Adult incontinence products come in two main styles. Briefs, often called tab-style briefs or adult diapers, open flat and fasten at the hips with refastenable tabs. Protective underwear, often called pull-ups, slides on and off like regular underwear and tears open at the sides for removal. Both styles come in a range of sizes and absorbency levels. The right one mostly depends on who puts it on, whether the wearer stands or lies down for changes, and how much leakage protection is needed.
Briefs and pull-ups compared
| Tab-style briefs | Pull-up protective underwear | |
|---|---|---|
| How it goes on | Opens flat; tabs fasten at each hip | Pulls up like regular underwear |
| Changing | Can be changed while lying down, without removing pants fully | Usually changed standing; sides tear open to remove |
| Best fit | People who need help with changes, spend much of the day in bed or a wheelchair, or need heavy protection | People who are active, walk on their own and change themselves |
| Fit adjustment | Tabs let you tighten or loosen the fit at each change | Fit is set by the size and the elastic waist |
| Look and feel | Bulkier under clothing | Closer to regular underwear |
When tab-style briefs make sense
Briefs are a common choice when a caregiver does the changing. Because a brief opens flat, it can be put on and taken off while the wearer lies on their side, which is easier for people who cannot stand for long. The tabs can be refastened to adjust the fit. We carry tab-style briefs from Prevail (Nu-Fit and Per-Fit), TENA ProSkin Stretch, Attends, McKesson Ultra, Wings and Tranquility, including bariatric sizes. Browse all incontinence briefs, or shop by size: medium, large and X-large. For 2XL and up, see bariatric briefs.
When pull-up underwear makes sense
Protective underwear suits people who manage their own changes and want something that feels like regular underwear. Many styles are cut for men or women, with absorbency placed where it is needed. Shop all disposable underwear, or by size: small, medium, large, X-large and 2XL to 3XL. We also have pages for men's and women's products.
Using both
Some people wear pull-ups during the day and switch to a brief at night, when a higher-capacity product and an adjustable fit matter more. Others add a booster pad or liner inside either style. See our overnight products and pads and liners. A bed pad or underpad adds a layer of protection for the mattress.
Sizing and absorbency tips
- Measure: briefs are usually sized by waist or hip measurement, whichever is larger. Pull-ups are usually sized by waist. Check each product's size chart, since ranges differ by brand. Our brief sizing guide walks through it.
- Fit matters more than size up: a product that is too big can leak at the legs. If you are between sizes, follow the brand's chart.
- Match absorbency to need: labels such as moderate, heavy and maximum vary by brand. If you are leaking, a higher absorbency level or a better fit usually helps more than doubling up.
- Try before buying a case: where a smaller pack is offered, it is a low-cost way to test fit.
Frequently asked questions
Are adult briefs and adult diapers the same thing?
Yes. "Brief" is the common product name for a tab-style adult diaper.
Can pull-ups be changed without taking off shoes and pants?
Most protective underwear has tear-away sides, so a used pair can be removed without taking off shoes or pants. A fresh pair still pulls up from the feet.
Are incontinence products FSA or HSA eligible?
Incontinence products are commonly FSA/HSA eligible. Check with your plan administrator for your specific plan.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, nurse or therapist about what is right for you.