Bariatric Diapers / Biggest Diaper Sizes for Adults

Bariatric Incontinence

Studies show that individuals with larger waists, starting at about 40 inches, are three times more likely than thinner people to experience bladder issues in addition to other medical problems (Wiley, 2012). This may explain the growing need for larger adult diapers. In fact, in a study by Wing et al it was found that, “Weight losses between 5% and 10% of body weight were sufficient for significant urinary incontinence benefits. Thus, weight loss should be considered as initial treatment for incontinence in overweight and obese women (2010)”.

It therefore follows that the larger a person is, the more likely they are to have incontinence - and that bariatric diapers are a very common need among those with obesity issues.

What is a Bariatric Diaper?

In general, bariatric supplies and equipment are intended for individuals weighing 300 lbs or more. These products are designed to be extra large, extra heavy duty and/or extra durable. One example of these specialized items is bariatric incontinence diapers. For adult diapers to be considered bariatric, they will usually have a minimum waist capacity of about 64”.

At AvaCare Medical, we carry a full range of extra large diapers for adults, with standard big diapers for adults ranging from large to extra large and bariatric sizes of 2X, 3X, 4X, and even 5X (which fits a waist size of up to 106”).

Bariatric Diapers Size

With adult diaper sizes ranging from extra small to 5XL, the options can seem overwhelming. Faced with waist options that go all the way from 17.5” to 106 inches, there’s simply no way to guess what size you need. Luckily, the solution is simple: all you need to do is grab a measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of your hip or waist. That measurement should be within the waist range of the product you choose.

So if, for example, your widest waist measurement is 74 inches, you’ll want to find something that includes that measurement. While a 2X diaper may be just too tight (since their waist range is usually about 70” - 73”), a 4X may be too roomy. Even among the products labelled 3X, the exact waist specifications may be different, so try to find something that has a maximum size that closely matches your biggest measurement.

When sizing for large adult diapers, keep in mind that there is no universal sizing for diapers, and a size 2X from one company can be larger than a 3X from another brand, and two products marked respectively as 3X and 4X may feature the same or extremely similar waist ranges. We therefore recommend basing your product choices exclusively on waist measurements rather than sizes.

In addition, since every brand designs their products differently, and every person holds their weight differently, what works for one person may not work for another. In addition, even the best size chart can only tell you so much about how the brief will fit. For this reason, we advise requesting free samples or buying small amounts of several options to find your perfect fit. 

Bariatric Diapers Price

The following chart shows some of the best bariatric diapers available, the maximum waist size they offer, and their approximate price per brief.

When reviewing this chart, keep in mind that prices are also largely dependant on absorbency levels, and a large adult diaper with a low liquid capacity and high waist size may cost less than a diaper with a higher liquid capacity but smaller waist size. When purchasing adult diapers, you generally (though not always) get what you pay for, so be sure to review product specifications and reviews before making your final decision.

*Approximate cost based on prices as of 6/19

Bariatric Diapers Features

The largest adult diapers, designed for plus size users, have certain features that are specifically intended for the comfort of obese individuals with incontinence. For example, many XXL adult diapers (and larger diapers) are equipped with breathable, stretchy sides that ensure that wearers are comfortable, that their skin is well cared for, and that the fit is ideal.

Breathability is specifically important for obese patients since they are more prone to folds of skin where excess moisture can lead to bacteria build up. With microscopic holes that allows body heat to escape while trapping incontinence leaks, breathable bariatric diapers ensure that their skin remains as dry and as healthy as possible.

As always, if you need any help finding the best product for your needs, we’re here for you. Give us a call today at 1-877-813-7799 so we can help you save time, money and aggravation in your search for the best bariatric diapers.

References

Wiley. (2012, July 31). Men with large waists face an increased risk of frequent urination. ScienceDaily.

Wing, R. R., Creasman, J. M., Richter, H. E., Myers, D., Burgio, K. L., Franklin, F., . . . Subak, L. L. (2010, August 01). Improving Urinary Incontinence in Overweight and Obese Women Through Modest Weight Loss.