Underpads have become a practical item for many households today, especially for anyone caring for someone who may have incontinence problems, be it a child or an elderly. These underpads offer a cost-effective way to reduce waste and save money.
Yet, to preserve their effectiveness and cleanliness, you must wash them, and take good care of them. This is the complete guide to washing and maintenance of reusable underpads.
Reusable Underpads: Know It All
Washable bed pads (or reusable underpads) are designed to protect mattresses, furniture, and other surfaces from moisture and staining. A pad usually has three layers: the top layer is often soft, and the middle layer is absorbent, with a waterproof backing to prevent leaks.
Reusable underpads often have a sturdy construction that allows them to be washed numerous times, so they are more practical for long-lasting use.
Pre-Washing Tips
First, wash your new reusable underpads. The first wash helps remove any manufacturing residues and primes them for better absorbency. Here’s how to prepare them:
Verify the Care Label: Read the instructions on the care label with your laundry establishment. It can provide guidance on what temperature to wash it in, which detergents to use, and how to dry it.
Wash In Like Colors: Just like you do your laundry, prevent the bleeding of dyes by sorting your underpads.
Pre-Soak if Necessary: If the underpads have become soiled, pre-soaking can aid in removing tough stains and odors. Leave them to soak in water and gentle detergent or vinegar solution for 30 minutes before washing
Washing Reusable Underpads
Properly washing reusable underpads helps preserve their life, allowing them to be used multiple times. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Wash With a Gentle Detergent: Opt for a mild, unscented detergent to prevent irritating sensitive skin and damaging the fabric. They are also damaged by harsh detergents and fabric softeners, which ruin the waterproof layer and decrease absorbency.
Use Warm Temperature: Wash the pads in warm water. Warm water weakens the impermeable barrier, and with cold water, the stains and many bacteria remain.
The same goes for most fabric softeners; try to avoid adding bleach to your underwear, as the bleach could eventually eat away at the materials and shorten the lifespan. It can also lead to a build-up that reduces absorbency (here are 7 other reasons your towels are rough). Outboard the pads and rinse as needed – add a little bit of vinegar to the rinse cycle if the pads need to be disinfected.
Wash on Gentle: Use a gentle cycle on your washing machine. Doing so lessens the fabric damage and protects the fabric for a longer time, in the case of underpads.
Drying Reusable Underpads
Best drying tricks are as equally important as washing. Follow these tips:
Dry Naturally Whenever Feasible: The most ideal approach to dry reusable underpads is to air them at home outside or drape them inside a drying rack. Air drying is also preferred as it helps protect the waterproof backing and prolongs the underpads.
Machine Dry on Low Heat: If you are inclined to use a dryer, select a low heat or air dry function. The pee pads are made of multiple layers to be able to absorb as much fluids as possible while they protect the bottom; therefore, excessive heat can affect the waterproof layer and cause it to damage sooner than expected.
Dry Properly: Wait until the underpads are completely dry before putting them back into storage or reusing them. Damp pads will situate a feeling of being deep in the bowels; it will produce odors and mold that would be harmful to health.
Storing Reusable Underpads
Here are some tips on how to carefully and properly store your reusable underpads:
Fold Cleanly: When the underpads are air-dried, just stack them nicely to stay away from folds and prevent the waterproof layer from being damaged.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store the underpads in a cool, dry place and shield them from direct sunlight and humidity. Fabric and waterproof backing will deteriorate if excessive heat and moisture occur.
Ventilate: Underpads can store air and must not be overcrowded. It is a surefire way to cause wrinkles and ruin if they are wedged between something.
Conclusion
Proper care of reusable underpads will significantly prolong their life and efficacy. With proper washing, drying, and storing, it will also be easy to care for your reusable underpads to keep them sanitary, absorbent, and comfortable.
This will not only provide superior protection for your beds and furniture but will also provide a more economical and eco-friendly solution to help deal with incontinent and moisture-related issues as well.
Keep in mind to always follow the care instructions that the manufacturer provides and tailor your routine as needed to continue to perform effectively while keeping your underpads hygienic.
