Thursday 29 December 2022

Nona Classic Slip Extra Adult Diaper Review

 *For more information on how I do reviews see Diaper Test Methodology


Summary

The Nona Classic Slip Extra is one of the lesser-known plastic-backed diapers and appears to mostly be sold in Germany. This diaper is full featured with dual waistbands, standing inner leak guards and refastenable tapes. This diaper does not have the absorbency you’ll find in popular competitors like the Molicare Slip Maxi, Tena Slip Active Fit Maxi or Abena Abri-Form M4. However, it does come at a far lower unit price that could make it an affordable option for those requiring frequent changes. During testing, I found this diaper to be quite durable and comfortable. It was consistently able to take a full wetting without leaking a bit, even under pressout conditions. I was impressed with its wicking ability, but it seems to have a relatively low absorbency threshold and will almost surely leak when wet more than once.

Key Features:

  • Plastic backsheet
  • Refastenable tapes
  • Dual waistbands
  • Standing inner leak barriers

Pros:

  • Very affordable
  • Soft topsheet and backsheet
  • Strong tapes + durable
  • Great wicking ability

Cons:

  • Low absorbency
  • Noisy
  • Surface dampness

Product Details

For the purpose of this post I will be reviewing and referring to the medium-sized Nona Classic Slip Extra Diaper. However, other available sizes are listed below:


Packaging

Brand: Nona
Manufacturer: S.I.CELL S.p.A. for MEDI-MARKT Homecare GmbH
Origin: EU
Units Per Bag: 25
Cost Per Unit: $$
Dimensions (L x W x H): 38 cm (15") x 16 cm (6.3") x 25 cm (9.8")
Weight: 2.6 kg (5.6 lbs)
Available Sizes: M, L
Advertised Absorbency: Extra


1.1 Nona Classic Slip Extra Packaging

Diaper

Backsheet: Plastic (poly)
Wetness Indicator: Yes (yellow line down middle, blue when wet)
Standing Inner Leak Guards: Yes
Leg Gathers: Yes
Product Style: Tab-Style Brief
Refastenable Tabs: Yes
Number of Tapes: 2
Repositionable Tabs: No
Outer Color: White
Inner Color: White
Front Waistband: Yes
Rear Waistband: Yes
Folded Thickness: 1.7 cm (0.7")
Folded Length: 25 cm (9.8")
Dry Weight: 100 g (3.5 oz)
Fragrance: No
Diaper Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 83 cm (23.6") x 60 cm (23.6") x 29.5 cm (11.6") x 60 cm (23.6")
Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Rectangular, Rectangular
Padding Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 63 cm (24.8") x 28 cm (11") x 16.5 cm (6.5") x 32.5 cm (12.8")
Padding Wing Dimensions (fPW x fPH x bPW x bPH): 5.6 cm (2.3") x 15 cm (5.9") x 8 cm (3.2") x 20 cm (7.9")
Padding Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Semicircle, Semicircle
Total Padding Area: 1532 cm2 (237 in2)
Tape Spacing (t1 x t2): 3.5 cm (1.4") x 18 cm (7.1")
Tape (W x L): 3 cm (1.2") x 5 cm (2")


1.2 Nona Classic Slip Extra Diaper


Laboratory Absorbency Tests

Total Absorption Volume (after press out): 850 ml (30 oz)
Total Absorption Volume (before press out): 900 ml (31.8 oz)
Time to Absorb Wettings (first to last): (55 s, 52 s, 48 s, 52 s)
Wet Folded Thickness: 4.5 cm (1.8")
Used to Total Padding Ratio: 98%
Total Padding to Absorbency Ratio: 0.55 ml / cm2 (0.13 oz / in2)
Press Out Volume: 50 ml (1.8 oz)

Surface Dampness Rating: 4

The Nona Classic Slip Extra wasn’t particularly strong when it came to preventing surface dampness. During the lab test there were clear signs of surface dampness after the first wetting and it quickly reached saturation. During real world wear the surface dampness was fairly noticeable in parts of the padding after a single wetting, though its exceptional wicking ability helped and there was never much in the way of pooling.



