Disposable Bed Pads and Continence Pads: A Complete Buyer's Guide for NDIS Participants

Managing continence effectively starts with choosing the right products. Disposable bed pads and continence pads are among the most widely used consumables in disability and aged care in Australia. This guide helps participants, carers, and support coordinators make informed purchasing decisions.

Understanding Disposable Bed Pads

Disposable bed pads — also known as underpads, draw sheets, or blueys — are single-use absorbent sheets designed to protect bedding and furniture from moisture. They are placed on the sleep surface or care area to catch fluid from continence episodes.

Why Choose Disposable Bed Pads?

• Eliminate the need for washing soiled linen after every episode

• Reduce laundry load for carers and households

• Maintain hygienic care conditions with each fresh pad

• Convenient for home care, travel, and overnight stays

• Available in bulk packs for cost-efficient high-frequency use

Understanding Continence Pads

Continence pads are wearable products designed to absorb urinary or faecal leakage directly from the body. Unlike disposable bed pads, they are worn by the participant and provide personal, body-level protection.

Types of Continence Pads

• Shaped insert pads — worn inside mesh or stretch pants; suitable for light to moderate leakage

• All-in-one briefs — integrated pad and pant; suitable for moderate to heavy leakage

• Male-specific guards — anatomically shaped for men with light urinary incontinence

• Faecal containment devices — specialised pads for bowel incontinence management

How to Choose Between Disposable Bed Pads and Continence Pads

The right product depends on your specific care needs:

• If leakage occurs during sleep — use both a continence pad and a disposable bed pad for layered protection

• If the participant is mobile and self-managing — a continence pad alone may be sufficient for daytime use

• If bed protection is the primary concern — disposable bed pads are the core product

• For heavy or unpredictable leakage — use both product types together

Absorbency Levels Explained

Both disposable bed pads and continence pads come in varying absorbency levels:

1. Light — for occasional or stress incontinence

2. Moderate — for regular urinary leakage requiring reliable containment

3. Heavy — for frequent, large-volume leakage throughout the day

4. Extra heavy / overnight — for extended wear with maximum fluid protection

Skin Care When Using Disposable Bed Pads and Continence Pads

Prolonged moisture exposure is the leading cause of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). To protect participant skin:

• Change disposable bed pads and continence pads promptly after soiling

• Apply a moisture barrier cream to protect vulnerable skin areas

• Inspect skin at every pad change for redness or breakdown

• Choose pads with stay-dry top layers to minimise skin contact with moisture

NDIS Funding for Disposable Bed Pads and Continence Pads

Disposable bed pads and continence pads are eligible for NDIS funding under Core Supports — Consumables. Participants generally need:

1. A continence assessment from a registered nurse, continence advisor, or allied health professional

2. Documentation of the assessed continence needs and recommended product types

3. Invoices from an NDIS-registered supplier such as Mediply Plus

Order Disposable Bed Pads and Continence Pads from Mediply Plus

Mediply Plus offers a comprehensive range of disposable bed pads and continence pads suitable for all care levels. Our products are selected for quality, comfort, and value — with NDIS participants and carers in mind.

• Competitive bulk pricing on all product ranges

• Fast nationwide delivery across Australia

• NDIS-compliant invoicing for plan managers and participants

• Knowledgeable team available for product support