Racing to the bathroom to beat accidents or experiencing frequent leakage are common issues when dealing with urinary or fecal incontinence. Made to absorb 15 times their weight in water, adult diapers have come a long way since being created in the 1940s. When looking at options for adult diapers, the most important thing is to familiarize yourself with their different parts to better understand how they work.
These carefully engineered products are meant to address various levels of incontinence and feature various absorbency levels, odor control, and leak guards to keep you comfortable and leak-free. Here, we highlight the common parts of a diaper so you can find a product that best fits your incontinence needs.
Breaking Down the Parts of an Adult Diaper
While adult diapers vary greatly in design, from pull-ups to briefs with tabs to belted options, they are each crafted with necessary components to offer the exact protection you or a loved one needs.
Outer Layer (Backsheet)
The backsheet is the outermost top layer of disposable diapers or cloth diapers and comes into direct contact with the wearer’s clothing.
Typically made of waterproof material (such as a thin polyethylene film or a breathable, cloth-like material), the backsheet keeps urine and bowel movements away from clothing and is absorbed into the diaper’s core. This breathable material helps air circulate, reducing skin irritation or diaper rash.
Breathable poly-woven backsheets are becoming increasingly popular since they support healthier skin by allowing better airflow, and are also quieter and more discreet, offering added comfort and dignity for the user.
Absorbent Core
The core of the diaper, or the absorbent core, is what helps you stay dry, hygienic, and comfortable. This layer traps and neutralizes odors, prevents leaks, and provides skin health and greater comfort for those with sensitive skin. It has multiple layers to perform different functions, including:
Superabsorbent Polymers (SAPs): These tiny sodium polyacrylate crystals can absorb many times their weight in liquid and are the key material that determines the diaper's absorbency level. They also help lock fluid away, keeping the user dry and comfortable.
Paper Fluff: Made from wood pulp, these fibers absorb liquid and distribute it throughout the core while supporting the SAPs.
Disbursement Layers: These layers help evenly distribute the liquid throughout the core to prevent any SAPs or pulp from clumping.
Top Sheet (Inner Layer)
As the layer that sits closest to the skin, the top sheet plays a vital role in how the product feels and performs. Because it is made from soft, non-woven, hydrophilic materials like polypropylene or other gentle synthetic fibers, the top sheet is designed to efficiently wick moisture away, helping to keep skin dry and comfortable. This breathable, soothing layer helps reduce irritation and chafing, offering the kind of comfort and protection that users deserve.
Leg Cuffs and Leak Guards
Leg cuffs are elastic bands that fit snugly around the legs to keep the diaper in place. They help prevent leaks by creating a barrier between the leg and the incontinence brief so urine or feces do not seep out. This is especially important for overnight use.
Leak guards are an additional barrier inside the diaper near the leg openings that provide an extra layer of protection against leaks for those with heavy incontinence. These innovative diaper manufacturing features add extra protection to avoid leaks, to help you feel dry and comfortable.
Fastening System (Tabs, Tapes, and Waistbands)
A well-made fastening system helps prevent leaks, ensures a comfortable fit, and contributes to the surrounding environment, such as skin health. Some of the most commonly seen systems are:
Tabs: A tab is an adhesive strip located on the side panels of a diaper and can be refastened, typically with velcro, so that you can make adjustments for a better fit. Tabs are ideal for seniors with limited mobility or dexterity, making changes a cinch for caregivers.
Tapes: Similar to tabs, tapes can be refastened, so you can readjust the fit if needed, but they offer more durability and flexibility than tabs.
Waistbands: To help keep the diaper in place, waistbands are often used in pull-up or underwear style incontinence consumer products. This provides a better, more secure fit while reducing slippage.
Wetness Indicator
Wetness indicators can make every caregiver’s job easier. A wetness indicator is a visual cue on the outside of the diaper to let caregivers know a diaper change is needed. This helps reduce unnecessary changes, protects skin health due to prompt signs it’s time for a change, and keeps the wearer feeling more comfortable and hygienic overall.
Odor Control System
Many disposable diapers incorporate features designed to help manage odors and maintain comfort. Some designs use odor-neutralizing materials such as baking soda or activated charcoal. Having breathable top sheets and backsheets also promotes airflow, which can help reduce odor buildup, and certain diapers may include light fragrances to mask odors.
However, the use of quality Super Absorbent Polymers (SAP) is one of the biggest factors in neutralizing odors. By locking away moisture quickly and effectively, SAP helps limit the conditions that allow odor-causing bacteria to develop, providing a drier, fresher, and more comfortable experience.
How These Products Work Together
Each component of a diaper is carefully designed to work in harmony, providing reliable protection, comfort, and discretion. The absorbent core quickly draws in and locks away liquid to keep the skin dry. Leak barriers help contain moisture and prevent leaks, ensuring confidence and security. Meanwhile, the odor control system works to minimize unwanted smells and promote freshness.
By combining these advanced features, modern diapers enhance overall functionality, making sure users experience maximum comfort, protection, and improved quality of life.
Choosing the Right Diaper Based on Your Needs
Finding the right diaper depends on your level of absorbency needs, comfort, and extra features that improve protection. Here are some things to consider when looking to find the best option for you:
For heavy incontinence: If you suffer from bowel or heavier urinary incontinence, prioritize super absorbent material and leak guards to protect against accidents or leakage.
For sensitive skin: Focus on breathability and top sheet material (natural or hypoallergenic fabrics) and diapers without harmful dyes or irritating materials.
For mobility issues: Focus on getting pull-up diapers for an easy on-and-off change. For those with limited mobility who need help from caregivers, diapers with tabs or tape offer the easiest solution.
For discretion: Opt for cloth-like, thinner materials with limited noise to make sure the incontinence issue stays quiet and discreet as the wearer remains active.
Find the Right Diaper at Parentgiving
At Parentgiving, our goal is to offer premium adult diapers for urinary and fecal incontinence that provide the comfort, protection, durability, and absorbency you need to feel confident every day. From high-absorbency briefs to skincare essentials and caregiving tips, our carefully selected products and expert guidance make managing incontinence easier than ever.
Not sure which product is right for you? Our team can help you find the perfect fit based on your lifestyle and needs. Shop with confidence, knowing that you're getting reliable, top-rated products all in one convenient place.
Click here to explore our collection today and find the right diaper for your comfort and peace of mind!