2.1 Wet vs Dry Diaper After Capacity Test


2.2 Used vs Unused Padding After Capacity Test


"Real World" Absorbency Tests

Posture Tests


Standing-Sitting

Total Absorbed Volume: 600 ml (21.2 oz)
Total Wettings: (1 standing, 1 sitting)
Leaked After Sitting: No
Used to Total Padding Ratio:100%
Padding to Absorbency Score: 0.39 ml / cm2 (0.09 oz / in2)

Standing-Sitting Rating: 6
The Nona Classic Slip Extra performed better than expected for daily wear. The first wetting while standing was quickly absorbed and distributed through the padding. There was a bit of surface dampness but it otherwise wasn’t too bad. There was no pressout leakage upon sitting shortly after. The second wetting while seated was nearly completely absorbed, the unused padding at the front of the diaper absorbed the bulk of it and the remainder wicked to the back. At this point there was minor leakage through the rear leg gathers and the diaper had obviously hit capacity so I stopped the test. I feel like this diaper should be reliable for 1 wetting during daily wear, but 2 would probably be pushing it. Even so, this is more than I expected. In spite of the thin padding it proved very proficient at wicking and at the end of the test the entirety of the padding was used.


Lying Down

Total Absorbed Volume: 650 ml (22.9 oz)
Total Wettings: 2
Used to Total Padding Ratio: 81%
Padding to Absorbency Score: 0.42 ml / cm2 (0.10 oz / in2)

Lying Down Rating: 6

The Nona Classic Slip Extra performed reasonably when tested while lying down. The padding is pretty thin but the first wetting was easily able to wick through the padding and was absorbed over a large area in the rear padding. There was no sign of leakage at this point but much of the padding was used and felt slightly damp but otherwise not too clammy. The second wetting ended up with pooling and a moderate leak through the rear leg gathers. The rear padding was completely saturated at this point, but the front padding was still largely unused. Even so it became obvious that it was starting to tear from the damp padding below. In general, if you only wet once per night this could be a decent choice for bedwetting, but you wouldn’t want to push your luck if you wet frequently through the night.

2.3 Pattern of Used vs Unused Padding Test Stand/Sit (right) Lying Down (left)


Daily Wear and Bedwetting

The Nona Classic Slip Extra has a lot of great features for what might be considered a budget diaper. It features a plastic backsheet, dual waistbands, a wetness indicator and standing inner leak guards. However, it's relatively weak when it comes to absorbency and I found it can only reliably handle a single wetting without having to worry about leakage. In this way it reminds me a lot of the Depend Protection with Tabs, which is also full featured but with limited absorbency. Yet I found this diaper to be more comfortable than the Depend Protection with Tabs. The backsheet and leg gathers are softer and it feels a little less prone to heat. During testing I was impressed with its leak resistance after a single wetting. It has a fairly large area of padding and very effective wicking. I expected it to leak at least once when sitting after a wetting as often happens with lower absorbency diapers but I never noticed any leakage, nor did I notice any when worn for bedwetting. I suppose it’s possible if wet when sleeping on your side, but the plastic backsheet would likely just redirect it into the rear padding. So I feel very confident in this diaper's ability to consistently avoid leakage if you can change it after a single wetting. That said, it hits saturation fairly quickly and, once hit, leaks are very likely. I found this to be the case after a second wetting and I wouldn’t recommend this if worn for a longer duration without the aid of a booster. Moreover, even after a single wetting there will be some surface dampness which can lead to skin irritation if worn longer. In my case this diaper was generally effective for bedwetting since I rarely have multiple wettings and I found it to be pretty comfortable for this purpose. It wasn’t as good when tested during daily wear, mostly on account of how noisy it tends to be and the more obvious surface dampness when seated. I think it could be a great choice for daily wear when it can be changed shortly after a wetting, perhaps in a care home setting. All in all, I don’t feel I could ask for much more in this diaper given its pricing. I feel it would be great for some cases like bowel incontinence where you need to change immediately following bowel movement or other situations where you’d want to change shortly after a wetting without breaking the bank.


Suitability for Bowel Incontinence: 9

The Nona Classic Slip Extra is well suited for bowel incontinence. In spite of its relatively low absorbency, the padding it does have provides extensive coverage, particularly up the rear. Moreover, it has a plastic backsheet which is often very important in cases of  bowel incontinence. It also features dual waistbands and standing inner leak guards to further block odors and prevent leakage. Not much I would really change for this diaper with respect to how it performs for bowel incontinence, but I think it would be better if it were a bit more absorbent.


