How to Keep Incontinence Pads in Place on Bed for a Secure, Slip-Free Night

Oct 28, 2025 4 min read •

Home Health Incontinence Care

According to manufacturers and health product suppliers, millions of people worldwide rely on bed pads, also known as underpads or 'chux,' for effective overnight leak protection. A common issue, however, is preventing the pads from shifting and bunching up, which can compromise their effectiveness and cause discomfort. This guide explains how to keep incontinence pads in place on bed so you can rest easy and wake up to dry, clean sheets.

Quick Summary

Several methods exist for keeping bed pads secure, including using products with built-in features like adhesive strips or tuck-in flaps. Alternatively, users can employ external aids like mattress grippers, sheet suspenders, or specialized tapes to prevent slipping and improve reliability.

Key Points

Choose Adhesive Pads: Disposable pads with adhesive strips on the waterproof backing are a simple, effective solution for preventing movement during sleep.
Use Tuck-in Flaps: For a highly secure, long-lasting fix, opt for reusable bed pads that feature fabric flaps you can tuck under the mattress on each side.
Attach Sheet Suspenders: Elastic sheet suspenders with clips can be fastened to the corners of any pad or sheet and stretched underneath the mattress for a very taut, firm hold.
Create Friction with Grippers: Placing a non-slip mattress gripper mat between the bed pad and the mattress surface increases friction, stopping the pad from sliding.
Secure with a Fitted Sheet: Layering the bed pad directly on the mattress protector and then tightly fitting a sheet over both layers provides a snug, secure fit.
Ensure Proper Pad Sizing: A pad that is too small for the user's coverage area is more likely to shift. Opt for a larger size that provides a wider margin of protection.

Choose the Right Type of Bed Pad for Your Needs

Not all incontinence bed pads are created equal, and some are designed specifically with slippage in mind. Your first step should be evaluating the features of the pads you use or considering a switch to a more secure type. Pads with built-in solutions often provide the most convenience.

Disposable Pads with Adhesive Strips

For those who prefer the convenience of single-use products, disposable pads with adhesive strips are an excellent choice. These strips run along the plastic or waterproof backing of the pad. To use them, simply peel off the paper backing to expose the sticky surface and press the pad firmly onto the sheet or mattress protector. The adhesive is strong enough to keep the pad from shifting with normal movement but won't leave a sticky residue when removed.

Washable Pads with Tuck-in Sides

Washable bed pads with tuck-in flaps offer a highly reliable and eco-friendly solution. These pads feature extra fabric on the sides that can be tucked securely under the mattress, creating tension that keeps the absorbent portion flat and centered. This is an especially effective method for restless sleepers or individuals who toss and turn frequently throughout the night.

Use External Aids to Lock Pads Down

If your current pads lack built-in anti-slip features, several external accessories can provide the extra security you need. These products are readily available online or at most home health stores.

Sheet Suspenders or Straps

These elastic straps, similar to suspenders, feature clips at each end. You attach the clips to the corners or sides of the bed pad and stretch the straps underneath the mattress in an 'X' pattern. The adjustable tension ensures the pad stays tight and flat against the mattress. For a pad that is larger than the surface area of the person, attaching the suspenders to the corners of the sheet itself can also prevent the entire bedding from bunching up around the pad.

Non-Slip Mattress Grippers

These rubberized or foam-like mats are placed between the bed pad and the underlying sheet or mattress. The friction they create effectively prevents the pad from sliding or shifting, acting as a discreet, non-adhesive layer of security. They are typically available in various sizes to fit different bed dimensions.

Specialized Tapes

While temporary and not always suitable for all fabrics, specialized double-sided tapes or heavy-duty fabric tapes can provide a quick, temporary fix. Apply the tape to the underside of the pad's edges and press it onto the fitted sheet. Test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the adhesive does not damage your bedding or leave a sticky residue.

Maximize Bedding and Pad Placement

Beyond special products, your setup technique can significantly impact how well your incontinence pad stays put.

