How to Choose the Right Incontinence Aid (Brief, Pants or Insert)

28/10/2025

How to Choose the Right Incontinence Aid (Brief, Pants or Insert)

When it comes to managing incontinence, the right product can make all the difference. Comfort, dignity, and confidence all start with finding the right fit and absorbency for your needs.

With so many products available, it can be tricky to know where to begin: briefs, pull-ups, inserts… what’s the difference?

Here’s a quick guide from Valui Healthcare to help you choose the best option for yourself, a loved one, or a resident.

1. Briefs (All-in-One Aids)

Best for:

  • Moderate to heavy urinary or fecal incontinence

  • Overnight protection

  • People with limited mobility or who need carer assistance

Features:

  • Strong side tabs for easy changes in bed or standing

  • Snug, secure fit for maximum leakage protection

  • Highly absorbent dual-core that keeps skin dry overnight

Why choose briefs:
Briefs provide the highest level of absorbency and containment, making them ideal for extended wear, fecal incontinence, or users requiring full assistance.

Tip: In aged-care or hospital settings, briefs are often preferred for their secure fit, easy-change design, and superior containment.

2. Pants (Pull-ups)

Best for:

  • Light to moderate urinary incontinence

  • Active, mobile individuals

  • Daytime confidence and discretion

Features:

  • Soft, stretch-to-fit waistband - looks and feels like underwear

  • Easy to pull on and off for independent users

  • Breathable materials for all-day comfort

Why choose pull-ups:
Pull-ups combine freedom and protection, offering a natural underwear-like feel with dependable absorbency. They’re ideal for anyone who wants to stay active, mobile, and independent.

Tip: Use pull-ups during the day and switch to briefs overnight for extended protection.

3. Inserts

Best for:

  • Light to moderate urinary incontinence (varies by size)

  • Smaller sizes for light leaks

  • Larger sizes for heavier urinary loss

  • Independent users seeking discreet daytime protection

Features:

  • Slim, contoured design for comfort and discretion

  • Waterproof backing to prevent leaks when worn alone

  • Adhesive strip on smaller sizes for secure placement in underwear

  • Breathable and gentle against the skin

  • Designed only for urinary incontinence, not recommended for fecal incontinence

Why choose inserts:
Inserts are designed for independent use - perfect for light to heavy urinary incontinence depending on the size chosen. They provide targeted protection without the bulk of a full brief or pull-up, offering comfort and flexibility throughout the day.

Tip: Use inserts with Valui net pants or your own fitted underwear for a snug, discreet fit.

4. Booster Pads

Best for:

  • Increasing absorbency of other products (briefs or pull-ups)

  • Overnight use or extended wear

  • Individuals needing extra protection without a full product change

Features:

  • No waterproof backing which allows fluid to pass through to the main product

  • Adds absorbency and reduces the need for full product changes

  • Soft, thin design prevents bulkiness while maintaining comfort

Why choose booster pads:
Boosters are the perfect “top-up” layer for added security, especially during long shifts, travel, or overnight wear. They enhance absorbency efficiently and make continence care more economical and practical.

Tip: Always place booster pads flat inside the main product to prevent leaks or bunching.

Choosing What’s Right for You

When deciding, consider:

  • Level of absorbency needed (light, moderate, or heavy)

  • Mobility and independence (self-changing vs assisted)

  • Time of day (daytime vs overnight needs)

  • Comfort and discretion preferences

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, many people use a combination of products depending on their daily routine.

The Valui Difference

At Valui Healthcare, we design continence products that combine performance, comfort, and dignity.
From high-absorbency briefs and comfortable pull-ups to flexible inserts and absorbency-boosting pads, every product is made for reliable protection and skin-friendly comfort.

Because confidence shouldn’t end with continence.

Explore Valui’s full range of briefs, pull-ups, and inserts designed for reliable protection and all-day comfort - www.valui.com.au