Wear & Tear Tests


Fitting

The Nona Classic Slip Extra has two refastenable tapes per side, using the double tape to adhere to its plastic-backsheet. It also features dual waistbands, which are fairly large and flexible, making it easy to arrive at a snug fit. I found the tapes to be good quality during testing and never had an issue with them coming loose on me or weakening much with refastenings.

3.1 Nona Classic Slip Extra Fastener

Ease-of-Use Rating: 9

The Nona Classic Slip Extra is nearly as good as it comes with regards to user friendliness. It’s full featured with dual waistbands, standing inner leak guards and a wetness indicator. The tapes are pretty easy to add/remove, though you may want to be careful when removing for refastening to make sure you don’t pull up the underlying tape; though this is pretty much the case for any double-tape diaper. I found this diaper to be similar to the Carnation Adult Diaper in terms of ease-of-use with the actual stretchiness of the waistband putting this slightly above many other plastic-backed diapers. However, it’s far from the most absorbent on the market, so I’m ranking it assuming it can be changed after it hits a 1 wetting capacity.

3.2 Nona Classic Slip Extra Diaper Fit

Comfort


Comfort Rating (dry): 8

The Nona Classic Slip Extra is reasonably comfortable when dry. It has a soft plastic-backsheet with good heat distribution though less so than the Tena Slip Active Fit Maxi. The padding is fairly soft and covers a large area but is also relatively thin, which can make it feel like more skin is in contact with the backsheet and can increase any sensation from sweat. The thinner padding also makes it somewhat more susceptible to tearing, but I never had much of an issue with clumping in this diaper. Otherwise the fit is good and I never had issues with sagging or loosening while wearing.


Comfort Rating (wet): 6

The Nona Classic Slip Extra was similar to the Carnation Adult Diaper in terms of comfort when wet. It doesn’t have any issues with sagging and the backsheet keeps it relatively cool. I noticed a bit of padding tearing, but little in the way of clumping and the padding wasn’t too different from in its dry state. The primary issue affecting comfort in this diaper is the presence of surface dampness. While not as bad as the Depend Protection with Tabs, the surface dampness in this diaper will be noticeable after a single wetting likely owing to the thin padding and relatively low absorbency.

3.3 Nona Classic Slip Extra Topsheet and Backsheet

Durability

Dry Padding Deterioration Proportion: 15% (topsheet), 13.5% (backsheet)
Shake Deterioration Test: 10 shakes to deterioration


Durability Rating (dry): 7
The Nona Classic Slip Extra came in a bit above average for dry durability. The thin padding was susceptible to tears and a fair amount of deterioration showed up after the dry durability test. However, little was in critical parts of the diaper and I didn’t notice any clumping. Even so, the padding thinness made the wetness indicator quite susceptible to sweat/minor drips/dribbles. Aside from that I found the tapes of this diaper to have good adhesiveness and they remained effective after multiple refastenings.


Durability Rating (wet): 7

The wet durability of the Nona Classic Slip Extra lined up with its dry durability. Again it was a little susceptible to padding tears but not clumping and the core padding remained well intact. It also performed surprisingly well in the “shake test”, withstanding 10 shakes before any significant sign of deterioration. However, I didn’t weigh this heavily in my scoring and diapers with thinner padding tended to do better in this test. Aside from that, the tapes on this diaper could easily hold up to added weight when wet and I never felt it loosening.

3.4 Nona Classic Slip Extra Dry Test Deterioration

Discretion Tests


Profile

Front Rise Above Waistline (Jeans, Sweatpants): 5 cm (2"), 4 cm (1.6")
Back Rise Above Waistline (Jeans, Sweatpants): 5.5 cm (2.2"), 4 cm (1.6")
Side Rise Above Waistline (Jeans, Sweatpants): 3.5 cm (1.4"), 2 cm (0.8")

Profile Discretion Rating: 7

The profile of the Nona Classic Slip Extra is comparable to the EasySlip Night or Attends Care Poly Briefs. The padding is thin but spacious so it can show a bit of a diaper bulge, particularly at the rear. However, I feel this can be easily concealed under meshpants or underwear. Moreover, there isn’t a significant difference between its wet and dry states.

4.1 Nona Classic Slip Extra Jeans Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right)

4.2 Nona Classic Slip Extra Sweats Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right) 


Noise

Noise Rating: 5

The thinness of the padding in the Nona Classic Slip Extra works against its ability to dampen noise. This is a common issue with thinner plastic-backed diapers. There’s not much to force the padding to hold its shape so it tends to fold with movement, causing a distinctive crinkling noise, particularly when wet. I feel this could be mitigated to some extent with meshpants or underwear but I still feel it’d be tough to conceal completely.

