The 9 Most Common Incontinence Mistakes
Many people with incontinence make common mistakes when it comes time to things like choosing products and seeking treatment. Don't worry, we're here to help.
1. Thinking expensive means betters
Higher price doesn’t always equal better quality. Many good incontinence products offer similar absorbency levels — without the big price tag. Paying more doesn’t mean you’re getting more. The right product should work for you and your budget.
💡 Smart move: At Invizi, our products are made in Europe to high standards — and we keep prices low. Plus, we offer savings and discounts to help you spend less without compromising on care.
2. Using period pads for bladder leaks
They’re just not made for it. Menstrual pads are built to absorb thicker fluid in smaller amounts. Urine flows differently and needs a different kind of protection. Using the wrong product means leaks, discomfort, and frustration.
💡 Smart move: Use incontinence-specific pads like our Invizi range. They’re built for bladder leaks and designed to keep you dry, discreet, and comfortable.
3. Doubling up products for ‘extra’ absorbency'
A pad inside a pull-up might seem clever — but it can backfire. Most incontinence pads are leak-proof by design. That means liquid from the inner pad can’t pass into the outer one, leading to leaks around the edges.
💡 Smart move: Choose one product with the right absorbency level. Not sure what that is? Call our friendly team or try our Invizi Fit quiz. And if you really need extra, use booster pads — they’re made for layering.
4. Wearing products for too long
Trying to ‘use up’ every drop? That can harm your skin. Even though modern products use absorbent gels to lock in moisture, leaving them on for too long can cause irritation or incontinence-related skin issues.
💡 Smart move: Change regularly, even if the product isn’t full. Your skin will thank you.
5. Automatically buying the highest absorbency products
Bigger isn’t always better. Oversized, ultra-absorbent products might seem like the safest bet — but they’re often overkill. They can lead to less frequent changes, which can cause discomfort and skin problems. Plus, they cost more.
💡 Smart move: Pick what suits your needs, not just the biggest on the shelf. Less can be more.
6. Wearing pads the wrong way
It happens more often than you’d think.
Wearing a pad inside out or in the wrong position can mean leaks, chafing, or discomfort.
💡 Smart move: Make sure the absorbent side is against your skin, and follow the guides on the product. Our video on how to apply incontinence pads can help too.
7. Using toilet paper or towels as makeshift pads
Desperate times don’t call for desperate measures. Toilet paper and towels just aren’t designed to absorb urine. They leak, shift, and can lead to discomfort fast.
💡 Smart move: Incontinence products use super absorbent gels that hold liquid in place even when pressure is applied. They’re worth it.
8. Cutting up or modifying pads
Chopping a pad into pieces might seem resourceful but it ruins the product. The absorbent material inside is meant to stay contained. Cutting into it means it can’t hold liquid properly and may even fall apart.
💡 Smart move: Choose the size and shape that fits your needs. Our range offers lots of options, no scissors required.
9. Running out of products
We’ve all been there and it’s never fun. Realising you’re out of pads or pull-ups at the worst time can be stressful and embarrassing.
💡 Smart move: Our Never Run Out subscription keeps you stocked without you even thinking about it. You save 10%, and we send products before you run low.
The bottom line?
A few small changes can make a big difference. If anything here sounds familiar, don’t stress — you’re not alone, and help is always on hand. Our team is here if you have questions or need advice.
Just a heads-up:
This article is here to share general information, not medical advice.
If you or someone you care for is dealing with ongoing or new incontinence, especially alongside other health issues, it’s always best to check in with a GP or specialist. Everyone’s different, and getting the right support starts with the right diagnosis.