Tabbed Briefs vs. Adult Pull-Ups: Which Are Best for You?

For those dealing with incontinence in their everyday lives, adult diapers tend to provide the best overall protection from leaks and odors. These products come in two very distinct styles: traditional tabbed briefs and adult-sized pull-ups, which mimic normal underwear. 

Underx offers both options in anatomy-specific styles, giving you the freedom to choose quality products that can boost your confidence and allow you to enjoy your favorite activities – all without embarrassment or anxiety. Below, you can learn more about the differences in tabbed briefs vs. adult pull-ups so you can make the best decision for your needs. 

Adult Diapers: What Everyone Should Know

Adults living with light or heavy incontinence often rely on products to keep them dry and comfortable throughout the day. Of these, tabbed briefs and adult pull-ups are the most common, and in many cases, they are the simplest to use – as well as the most comfortable. There are four things that everyone should know about adult diapers, whether they suffer from incontinence themselves or they are supporting a loved one with the diagnosis. 

1. They Are Essential for Maintaining an Active Lifestyle

Unlike many of the diapers designed for babies and small children, adult diapers are discreet and can be worn under clothing without bulk. Modern products look and feel like normal underwear in most ways, and they provide an exceptional level of comfort and confidence. Adult diapers can help people suffering from incontinence maintain their active, socially-fulfilling lives without fear of leaks or odors. 

2. Thicker Is Not Always Better

Thicker adult diapers are not always the better option. In fact, the most important consideration to make – aside from purchasing tabbed briefs vs. adult pull-ups – is the size. A well-fitting adult diaper that is thin and discreet provides ample protection without added bulk that can show under clothing and cause embarrassment. 

3. Adult Diapers are Not Harmful 

No matter which product style you choose, keep in mind that there is no harm in wearing an adult diaper under the supervision of a medical professional. Choose a product designed for the level of incontinence involved – heavy vs. light incontinence – and make sure it fits well. Change wet diapers quickly, and use products designed to prevent chafing and rashes if instructed to do so by a medical professional. 

4. There are Two Different Styles 

Adult diapers may all look and feel slightly different, but there are two primary styles from which to choose: standard tabbed diapers or pull-up style diapers. Each one has its own unique set of benefits, and choosing the right style depends on several factors. 

How to Choose from Tabbed Briefs vs. Adult Pull-Ups

Tabbed briefs closely resemble the diapers used for babies and toddlers in that they feature tabs on each side that wrap around the wearer’s sides before fastening in the front. Adult pull-ups, on the other hand, resemble traditional underwear and pull on in the exact same way. Before choosing, consider the unique and specific needs of the individual who will be wearing the diaper. 

Benefits of Tabbed Briefs

Tabbed briefs offer three primary benefits to wearers and their caregivers:

Excellent Absorbency: Tabbed briefs can be the best option for individuals living with extremely heavy incontinence as their design makes them more absorbent than pull-ups. However, in some cases, the additional absorbency can add additional bulk.

Ease of Use for Others: Tabbed briefs are also an excellent option for individuals who care for adults with incontinence, particularly if the sufferer is immobile or non-ambulatory. The tabs allow the individual to roll gently from side to side rather than standing up or lifting the hips to achieve the proper fit.

Adjustable Fit: Finally, the tabs on briefs can be adjusted to form a tighter or looser fit, which can be essential for individuals with certain body shapes. Individuals who experience bloating or similar conditions may also find briefs the best option for frequent adjustments. 

Benefits of Pull-Ups

Pull-ups, on the other hand, offer a different set of benefits for wearers:

Ease of Use for the Wearer: Whereas tabs offer ease of use for caregivers, adult pull-ups encourage independence in the individual wearing them. They pull on just like everyday underwear, making them easy to put on and take off. They are often fitted with stretchy elastic bands at the legs and waist, so they flex with movement.

Discreet Wear: While tabbed briefs offer exceptional absorbency, they can be a bit more bulky than their pull-up counterparts. Most modern pull-ups are designed to be almost invisible under clothing, which further empowers and encourages the wearer.

Moderate Absorbency: Pull-ups are often not as absorbent as briefs, but many people with light to moderate incontinence find them suitable, especially with frequent changes. 

Which Should You Choose?

In summary, tabbed briefs are best suited for individuals who have heavy incontinence and/or those who have difficulty standing or shifting their bodies into pull-up style adult diapers. They offer the highest level of absorbency and they are comfortable to change and wear. Pull-ups are the better option for active adults with light to moderate incontinence who want to maintain their current way of life at work, home, in public, or with friends. They pull on just like traditional briefs or panties, and they are not noticeable under most clothing items. 

Some adults mix and match, finding that they can wear a pad during the day, but they need more absorbency at night. Pull-ups are an excellent choice in this case. Some adults who wear pull-ups may travel with tabbed briefs for their extra absorbency, particularly in situations like long flights, where they will be unable to change frequently enough to avoid leaks. 

Deciding between tabbed briefs vs adult pull-ups is a very personal choice that should consider the needs of the wearer and the caregivers. Underx’s product range includes briefs and pull-ups designed for men’s and women’s anatomies that offer unsurpassed comfort and absorbency. Paired with a quality skin relief cream and adult disposable washcloths for on-the-go freshness, adults with incontinence can live confident, happy lives.