4.3 Nona Classic Slip Extra Noise Profile

Odor Reduction

Odor Reduction Rating: 8
The Nona Classic Slip Extra excels in containment of odors. It owes this largely to the snugness of its fit with very flexible leg gathers and waistbands. That said, it’s not perfect as the padding is fairly thin and susceptible to surface dampness, so it might be more fair to say it’s containing odors rather than reducing them. Thus I can’t rate it at the top of the market in this regard, but for many this should be good enough.


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Saturday 10 December 2022

Top 10 Adult Diapers 2022 Rankings

*For information on how I do reviews see Diaper Test Methodology
 
 

Summary

Seasons greetings! Now coming on three years since we began reviewing adult diapers we've completed 48 reviews, nearly doubling the number of reviews used to determine the 2021 top 10 adult diaper rankings. Additionally, we've done our first review of reusable protective underwear, giving a completely different product perspective. Many of the diapers that ranked highly in our previous review continued to take the overall top 10 ranking with the Seni Super Quartro, BetterDry/Crinklz, Tena Slip Active Fit Ultima and ConfiDry 24/7 continuing to dominate the top spots. However, there were substantial shifts in the individual ranking categories for Absorbency, Comfort, Durability and Discretion with more specialty diapers tested in the previous year.
 
For this year's rankings we will be using the same scoring formulas as were used in the 2021 rankings but we now only take the top product for each brand to fill out our overall rankings to reduce repetition. We've also merged similar product lines of differing absorbency like the Tena Slip Active Fit Maxi and Tena Slip Active Fit Ultima in the individual ranking categories. However, for this review we've included a table at the bottom with a direct comparison of the ratings for every product reviewed. I understanding this isn't a perfect solution to compare statistics but hopefully it will make product comparisons at least a little easier for the time being. We've received a lot of feedback around making these statistics more accessible and when I have the time and funds available promise I do plan on building out a website to make these comparisons much easier.

We were hoping to review some more diverse products this year like boosters and protective underwear, but have been surprised by the number of adult diapers on the market and prioritized those first, so maybe next year. Moreover, these reviews take a surprising amount of time/effort so we really appreciate the feedback we've received over the previous year! We also want to give a special shout out to Night and Day LLC and Carer for providing the Nexgen diapers and reusable underwear samples used in this year's reviews!
 
Since we launched our suggestion form last year we've received a number of great suggestions. We've managed to get through quite a few of them, but some have proven to be quite expensive or nearly impossible to order from Canada. If anyone is interested in helping contribute to our next reviews we've compiled some Amazon wish lists that include the review suggestions or similar products. Alternatively, if you'd like to help support our reviews at no cost simply use our Adult Diapers affiliate link when you make your next purchase of incontinence supplies through Amazon. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

p.s. Amazon.ca has the best shipping rates here, but relatively limited product selection, apologies if there are shipping costs on the others


 

Amazon Germany Review Suggestions Wish List

Amazon France Review Suggestions Wish List


Absorbency Ranking

The absorbency ranking is based on the same scoring formula described in the 2020 top 10. The formula accounts for average absorption during testing, the amount absorbed per area of padding as well as other characteristics that improve performance in this regard. It produces a score between 1-10 with higher scores indicating better absorbency performance. Rankings narrowed further this year with the review of more high absorbency ABDL oriented diapers, but a few of the products from last year's review retained a spot in the top 10. Notable runners up include the Drylife SlipSuper, Abena Abri-Form M4 and NorthShore MegaMax.

 
DiaperScoring
Score: 9.47
Absorbency: 2158 ml (76.1 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 1.14 ml/cm2 (0.26 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 9
Lying Down Score: 10
Used Percent: 80
Score: 9.45
Absorbency: 2075 ml (73.2 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 1.07 ml/cm2 (0.24 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 10
Lying Down Score: 10
Used Percent: 79
Score: 9.42
Absorbency: 1895 ml (66.8 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 1.17 ml/cm2 (0.27 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 10
Lying Down Score: 10
Used Percent: 93