Layering: A solid waterproof base layer, like a zippered mattress protector, is the foundation for a secure bed. Placing the absorbent bed pad on top of this protector and then covering it all with a snugly fitted sheet adds an extra layer of stability. For extra security or during heavy-flow nights, you can place a secondary pad directly on top of the fitted sheet, using adhesive strips if available.
Positioning: Place the pad directly under the torso and hip area, where protection is most needed, and ensure a sufficient border for any movement. For restless sleepers, consider a wider pad or a pad with tuck-in flaps to accommodate movement.
Proper Sizing: Using a bed pad that is too small for the user or the bed makes slippage more likely. A pad that correctly covers the target area and has extra material for tucking or strapping is ideal.

Comparison Table: Methods for Securing Incontinence Bed Pads


Method	Pros	Cons	Best For	Cost	Ease of Use
Disposable Pads with Adhesive	Convenient, easy to use, strong initial grip.	Can leave residue on some sheets, single-use creates waste.	Quick, hassle-free setup and travel.	Moderate	High
Washable Pads with Tuck-in Flaps	Highly secure, eco-friendly, reusable, soft fabric backing.	Requires laundering, higher initial cost than disposable pads.	Long-term, heavy-duty home use.	High	High
Sheet Suspenders/Straps	Very effective for securing all types of pads and sheets.	Can be tedious to attach and adjust, visible if not careful.	Restless sleepers and pads without built-in features.	Low to Moderate	Moderate
Non-Slip Mattress Grippers	Discreet, non-adhesive, reusable, no damage to bedding.	Can add an extra layer of bulk, requires correct placement.	Securing smooth-backed pads, avoiding adhesives.	Moderate	Low to Moderate
Tapes (Double-Sided/Fabric)	Quick, inexpensive, temporary fix.	May damage fabric or leave residue, not a durable solution.	Emergency situations or short-term fixes.	Low	Moderate to High

Conclusion

Preventing incontinence bed pads from slipping is essential for both hygiene and peace of mind. While several options exist, from choosing specific products to using external accessories, selecting the right method depends on your personal needs and preferences. For long-term home care, reusable pads with tuck-in sides or washable pads paired with bed sheet suspenders offer the most secure and sustainable solutions. For convenience and travel, adhesive-backed disposable pads are a reliable choice. By employing these techniques, you can ensure a comfortable, protected night's sleep, making incontinence management more manageable and less stressful.

Sources

Vitality Medical. (n.d.). Incontinence Bed Pads & Underpads. VitalityMedical.com.
San Pablo Commercial Medical Supply. (2023, April 21). How to Use Incontinence Bed Pads and Protect Your Mattress. Sanpablocom.com.
Conkote. (n.d.). Washable Chux Pads. Store.conkote.com.
Puffy. (2024, February 21). How to Keep a Mattress Pad from Sliding. Puffy.com.
Allegro Medical Supplies. (2021, December 1). Incontinence Bed Pad Guide. Allegromedical.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

To prevent bed pads from bunching, consider using options with tuck-in flaps or adhesive strips. You can also use bed sheet suspenders with clips to pull the pad taut from underneath the mattress, or place a non-slip mattress gripper pad beneath it for added friction.

Using specialized double-sided fabric tape is an option for temporary fixes, but regular tape is not recommended. It can leave a sticky residue or potentially damage the fibers of your sheets or mattress. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.

Washable bed pads often have a fabric-like backing that provides better natural grip than the slick plastic backing of some disposables. Many reusable options also come with tuck-in flaps, making them one of the most secure pad types.

For restless sleepers, the most reliable options are reusable bed pads with tuck-in flaps or using bed sheet suspenders to ensure the pad stays anchored firmly in place. These methods withstand significant movement better than standard adhesive strips.

Yes, a tight-fitting fitted sheet can help hold a bed pad in place by creating pressure over the pad and against the mattress. Layering the pad under the fitted sheet is a good way to use this technique effectively.

To secure a pad without adhesive, use bed sheet suspenders with clips, tuckable bed pads with side flaps, or a non-slip mattress gripper pad placed underneath the incontinence pad.

While layering can be done, placing a single, correctly-sized, high-absorbency pad is often more effective. Layering can increase bulk and the chance of the pads shifting. If necessary, use adhesive-backed pads or a secure tuckable design for layered protection.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.