessment may be beneficial.

I have worn a body-worn urinal for a year now with a direct flow bag on my thigh. I wear it on top of knee length under pants which has a fly opening, this stops the straps chaffing between my legs. I use a non sting barrier cream on the underside of my penis which does get sore after a few days, then I swoop the body-worn urinal for a external sheath which I wear for 24hrs to give my penis a chance to recover

I struggled for 8 years with his problem, so I developed my own body-worn urinal, I had extreme difficulty attaching the condom catheter/sheath to my penis, in fact when the urine bag begins filling up the attachment fails so I modified a standard male jock-strap for my waist size and attached a removable sheath/capture cup which is then attached to a drain bag, it works well for me even during sleeping,

To avoid soreness from the body-worn urinal's latex straps in my groin I use a pair of tight briefs into which I cut a 1" dia. hole. My penis goes through the hole and then I wear the BWU on top.

I stick the mirror I use for intermittent catheterisation to the toilet seat with microporous tape to secure it. It's easy to remove after. I always wash the mirror afterwards.

Look for intermittent catheters with smooth eyes

Use compact type intermittent catheters when away from home e.g. at work.

If you have an indwelling catheter with a valve and you are going out for the day, connect it to a leg bag with a catheter retaining strap. When your bladder gets full you can empty in to the bag and then find a loo.

You can use a catheter valve with an indwelling catheter, but have a bag on when you’re out. If your bladder starts to spasm because it’s full you can open the valve and pass urine into the bag.

If you use intermittent catheters that need water for lubrication, take a bottle of water with you when away from home. It may also be useful to bring a small towel for washing hands/genitals.

When doing intermittent catheterisation away from home you may need to take a small towel with you for washing hands/genitals

If you use water for intermittent catheterisation and you are flying, you may not be allowed to take your own water through security. A doctor’s letter can help with this but even that may not work! Allow plenty of time at the airport to purchase bottled water on the flight side of security.

A small travel kettle may be useful if you wish to use boiled water for intermittent catheterisation

Intermittent catheters can be disposed of using scented disposal bags (the sort used for disposing of feminine hygiene products or babies’ diapers).

Some places use low energy light (which may not be as bright) be prepared for this and take a torch if you need light for intermittent catheterisation or ask for a standard light bulb

When performing intermittent catheterisation, I have found that extra urine flows at the end of the process by leaning backwards then forwards when standing. Experiment for yourself and I hope it works for you.

Lift up the toilet seat and lower your trousers and pants before washing your hands to begin with before performing intermittent catheterisation. I wipe down there with an anti-bacterial wipe before inserting. Ask your gp for a radar key.

If you have an indwelling catheter try wearing open crotch knickers that allow easier positioning of your catheter, also stockings worn with a suspender belt are less restricting than tights

For males who experience discomfort from an indwelling catheter moving about and rubbing the urethra, close fitting underwear can be the answer. Choose wide crotch pants with a high elastane content for stretch and support available from a well know retailer or on-line in a range of styles.

If you are having difficulty inserting an intermittent catheter at the entry point of your bladder don't force it! Instead, wiggle your toes. I know this sounds strange but it's the best advice I was given.

When travelling overseas - some catheter companies have a travel certificate (Medical Validation Certificate) that you can easily download from their website and fill in to use for customs staff or TSA officials at airports.

Not all intermittent catheters are made of PVC. There are more environmentally friendly catheters available that are PVC and phthalate free. They are POBE: Polyolefin based elastomer.

Shake an intermittent catheter a bit before removing it. Sometimes a few extra drops of urine will come out.

If catheterised with an indwelling catheter when sitting on the toilet there is a risk of the catheter tube dropping into the toilet pan and contacting unclean surfaces. Wearing stockings and suspenders allows you to loop the catheter through a suspender strap and through the lacy suspender belt at the waist if necessary, keeping the catheter tube close to your body and away from unclean surfaces. A lacy suspender belt with lace top stockings gives a pretty appearance appreciated by partners.