 
Score: 8.82
Absorbency: 1834 ml (42.6 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 1.14 ml/cm2 (0.26 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 9
Lying Down Score: 9
Used Percent: 76
Score: 8.66
Absorbency: 1492 ml (52.6 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 1.33 ml/cm2 (0.30 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 8
Lying Down Score: 9
Used Percent: 93
Score: 8.44
Absorbency: 1475 ml (52.0 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 1.08 ml/cm2 (0.25 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 9
Lying Down Score: 9
Used Percent: 96
Score: 8.26
Absorbency: 1449 ml (52.1 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 1.01 ml/cm2 (0.23 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 8
Lying Down Score: 8
Used Percent: 86
Score: 8.24
Absorbency: 1601 ml (56.5 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 0.88 ml/cm2 (0.20 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 8
Lying Down Score: 10
Used Percent: 88
Score: 8.16
Absorbency: 1609 ml (56.7 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 0.89 ml/cm2 (0.20 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 9
Lying Down Score: 9
Used Percent: 72
Score: 8.06
Absorbency: 1572 ml (55.4 oz)
Absorbency Ratio: 0.85 ml/cm2 (0.19 oz/in2)
Leg Gathers: yes
Inner Leak Guards: yes
Stand/Sit Score: 9
Lying Down Score: 9
Used Percent: 86



Comfort Ranking

The comfort ranking is also based on the 2020 rankings formula. This formula accounts for aspects of performance like surface dampness and breathability. It also accounts for scoring on comfort in dry and wet states and padding softness. There were four new additions to this year's rankings for comfort but the Seni Super Quatro retained its top spot. Close runners up included the Forma-Care X-Plus, Prevail Air Overnight, and Molicare Slip Maxi.


DiaperScoring
Score: 9.31
Padding Area: 1435 cm2 (222 in2)
Absorbency Time: 42 s
Dry Comfort Score: 10
Wet Comfort Score: 10
Surface Dampness Score: 9
Ease of Use Score: 10
Score: 9.03
Padding Area: 1625 cm2 (252 in2)
Absorbency Time: 58 s
Dry Comfort Score: 9
Wet Comfort Score: 10
Surface Dampness Score: 10
Ease of Use Score: 10
Score: 8.89
Padding Area: 1823 cm2 (282 in2)
Absorbency Time: 56 s
Dry Comfort Score: 9
Wet Comfort Score: 10
Surface Dampness Score: 9
Ease of Use Score: 8
Score: 8.77
Padding Area: 1120 cm2 (174 in2)
Absorbency Time: 48 s
Dry Comfort Score: 10
Wet Comfort Score: 10
Surface Dampness Score: 8
Ease of Use Score: 7
Score: 8.72
Padding Area: 1823 cm2 (283 in2)
Absorbency Time: 97 s
Dry Comfort Score: 9
Wet Comfort Score: 10
Surface Dampness Score: 9
Ease of Use Score: 10
Score: 8.63
Padding Area: 1611 cm2 (250 in2)
Absorbency Time: 85 s
Dry Comfort Score: 9
Wet Comfort Score: 10
Surface Dampness Score: 9
Ease of Use Score: 9
Score: 8.59
Padding Area: 1840 cm2 (285 in2)
Absorbency Time: 41 s
Dry Comfort Score: 10
Wet Comfort Score: 8
Surface Dampness Score: 7
Ease of Use Score: 7
Score: 8.43
Padding Area: 1594 cm2 (247 in2)
Absorbency Time: 46 s
Dry Comfort Score: 9
Wet Comfort Score: 9
Surface Dampness Score: 8
Ease of Use Score: 7
Score: 8.33
Padding Area: 1756 cm2 (272 in2)
Absorbency Time: 47 s
Dry Comfort Score: 10
Wet Comfort Score: 8
Surface Dampness Score: 7
Ease of Use Score: 7
Score: 8.26
Padding Area: 975 cm2 (151 in2)
Absorbency Time: 61 s
Dry Comfort Score: 10
Wet Comfort Score: 9
Surface Dampness Score: 7
Ease of Use Score: 10


Durability Ranking

In this year's durability ranking we've reused the adjusted formula from the 2021 durability rankings. This formula accounts for how much padding is destroyed after extended wear/tear, how well the tapes hold up and whether the padding is prone to clumps or tears. Interestingly enough most of the diapers from last year's review retained their durability ranking, with a bit of movement near the bottom of the list. Also of interest is that there seems to be some correlation between absorbency and padding durability, but it didn't apply universally and the premium European diapers generally held up best.


