Most of us don’t expect to be searching for the “best incontinence underwear” online in our thirties, forties or even fifties. As a nurse, I’ve a lot of people struggle with bladder leaks way before they hit their “senior” years. I never thought I’d be dealing with the same issue myself.

Unfortunately, my second pregnancy wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. After a few issues, I stopped trusting my bladder as much as I used to. At first, I tried to ignore the problem (not as easy as it sounds). Then I started using pads, which always felt bulky and sweaty. Eventually, I started looking for better options.

I didn’t want to go hunting for clothes for older women, or “medical supplies”, but I did eventually have to admit that I needed to do something or risk some serious embarrassment.

Fortunately, I did eventually find a few options that didn’t make me feel like I’m wearing a diaper. So, I thought I’d share my discoveries here, for all the men and women just like me, constantly worrying about an unexpected leak.

Incontinence Underwear: Not Just for Seniors

There’s this idea that bladder leaks only happen to women in nursing homes or something. I can tell you from experience that’s just not true. Leaks happen to moms, women going through menopause, people with injuries, you name it.

For me, it started after pregnancy. My pelvic floor never really bounced back, and honestly? I didn’t even realize how common it was until I finally brought it up to a friend, and she said, “Oh, same.”

I did a bit of research and found out that 44% of women have leaks between the ages of 20 and 80. After the age of 65, that number goes up to 75%.

So, trust me when I say you’re absolutely not alone. You’re also not limited to medical-grade adaptive apparel, or weird disposable underwear.

There’s a lot of reliable underwear out there now made specifically for this problem, and a quite a few options look and feel like regular panties, boxers, or whatever you like to wear.

The Best Incontinence Underwear: What to Look For

The first time I started shopping for this kind of underwear, I was completely overwhelmed. There were words like “moderate absorbency,” “leak barriers,” “moisture-wicking layers,” and I just kind of stared at my screen wondering “what do I actually need?”

So here’s what I wish someone told me to look for right at the beginning:

• Genuine absorbency: Some incontinence underwear is really only meant for tiny little leaks. Others are made to survive more serious accidental downpours. I’d recommend looking for products that tell you exactly how much liquid they can really hold.
• The right fit: If the waistband digs in or the leg holes ride up, you’re going to notice it all day. If it’s too loose, you’re going to end up with leaks. Some brands run small, so double-check the size guide, and don’t be afraid to try a size up.
• Comfortable fabric: I thought “underwear is underwear,” but nope. Some materials feel like bathing suit fabric, some feel soft like cotton, and some just feel like paper. You want something breathable, especially if you’re wearing them all day. 
• Style: There are different types: bikini cuts, boyshorts, high-rise briefs, and even adaptive pull-ons that are easier to get on and off. If you’re shopping for someone else, like a parent or partner, find out what they prefer. 
• Reusability: Unless you’re looking for disposable underwear (which I wouldn’t recommend), you’ll need something you can wash and reuse time and time again. Don’t just assume they won’t fall apart in the wash.

Remember, you don’t have to sacrifice how you feel in them either. Style isn’t too important, but if you feel weird or frumpy in your underwear, or you think it’s clearly visible under your clothing, your confidence is going to suffer.

The Best Incontinence Underwear I’ve Tried

Honestly, I’ve tried quite a few different types of incontinence underwear at this point, some of it definitely feels like it was designed specifically for people with bladder leaks. Other options feel a little closer to traditional underwear. Here’s what I think about each product (from personal experience).

Option 5: Molasus Incontinence Underwear

★★★☆☆

I found these on Amazon late one night after deciding I was going to stop subjecting myself to the humiliating experience of actually buying incontinence pads at the supermarket.

I’ve bought a couple of great products (discreetly) from Amazon in the past, like comfort bras for seniors with front-closing clasps. Most of these products haven’t turned out to be life-changers, but they usually get the job done, and they’re affordable, so it’s hard to grumble.

The Molasus incontinence underwear seemed like a cheap, cheerful option, with a lot of great reviews. Honestly, they’re ok. They’re reasonably comfortable, and don’t look terrible on. Plus, they come in a pack of three, which is handy.