If tubing is long enough to reach the ankle it is easy to empty a leg bag without removing trousers

Make sure that the large capacity night bag is lower than you are if using in bed at night

If the large capacity night bag tubing is long enough you are able to move in your sleep without too much discomfort!

When selecting a leg bag, consider leg shape, tubing length, strap style and position of bag on the leg.

Night bag – use disposable night bags if you can’t/don’t want to wash – rip off the corner

Stands are usually available free to use with large capacity night bags. If you do not have a stand you can use two wire coat hangers between the mattress and base of bed to support the night bag.

Use different straps and support garments depending on where on the leg the leg bag is situated e.g. leg bag garment holder on calf and straps on the thigh

When wearing shorts use a thigh bag or catheter valve

Leg bag tubing can be cut to different lengths. Experiment with different lengths of inlet tubing to suit your needs

Experiment to find the best position for your leg bag - I alternate between legs to avoid any sores or aggravating cuts and bruises.

When wearing a leg bag, use tubing supports to secure the tubing where you want it. For example, down the side of the leg rather than in front of the leg.

Rinsing out leg bags when away from home can be hard to do discreetly. Plan to rinse them in the bathroom but then have them to dry in your bedroom.

Use different leg bag volumes according to your needs e.g. if going out and unsure of toilet facilities you could use a larger bag,

To cleanse my leg bag, I place a few drops of dishwashing detergent in the top opening, then fill the lavatory with warm water and use a turkey baster with a rubber bulb on the end to shoot the warm water into the bag. I shake the bag well and do the procedure again. I now have a clean fresh smelling bag.

I struggled with a variety of leg bags with my indwelling catheter. The tube twists and pulls the bag down the leg when walking. Try a bag worn round the waist. Which is a urine bag worn round the waist with a belt. It is very comfortable and allows you to walk, or do sport while your bladder drains comfortably into the bag. The best feature is that you can stand at a urinal and 'pee' normally by opening the twist valve on the bag. No-one is aware that you are using the bag.

When you have emptied your large capacity night bag, what to do with the long length of tube? Fit the dust cover and loop it once round the top inlet of the bag. Then wedge it into the back of one of the concave uprights. NB. This works well with a flat-pack-bag-stand,

When you have emptied your night bag, what to do with the long length of tube? Fit the dust cover and loop the tube once round the top inlet of the bag. Then wedge it into the back of one of the concave uprights.

I use regular diapers. But they are expensive. I have no rectum and I just had ileostomy reversal. So my tip is to use two paper tissues in my diaper so I save money and troubles. I don't need to carry diapers around. Just wipes and paper tissues!

I have been using some unbacked, maxi pads in my Depends. Its easier than trying to change an all-in-one, wrap-around product somewhere other than home!

Consider using super-absorbent gel in the base of a handheld urinal for women to avoid spillage after use.

Consider having a ring of plastic covered soft foam - in a horseshoe shape - to put around the seat of a chair commode pan to cushion a person for whom a hard edge beneath them is painful..

Paediatric sized commodes are available, and they may be worth considering if you have limited space in your bathroom or of slight build

Bedpans with pointed ends can be easier to insert

A small jug from a kitchenware shop - capacity approx 2 cups - can be a very useful alternative to a handheld urinal. With Parkinsons I can have difficulty getting to the. toilet at night. My first buy was a green straight-sided melamine jug with a lipped edge and moulded handle. But even better is the 2-cup squeezable silicon jug made for kitchen use by a major brand. It fits tightly to the body, is comfortable and quiet to use and is pleasantly styled. No lid of course, and must be emptied after each use, but really handy.

If you do not soil the bed for several nights, disposable underpads can be reused for about one week before they become too creased and “manky”.

If you leak urine in your sleep it makes sense to use a waterproof mattress protector just in case bodyworn products leak – fleece covering on the upper side looks and feels normal

If you are a restless sleeper or sleep on your side, use a washable underpad and/or waterproof mattress protector in case body-worn disposable pads are insufficient.

Washable underpads are a must. Worth shopping around especially if you prefer white. Try double size lengthwise on the bed. Not only absorbs more and stops liquid creeping off edge but also holds pad in place by additional body contact.