DiaperScoring
Score: 9.44
Tape Area: 45 cm2 (7.0 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 10
Wet Durability Score: 10
Shake Test: 12
Topsheet Deterioration: 0.55%
Backsheet Deterioration: 1.38%
Waistband: rear
Score: 9.25
Tape Area: 60 cm2 (9.3 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 10
Wet Durability Score: 10
Shake Test: 4
Topsheet Deterioration: 0.58%
Backsheet Deterioration: 2.61%
Waistband: front/rear
Score: 8.96
Tape Area: 40 cm2 (6.2 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 10
Wet Durability Score: 10
Shake Test: 3
Topsheet Deterioration: 0.53%
Backsheet Deterioration: 1.09%
Waistband: rear
Score: 8.89
Tape Area: 45 cm2 (7 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 10
Wet Durability Score: 10
Shake Test: 7
Topsheet Deterioration: 0.54%
Backsheet Deterioration: 0.56%
Waistband: none
Score: 8.87
Tape Area: 69 cm2 (10.7 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 9
Wet Durability Score: 9
Shake Test: 4
Topsheet Deterioration: 1.22%
Backsheet Deterioration: 1.78%
Waistband: front/rear
Score: 8.77
Tape Area: 72 cm2 (10.7 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 9
Wet Durability Score: 9
Shake Test: 4
Topsheet Deterioration: 4.13%
Backsheet Deterioration: 1.61%
Waistband: front/rear
Score: 8.57
Tape Area: 40 cm2 (6.2 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 9
Wet Durability Score: 9
Shake Test: 5
Topsheet Deterioration: 6.16%
Backsheet Deterioration: 6.56%
Waistband: front/rear
Score: 8.50
Tape Area: 64 cm2 (9.9 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 9
Wet Durability Score: 9
Shake Test: 2
Topsheet Deterioration: 7.79%
Backsheet Deterioration: 4.69%
Waistband: front/rear
Score: 8.46
Tape Area: 45 cm2 (7 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 9
Wet Durability Score: 9
Shake Test: 2
Topsheet Deterioration: 5.63%
Backsheet Deterioration: 3.25%
Waistband: front/rear
Score: 8.31
Tape Area: 50 cm2 (7.8 in2)
Dry Durability Score: 9
Wet Durability Score: 8
Shake Test: 6
Topsheet Deterioration: 1.71%
Backsheet Deterioration: 2.33%
Waistband: rear

Discretion Ranking

The discretion ranking formula remains unchanged from the 2020 top adult diapers formula. This ranking measures overall discretion. It accounts for the bulkiness of the diaper, how noisy it is, whether it is prone to odors and how far it rides above the waistline. To a lesser extent it accounts for the fact that less absorbent diapers will be more discreet when dry but will be glaringly obvious if they leak. The top discretion rankings tend to be lower than other areas because of competing attributes. For instance, plastic-backed diapers tend to be better at reducing odors, yet the plastic-backsheet contributes to more noise. There was some notable movement on this list compared with last year, with the Egosan Ultra, Lille SupremFit Maxi and Attends Slip Regular Plus just barely being bumped from the top 10.