Unfortunately, they’re not quite as “leak-proof” as I’d like. They tend to struggle with anything other than the lightest dribble, especially after a couple of washes.

Option 4: Wearever High-Rise Panties

★★★☆☆

I probably wouldn’t have bought these at all if a friend hadn’t recommended them to me. They look way too much like medical-grade clothing for older women in my opinion. I’m talking real “granny panties” here. They’re definitely sturdy, with full coverage, and an ultra-high waist.

Although I personally don’t feel very confident in them, they do hold moderate leaks quite well. The fabric doesn’t fall apart after a couple of washes, and you do feel well-protected. My biggest issue is that I always feel like people can see them under my clothing.

Plus, the material is a little tight. It feels a bit more like wearing a pair of tummy control pants than a standard pair of underwear. I’ve bought a couple of pairs for my mom (who’s now in her late eighties), and she likes them, but I can’t say I wear them too often myself.

If you’re shopping for someone who prioritizes function over fashion, these might be a good pick. But for everyday wear? Not my favorite.

Option 3: Thinx All-Night Ultra-Soft Boyshort

★★★★☆

I wasn’t sure about trying Thinx for incontinence issues, as their underwear is usually marketed as “period panties”. Still, I figured if they can hold blood, they can handle leaks too.

Turns out, they’re pretty great, especially for sleeping. I tend to wear them with my Comfort Sculpt bra from Liberare when I need a bit of extra support at night. The boyshort style has a ton of coverage, and the fabric is super soft.

The only downside? They do feel a little heavy if you’ve had a full-bladder kind of night, and they’re not cheap. At around $30 a pair, they’re not something I’d stock up on unless I caught a sale. I also find them a bit bulky to wear underneath skirts or tighter dresses. Still, they’ve earned a permanent spot in my drawer for sleep or travel days.

Option 2: Knix Super Leakproof Bikini

★★★★☆

My sister actually got me onto the Knix super leakproof bikini panties. She said they’re great if you’re looking for something seamless that doesn’t ruin your entire outfit. I was a little skeptical at first though, because they’re quite sleek and sporty looking.

Usually, the “smaller” underwear options I’ve tried haven’t been the best for leaks. But Knix’s panties are surprisingly good. You can choose from a range of absorbency options, and there are different colors, so you can match your panties to your bra if you want.

They also have great bonded edges that help to prevent anything from dribbling out, if you know what I mean. I think these are pretty good for trips to the gym, or running errands, although the seams do start to feel a little tight after a while, so they might not be great for all-day wear.

My Favorite: Liberare Leakproof Pull-Up

★★★★★

 

All of the incontinence underwear options I’ve mentioned so far have something good to offer, whether you’re looking for something affordable, seamless, or just durable. But Liberare’s Leakproof pull-up panties are the only ones I’ve tried that really check every box.

I love that they have a discreet loop on them but are super elegant. It makes easy to put on them on without having to bend down. 

 

And they come in sizes S-3XL, a HUGE win!

They’re super soft and comfortable, seamless under clothing, and incredible for absorbing liquid. I already love Liberare’s bras (like the Everyday Easy-On, which is my favorite bra of all time). So buying a pair of these panties was a no brainer for me.

Honestly, these panties really are incredible. They’re breathable, there are no tags to irritate your skin, and they even come with handy pull-up loops that make them easy to get on and off. They’re also a lot more affordable than many of the other options I looked at (less than $20 a pair).

If you want something that looks and feels like regular underwear, but also gives you the extra support, comfort and confidence you need without breaking the bank, Liberare’s underwear options are absolutely perfect.

The Best Incontinence Underwear I’ve Tried

Trust me, I know how uncomfortable shopping for the best incontinence underwear can be. It’s easy to feel like there’s something wrong with you, or that you’ve passed your peak. But let me tell you, this issue affects many of us, often a lot sooner than we’d expect.

You don’t have to settle for scratchy pads or underwear that looks like it came from a hospital supply catalog. There are better options out there. For me, the Liberare leakproof panties really are the gold standard. They’re panties that make me feel normal, comfortable, and reassured when I need it most.

Whether you’re dealing with leaks yourself or helping someone else through it, I hope this gave you a clearer picture of what’s out there, and a little confidence that you’re not alone.