An absorbent bath mat with a rubber backing can be useful as a makeshift washable underpad

When you are incontinent it is important to use a good quality waterproof mattress protector under your sheet, the larger the better.

If you have bladder leakage at night you can protect your bed with a waterproof mattress protector and washable underpads. Your duvet and pillow can be placed in pvc fitted covers that are undetectable when the fabric outer covers are added. Your bed and duvet will remain clean and dry leaving just the sheet and outer cover to wash.

Sometime even the best pads or waterproof pants will leak around the leg bands. Prolonged sitting can lead to dampness leaking at the back of the legs which you may not be aware of until you stand up. You can protect furniture with washable underpads in a range of attractive designs.

Cut old towels up into small squares and take one for each day with you when travelling. You can then thoroughly clean yourself and throw them away.

Singlet-like bodysuits or “onesies” are great for holding pads in place, they also prevent pads sticking out of your trousers when bending or stretching.

I find antifungal soaps/cleansers helpful in controlling skin irritations, also medicated powder.

Singlet-like bodysuits or “onesies” - vêtementet très confortable, idéale pour le maintient des couches incontinence,

Using spandex type shorts will enable you to limit the noise from any brief or incontinence product and support said product close to your body

If you are incontinent and use pads 24/7 personal hygiene is essential to avoid unwanted odours. Removal of pubic hair using either creams or by shaving to a smooth bare finish may allow for easier cleansing.

I had embarrassing moments due to clothing. Climbing down from a loft ladder at work. My shirt snagged and pulled up to reveal the top of my incontinence pad and plastic pants above the waist of my trousers in plain view of the client. On another occasion bending down to tie my shoe in a shop and heard a parson remark on my plastic pants and nappy where my short had ridden up at the back. Choose shirts that are long in the body to tuck in well, onesies have press-stud crotch to prevent ride up.

I suffer from Crohn's disease and have the occasional'accident'. I have access to a food vacuum sealing machine and put a few medicated wipes, toilet paper, spare underpants in small plastic bags and then vacuum seal the lot inside the usual sleeving. The resultant package is about 6" x 4" x 0.5" and slips inside a coat pocket. I also keep one in the car

Plastic waterproof pants can be slightly crinkly when first put on until they soften with body heat. Try keeping them in the airing cupboard. They may also last longer this way with reduced risk of splits and tears.

Swimwear, especially containment swim briefs, can be occasionally soaked in Borax (inexpensive and found in the laundry aisle) between regular washings to remove any lingering odour. Then just rewash and hang to dry.

When starting daytime wetting smaller pads are not noticeable under clothes, but as I began wetting heavily with full bladder loss I need to wear large disposable pads and then terry diapers with a soaker pad and waterproof plastic pants. The increased bulk was noticeable beneath outer clothes. Gradually increase the capacity and size of pads and nappies over a period of months, moving up a clothes size so friends and family are unaware of any sudden change in body image due to the diapers.

To avoid odours, don’t keep used pads indoors. They always smell and the smell gets worse with time. Double bagging makes little difference. And, once established the smell lingers. The effort to take each used pad immediately outside is well worth it.

Check the pad manufacturers' websites for fitting guides

Keep a supply of different sizes of pad – larger for long journeys or times when you cannot easily change your pad and smaller pads for when you can change to have a more discreet option

Scented disposal bags can smell as bad as used pads! Try using ordinary small bin bags.

Plastic backed (PE) all-in-one disposable pads are not only more secure but you can also use Duck Tape to add extra security at night when the tapes can peel off when tossing & turning.

For All-in-one pads put a little powder around the top of the legs after securing, to stop any chafing.

Don’t be put off using an all in one product if you experience heavier incontinence because they “look like a nappy”, under most clothes like jeans, they aren’t as visible as you think, and they are much easier to change than a pull up when out and about because they don’t require the removal of your shoes and trousers, this is also true of large shaped pads and the belted style products if all in ones don’t work for you.

A urine director is useful first thing in the morning if you have a retracted penis to remove any residual urine from the bladder that may be present before putting on daytime protection.