How To Care Washable Incontinence Underwear

Although washing incontinence underwear is a pretty simple task, it can still be confusing to someone who has never done it before. But worry not because we have prepared a simple guide for you and some additional care tips to get the best out of your washable incontinence underwear.

Do I Need To Wash My Brand-New Incontinence Underwear Before Wearing Them?

Yes, it's a good idea to wash your brand-new incontinence underwear before wearing them for the first time. This is because the wash before wearing helps the underwear activate its absorbent materials so it can be fully ready when you finally use them. Moreover, washing new underwear is always ideal no matter how clean it may look. It ensures that the underwear is comfortable, functional, and safe to use.

How Do I Wash Reusable Incontinence Underwear?

Washing washable incontinence underwear properly is essential for maintaining its effectiveness and longevity. Follow these steps to ensure your underwear stays in top condition:

Rinse First: Begin by rinsing the underwear to eliminate any leftover urine and dirt. This step is crucial for effective cleaning.

Prepare for Washing: Before placing the underwear in the washing machine, turn it inside out.

Machine Wash: Use warm or cold water (below 40°C) along with a mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric conditioner, as these can diminish the absorbency of the fabric.

Drying Options: After washing, you have two drying options:

Natural Drying: Hang the underwear to dry naturally, which is the gentlest method.

Tumble Dry: If you prefer using a dryer, set it to a low heat (below 40°C).
Proper Storage: Once the underwear is completely dry, store it in a clean and dry place, ready for its next use.

Can I Put Incontinence Underwear in the Dryer?

Yes, you can put your incontinence underwear in the dryer but avoid exposing it to high heat. To ensure that the product will last as long as possible, it's best to air dry or tumble dry it on the lowest heat setting. High heat can weaken its absorbent materials and may cause damage like shrinking and fading.

Additional Care Tips For Your Incontinence Underwear

In addition to following the steps above, here are a few additional care tips to help keep your washable incontinence underwear in great condition:
Avoid ironing your incontinence underwear.
Once again, exposing your washable incontinence underwear to high heat is not a good idea, and for this same reason, ironing it is strongly discouraged. Aside from the damage it will cause to its absorbency, the heat from the iron can also damage the other parts of the underwear, causing it to lose its shape and fit over time. 
Avoid folding your incontinence underwear.
Folding incontinence underwear is not recommended because it can cause creases in the absorbent materials of the underwear. The folds can also create friction and pressure points on the skin, leading to redness and irritation.  
Rinse your incontinence underwear immediately after use.
Taking care of your incontinence underwear doesn't have to be a chore. By simply rinsing your incontinence underwear right away after use, you can prevent unpleasant odors, bacteria growth, and staining. Not only will this keep you feeling fresh and confident, but it'll also make the washing process a breeze.

FAQs on Washing and Caring For Incontinence Underwear

Here are the frequently asked questions (FAQs) that can help you properly take care of your incontinence underwear:
Do I need to wash them separately or can I mix them in with other items?
Well, it's not a must, but it is recommended. Washing incontinence underwear separately ensures it gets a thorough clean, helps preserve its quality, and avoids any cross-contamination with other clothes. However, if you are too busy to do that, your incontinence underwear will be just fine being mixed with other items.
Why can’t I bleach my washable incontinence underwear?
Bleaching your washable incontinence underwear is generally not recommended. The harsh chemicals in bleach can take a toll on the materials in the underwear, breaking them down and weakening them over time. This can reduce the functionality and lifespan of the underwear.

How to Remove Incontinence Underwear’s Odor?

Our premium absorbent underwear has undergone rigorous laboratory testing and has been proven to be odor resistant. You can confidently wear them without worrying about any unpleasant smell. However, a slight stale of odor can still be traced after multiple washes, especially if the underwear is not properly washed and dried. 

If your incontinence underwear has a bad odor,  we recommend adding 1 cup of white vinegar to 3 cups of water and allow the product to soak in this solution for a few minutes. For particularly persistent odors, applying a small amount of baking soda directly to the affected area can also help because it is a natural odor nuetralizer. 

How long does it take to dry incontinence underwear?

Incontinence underwear drying time can vary based on the type of underwear, dryer, and heat setting you have. It usually takes 30 minutes to several hours to dry in a dryer. Air drying is another option that may take several hours or overnight. Turning them inside out will also help them dry more quickly because the outer layer is intended to hold fluids.

How many pairs of incontinence underwear do I need?

The number of incontinence underwear you need depends on many factors such as your daily routine, level of incontinence, and your preference for washing and replacement. Many people who just experience mild incontinence claim that they wear the same pair of underwear without discomfort for a full day. You may want to change them twice a day if your flow is heavier. As a general rule, it's recommended to have three to five pairs of underwear available for rotation so you always have a clean one ready when needed. 

Is incontinence underwear durable?

The durability of incontinence underwear largely depends on the product quality and the user’s care. High-quality incontinence underwear is made of materials designed to handle frequent wear and wash. In fact, our incontinence underwear can last up to 250 washes! To maximize protection, and comfort and extend its life, it's important to follow the care instructions on the label of your underwear.

Is washable incontinence underwear better than disposables?

Washable and disposable incontinence underwear both have pros and cons. Washable is eco-friendly, cost-saving, and good for light to moderate incontinence. Disposables are more convenient, ideal for heavy incontinence or on-the-go. The best option depends on your personal needs, preferences, and lifestyle. You should choose what best fits your needs.