How to Prevent Incontinence Pads Leaking

Here at Cheeky we've been all about 'Simple Reusables' since 2008, and we have a wide range of reusable incontinence pads and pants. We understand that bowel and urinary incontinence can be embarrassing to talk about. But it's a VERY common problem.

We're also experts in helping people find the right incontinence protection for them.  If your incontinence pads are leaking, the key is understanding why they occur and what you can do to stop them for good.

'I'm so pleased with these as the disposable pads were irritating my skin and giving me problems. I don't find having the need to was the pads a problem. It's far easier to wash them than to dispose of a disposable pad. It's also far kinder to the planet. It's interesting to think that we're going back to what our grandmothers and great grandmothers did.' Heavy Incontinence Pad Review

Why Is My Incontinence Pad Leaking?

Incontinence pad leaks aren’t always due to a lack of absorbency. Other factors, such as fit, positioning, and pad type, can also play a role. Here are some common reasons why your pad may be leaking:

• Incorrect size or poor fit – If your pad is too small or too large, it may not provide the coverage and security you need.
• Not changing the pad frequently enough – Overusing a pad can cause it to become saturated, leading to leaks.
• Low absorbency for the type/amount of leakage – Not all incontinence pads are created equal. 'Discreet' pads tend to be low absorbency, you may need a more absorbent option if leaks are frequent.
• Incorrect positioning of the pad – If your pad isn’t placed correctly, it won’t be as effective at absorbing leaks.
• Movement or physical activity causing shifting – If your pad moves around as you go about your day, leaks are more likely to occur.
• If you're using reusable incontinence pads, these need to be prewashed to build absorbency. 3 or 4 washes is necessary before they reach full absorbency

What Should I Do if My Pad Is Leaking?

If you’re experiencing leaks, don’t worry—there are simple fixes to help keep you dry and comfortable. Here are the best ways to prevent incontinence pad leaks:

1. Check Pad Size & Fit

A pad that doesn’t fit properly is one of the biggest culprits behind leaks. If your pad is too small, it won’t offer enough coverage. If it’s too large, it might not stay in place. Try different sizes to find the one that fits your body best.

2. Wear Supportive Underwear

Tight-fitting underwear can help keep your pad securely in place, reducing the risk of shifting and leaks. If your regular underwear isn’t holding your pad properly, consider switching to specially designed incontinence pants to stop leaks. If you suffer with more severe incontinence, consider doubling up, using reusable incontinence pants plus a pad.

3. Check Absorbency Level

If you frequently experience leaks, your current pads may not have a high enough absorbency level. Consider switching to pads that are designed for heavier leaks or overnight use. Reusable incontinence pads, like Cheeky Pants reusable incontinence pads, often provide better absorbency than disposables.

4. Change More Frequently

A full pad won’t be able to absorb more liquid, leading to leaks. Make sure to change your pad as needed throughout the day. If you find yourself changing too often, it may be a sign that you need a more absorbent option.

5. Consider Reusables

Reusable incontinence pads and pants are designed to be highly absorbent, comfortable, and leakproof. Options like Cheeky Pants reusable incontinence pants provide a secure fit, ensuring that moisture stays locked away. Plus, they’re eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run!

6. Prewash Your Reusables

Reusable incontinence pads and pants are super absorbent but they need 3 or 4 washes before they reach full absorbency. You can obviously wear them before that time, but bear this in mind if you have any leaks.

"Great pad for moderate incontinence, I team the pad up with Fearless pants.

Very comfortable to wear, soft against delicate skin ‘downstairs’ doesn’t rub or chafe and stays in place when I run. Seems expensive at first but there are generally offers available on this site to make them cheaper. I haven’t bought any disposable inco pads for well over a couple of years so I don’t know how much they are but I’m thinking I’m saving money and not filling up my bin! Wash and dry well." Fearless Pads Review

Recommended Products:

Reusable Cloth Incontinence Pads Specially desgined for incontinence use our pads are WAY more comfortable and absorbent than disposable! Browse

Incontinence Kits Looking to replace your disposable incontinence protection? Check out our reusable kits! Browse

Incontinence Pants Our incontinence pants for men, women & children are designed to make you feel fearless and look fabulous too! Browse

Want to explore more tips and our range of reusable incontinence products? Check out our related blog posts:

• Best Incontinence Underwear for Women
• Bladder Incontinence and Your Period: What’s the Connection?
• Incontinence Pants vs Pads: All You Need to Know
• Can You Use Incontinence Underwear for Periods?
• The Ultimate Guide to Swimming with Incontinence
• What is the Best Thing to Wear for Incontinence?
• How Many Incontinence Pads Per Day is Normal?
• How Much Pee Can Incontinence Pads & Pants Hold?

Still have questions? We’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or get in touch with us here.

About the Author: Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes in 2008, expanding her Simple Reusables range to include period pants, reusable pads, panty liners, and incontinence products—offering comfortable, eco-friendly alternatives. Cheeky’s team loves to chat pee, poo, and periods, helping customers switch to reusables, and their sustainability efforts earned the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2021.