How to Choose the Right Booster Pad: Absorbency, Shape & Fit

Finding the right combination of incontinence products can sometimes be a challenge. You may have an adult diaper or protective underwear that works well during the day, but find yourself needing a little extra protection overnight, while travelling, or between changes.

That's where booster pads can help! But with different absorbency levels, shapes and sizes available, how do you know which one is right for you?

We've put together this guide to help you understand the key differences between booster pads and find the best option for your needs.

1. What Booster Pad Absorbency Level Do You Need?

At Healthwick, we categorize our booster pads by absorbency level to help make choosing easier.

Light to Moderate Absorbency - Light to moderate booster pads are a great option if you need a little extra security between changes without adding unnecessary bulk. These are often a good choice for daytime wear, particularly if your current adult diaper or protective underwear works well but could benefit from some additional absorbency.

	Tranquility TopLiner Mini Booster Pads Adds light, discreet absorbency to existing incontinence garments. Flow-through design enhances host garment performance without bulk. Reduces leakage, odour, and skin irritation for improved comfort. Easy to use, change, and dispose of throughout the day. Adhesive strip keeps the pad securely in place. Latex-free and gentle on delicate skin.
	Tranquility TopLiner Super Booster Pads Flow-through design boosts absorbency of host garments without replacing them. Suitable for both urinary and fecal incontinence management. Helps prevent leakage, odour, and skin irritation. Latex-free and designed for easy daily use.

Heavy to Maximum Absorbency - For heavier leakage, overnight use, or extended periods between changes, a higher-absorbency booster pad may be the better choice. These products provide additional capacity when your primary incontinence product needs some extra support.

	NorthShore EternaDry Booster Pads Flow-through core prevents overflow and leakage Breathable materials reduce heat build-up and skin irritation Lightweight and discreet for comfort under clothing Hypoallergenic and free of latex for sensitive users
	InControl Booster Pads - Unscented Flow-through design boosts absorbency of host garments without replacing them. Suitable for both urinary and fecal incontinence management. Helps prevent leakage, odour, and skin irritation. Latex-free and designed for easy daily use.

Healthwick Tip: If you're unsure which absorbency level to choose, think about when you experience the most leakage. A lighter booster may be suitable for daytime use, while heavier absorbency could be more helpful overnight.

2. Should You Choose a Rectangular or Contoured Booster Pad?

Rectangular Booster Pads - Rectangular booster pads have a straight, narrow design that fits inside many adult diapers and protective underwear products.
Their slimmer shape can make them a comfortable and discreet option for active individuals or anyone who prefers less bulk under clothing.

Contoured Booster Pads - Contoured booster pads have an hourglass or figure-eight shape, with wider sections at the front and back. This design provides broader coverage across the absorbent area and may be especially helpful for wheelchair users, side sleepers, or individuals who need extra protection toward the front or back of their brief.

Healthwick Tip: Consider where you need the most coverage when choosing a booster pad shape. Rectangular pads may be a better fit for everyday comfort, while contoured pads provide additional coverage in specific areas.

3. How Should You Position Your Booster Pad for the Best Protection?

Even with the right absorbency level and shape, where you position your booster pad can make a difference.
The goal is to place the pad where extra absorbency is needed most while ensuring it lies flat inside your primary absorbent product.

Here are a few positioning suggestions from Healthwick's Customer Care team:

• For side sleepers: Try positioning the booster pad slightly off-centre toward the side you sleep on. This may help provide additional absorbency where liquid tends to travel while lying on your side.
• For men: Positioning the booster pad slightly higher toward the front of the brief may help provide additional protection where leakage commonly occurs.
• For women: Placing the booster pad along the centre of the brief's absorbent core may help provide more even coverage.
  

Healthwick Tip: Make sure your booster pad lies flat and doesn't interfere with the leg guards of your adult diaper or protective underwear. A proper fit is just as important as extra absorbency!

4. Can You Use a Regular Incontinence Pad Instead of a Booster Pad?

One common mistake is placing a regular incontinence pad inside an adult diaper or protective underwear to increase absorbency. While they may look similar, these two products work differently.

Regular incontinence pads have a waterproof backing designed to stop liquid from passing through. When placed inside another absorbent product, this backing can prevent liquid from reaching the diaper or underwear underneath, potentially causing leaks around the sides.

Booster pads, on the other hand, have a flow-through design. Once the booster reaches capacity, liquid can pass through into the primary absorbent product.

That's why it's important to choose a product specifically designed as a booster pad when looking to increase the absorbency of your current incontinence product.

Healthwick Tip: Want to learn more about how booster pads work? Check out our guide to booster pads and their benefits.

Choosing the right booster pad comes down to finding the absorbency level, shape and fit that best suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a little extra daytime protection or additional overnight absorbency, the right combination can help you feel more comfortable and confident.

Have questions about which booster pad is right for you? Healthwick's Customer Care team is always here to help you explore your options. Click here to get in touch.

Take Care!