Truly, adults must know how to properly wash and manage washable underpads for efficient use, even before getting them. Admittedly, many adults favor washable underpads; the longer they last, the more cost-effective they become. After all, who doesn’t want to get the most out of their investment to achieve efficient incontinence management? Of course, no one would want, and it is a similar scenario for washing washable underpads.
No one will like to have underpads with odor and dirt that can eventually trigger skin allergies and irritations if there’s a way to learn how to wash them properly. The release of washable bed pads in the healthcare market has been a great advantage for healthcare facilities, hospitals, and people with a tight budget.
Like disposable underpads, washable underpads show an equal level of absorbency and effectiveness. However, to make the most out of them, we must know all the basic steps to wash reusable underpads properly.
Advantages of washable underpads
Since healthcare professionals and caregivers commonly patronize washable bed pads, it is important to know what advantages they can offer consumers. Who knows? Maybe washable bed pads are the ones for us or our loved ones. Here are some of its many advantages:
Washable underpads can save you money. Since you have a reusable one, you won’t bother going outside to buy a bunch of bed pads. Plus, you can save a handful of money you can use for other expenses when you do the math.
Less storage. If you are a minimalist person, washable bed pads can be your ally because you won’t need storage cabinets or boxes to store your supply. When you have three pieces of reusable bed pads (in use, in the washer, one on the go), you won’t have to worry about running out of supply.
Great design. Most incontinence products like diapers have designs similar to normal underwear. In the case of bed pads, most of their designs coordinate with furnishings. Most bed pads used in hospitals, the blue ones, coordinate well with their beds. With this, bed pads will not draw attention to other people. Hence, making the patient comfortable.
Eco-friendly. With washable pads, you can reduce extra waste thrown in the landfill. You will also forget about their disposal since they are washable.
How to wash washable underpads?
It is advised that incontinence items such as diapers and bed pads be changed every two hours of use, whether soiled with urine or feces. It relieves back strain and dissipates the heat built up inside the product. Underpads that have been properly washed will have a long and useful economic life. Unfortunately, bed pads that have been laundered improperly might break down, reducing the product’s lifespan, particularly its absorbency. Follow these easy procedures when it’s time to wash your reusable bed pads.
- When it comes to washing your bed pads, check the manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging. This initial step is important because various manufacturers have different requirements for handling their products. Also, another important note to remember is to use cold water and mild detergent when washing.
- Wash the bed pad as soon as possible after removing it from your patient. It will prevent the urine from drying inside the pad and prevent the odor lingering in the bed pads.
- When it’s time to wash chux, remember to use a light detergent. We should not use fabric conditioners and softeners since they reduce the product’s absorbency and eventually lose effectiveness.
- You can wash reusable bed pads using your hands or a washer. If you’re hand-washing bed pads, dilute the mild detergent in the water first before adding it to the product. Also, we should carefully wash the bed pads until the strong urine scent is removed.
- When using a washer, remember to use a mild detergent in a cold water setting. Please do not use bleach products, fabric softeners, or conditioners to prevent the bed pads’ loss of absorbency. The amount of time it takes for an underpad to dry is determined by its weight; heavier underpads will take longer. Be careful to remove the underpad from the dryer within five minutes after completing its cycle.
- Also, avoid ironing and over-drying your bed pads since this can cause them to shrink. Remember that urine stain and odor is common, especially for old washable bed pads. When you find it uncomfortable, you can purchase new ones.
- Although it may be tempting to fold washable underpads to fit into different areas, it reduces their absorbency. Folding these incontinent products causes leaks since they are intended to have one absorbent side and one waterproof side.
Hygienic Tips in washing reusable bed pads
While many have doubted bed pads’ effectiveness and hygienic efficiency, manufacturers have proven them wrong. Bed pads undergo delicate processes that pass the standards for health and safety. Hence, we don’t have to worry about its safety. Here are some hygienic tips to help you in washing reusable bed pads.
- To remove urine stains and odor, you can soak the chucks in a water mixture, baking soda, and tree oil for a few hours. But, remember to wash them first before doing this.
- Change bed pads after at least two hours of usage. With this, bacteria and heat buildup can be prevented – helping you avoid the risk of getting skin rashes or allergies.
- If your bed pad has a polyester component in it, keep in mind not to use fabric softeners unless you want to lose its absorbency.
Final Thoughts
Due to their extensive uses and benefits, consumers from hospitals and other healthcare facilities consider using washable underpads to help their patients. Like ordinary bed pads, it has a soft top material, absorbent core, and waterproof backing to protect furniture against urine and fecal leakage effectively.
If you want assistance in buying the best bed pads in the market, please reach out to Avacare Medical at 1-877-813-7799 or email [email protected]. We’ll ensure that you’ll receive nothing but genuine service from our professional team. We prepared to buy guides and sample product programs to give you a real experience and feel about the product we are selling.
