What are Adult Diapers Made of?

Adult Diapers, as with all adult incontinence products, are made from materials that have been bonded together so that liquids are wicked away from the wearers skin and held in a "core" until changing. The goal is to provide the wearer dry and healthy skin to avoid other more serious conditions including rashes or pressure sores (bed sores). 

Technology used in the design and creation of adult incontinence products are always evolving and changing. These changes have allowed new materials and absorbent materials to make products thinner, yet absorb and retain more fluid. Material and technology improvements have also decreased urinary incontinence odors. 

The ultimate goal is to ensure wearer comfort and health. Sometimes understanding the terminology used when describing adult diapers and other incontinence products can be confusing. We have put together the following list of some of the components of these products that have created the most questions. We have put this information together to help you understand your options and which products are best for your needs.

Back Sheet or Backsheet: This is the material on the outside of the incontinence product that prevents liquids from leaking out. Think of this as the waterproof backing that keeps wetness inside the incontinence product. 

Top Sheet: This is the main top sheet that is the surface that comes in contact with the skin. It allows fluids to flow to the product core. This may be called the liner on some products such as bed pads and underpads.

Acquisition &  Distribution Layer (also known as ADL): This is the sub layer between the top sheet and the absorbent core. Sometimes full length, but usually a patch near the “target zone”. The ADL provides dryness to the skin by moving fluids quickly to the absorbent core

Target Zone: This is the area most urine is most likely deposited. May be called out in some products in ways such as "Blue Target Zone" which can clearly be seen on the inside of top sheet. 

Core / Absorbent Core also known as the 'Mat": This is the innermost component of the incontinence product that retains liquids and prevents liquids from returning to the surface (and being in contact with skin). Think of this as a very efficient sponge to help retain moisture for comfort. It generally consists of cellulose fibers (think cotton or similar), polyacrylate super absorbent material or a combination of both. This is the component that holds the liquid away from the wearer to keep them comfortable. 

Super Absorbent Polymer also known as SAP and or SAM (on Kimberly Clark products): This is a fine granular version of Sodium Polyacrylate in the core that absorbs and retains fluids. This item has allowed adult incontinence products to be made thinner, yet be more absorbent than traditional fluff fillers. Super Absorbent Polymer also helps reduce odors caused by urine.

Wetness Indicator: A wetness indicator is generally on the backsheet and it allows the caregiver to see wetness in the top sheet without having to remove or change a garment. This is not standard on all incontinence products.

Breathable: Incontinence products that are breathable feature a breathable top sheet that allows moisture to evaporate providing additional cooling and skin comfort. Absorbent materials used in these products to help neutralize odors and yet remain breathable for comfort.

Elastics: Elastics are used for waist and leg cuffs to improve fit and reduce or eliminate leakage from incontinence products. They are usually made of polyurethane or polyester foam, synthetic rubber or Lycra/Spandex. These may also be used in side panels to provide additional custom fit and comfort. 

Fasteners: These are the fastening devices used on adult diapers. These come in many variations, but the most popular are tape or hook and loop (think Velcro). Some fasteners allows the tabs to be connected anyplace on the diaper for a custom fit. Some are designed to be re-fastened to ensure a perfect fit and allow caregivers to check for wetness or need for a change. 

Polyethylene: This is a material that is primarily used for the backsheet/outer cover, tapes and fastening systems. Not to be confused with Superabsorbent Polymer. 

Polypropylene: This is a material commonly used in the top sheet, or layer closest to the skin. Again, not to be confused with Superabsorbent Polymers.

Adhesive Strip: This is an adhesive strip used in some pads to hold the pad in place in the underwear or incontinence garment. May be in the form of a strip or patch.

We hope this information helps you understand a bit more about adult incontinence products and the terminology used to describe their construction. Please visit our website by clicking here to see our complete listing of adult incontinence products and caregiving supplies. Thank you!