DiaperScoring
Score: 7.63
Profile Discretion Score: 9
Noise Score: 9
Odor Reduction Score: 10
Dry Weight: 125 g (4.4 oz)
Folded Length: 25 cm (9.8")
Wet Folded Thickness: 5 cm (2")
Average Rise Above Waist: 4.4 cm (1.7")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.8")
Score: 7.46
Profile Discretion Score: 8
Noise Score: 10
Odor Reduction Score: 9
Dry Weight: 116 g (4.1 oz)
Folded Length: 24 cm (9.5")
Wet Folded Thickness: 4.5 cm (1.8")
Average Rise Above Waist: 5.1 cm (2")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.8")
Score: 7.34
Profile Discretion Score: 9
Noise Score: 9
Odor Reduction Score: 10
Dry Weight: 108 g (3.8 oz)
Folded Length: 26 cm (10.2")
Wet Folded Thickness: 3 cm (1.18")
Average Rise Above Waist: 5.3 cm (2.1")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.8")
Score: 7.29
Profile Discretion Score: 8
Noise Score: 10
Odor Reduction Score: 7
Dry Weight: 100 g (3.5 oz)
Folded Length: 21.5 cm (8.5")
Wet Folded Thickness: 5 cm (2")
Average Rise Above Waist: 3.6 cm (1.4")
Dry Folded Thickness: 1.5 cm (0.6")
Score: 7.27
Profile Discretion Score: 8
Noise Score: 9
Odor Reduction Score: 9
Dry Weight: 100 g (3.5 oz)
Folded Length: 21 cm (8.3")
Wet Folded Thickness: 5 cm (2")
Average Rise Above Waist: 5.8 cm (2.3")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2.5 cm (1")
Score: 7.26
Profile Discretion Score: 7
Noise Score: 10
Odor Reduction Score: 10
Dry Weight: 158 g (5.6 oz)
Folded Length: 25 cm (9.8")
Wet Folded Thickness: 5 cm (2")
Average Rise Above Waist: 3.8 cm (1.5")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2.7 cm (1.06")
Score: 7.24
Profile Discretion Score: 9
Noise Score: 9
Odor Reduction Score: 8
Dry Weight: 117 g (4.13 oz)
Folded Length: 23 cm (9.1")
Wet Folded Thickness: 4.5 cm (1.8")
Average Rise Above Waist: 5.2 cm (2")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2.3 cm (0.9")
Score: 7.01
Profile Discretion Score: 8
Noise Score: 10
Odor Reduction Score: 7
Dry Weight: 150 g (5.3 oz)
Folded Length: 24 cm (9.5")
Wet Folded Thickness: 5 cm (2")
Average Rise Above Waist: 3.6 cm (1.4")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2.3 cm (0.9")
Score: 6.86
Profile Discretion Score: 8
Noise Score: 9
Odor Reduction Score: 7
Dry Weight: 100 g (3.5 oz)
Folded Length: 23 cm (9.1")
Wet Folded Thickness: 5 cm (2")
Average Rise Above Waist: 5.3 cm (2.1")
Dry Folded Thickness: 2.3 cm (0.9")
Score: 6.74
Profile Discretion Score: 7
Noise Score: 10
Odor Reduction Score: 7
Dry Weight: 142 g (5 oz)
Folded Length: 22 cm (8.7")
Wet Folded Thickness: 5 cm (2")
Average Rise Above Waist: 4.7 cm (1.8")
Dry Folded Thickness: 3 cm (1.2")



Overall Top 10 Ranking

This year's top 10 overall ranking again follows the formula used to calculate the top 10 from 2020 and 2021. The formula combines scores for absorbency, comfort, durability and discretion to produce an overall ranking. One thing we've changed in this year's ranking is that we've limited this ranking to only the best of each brand. This is intended to reduce any biases and give readers a greater diversity of diapers to evaluate in case a particular brand isn't available locally or has an awkward sizing. Notable, the Seni Super Plus, Tena Slip Active Fit Maxi, Tena PROskin Flex Maxi, NorthShore MegaMax and Attends Premier Briefs Overnight also attained scoring that would put them among these top 10 but were not the top performers under their specific brands. Once again, the value you find in these rankings will depend on your personal needs and preferences, if a particular product aspect is of high importance to you then you may find the rankings above more useful to suit your needs. 

There was less movement than expected in this year's overall ranking when compared to the 2021 rankings. Likely, at least in part, due to the way I prioritized the earlier reviews. The top 5 remained unchanged owing to their strong performance in all categories. Nevertheless, there were two new additions to this year's top 10 ranking with the ABU PeekABU coming tied with the Drylife SlipSuper for 6th place and the Forma-Care X-Plus M4 bumping its way to 9th. There was far more movement below the top 10 with all the new reviews bumping previous poor performers further down the list. The gap between the top of these 10 and bottom further narrowed this year, while the total difference between the top and bottom rated diapers remained the same. Once again, the Seni Super Quatro topped this list with a score of 8.57 and the Attends Care Waistband came in at the bottom of the list with a score of 4.04. These scores were adjusted slightly lower from last year's scores as the addition of new diapers stretched previously established scales in areas like absorbency, reducing the relative scoring of the others.

DiaperScoring
Score: 8.57
The Seni Super Quatro once again came in at the top spot. This diaper may not be the most absorbent, but when comfort, durability and discretion are factored in this one is hard to beat overall. It's cloth-backed, but it's well worth a try if you're willing to give it a chance. Product consistency appears to be very good in the Seni lineup, more so than many others on the market.
Score: 8.54
The BetterDry/Crinklz diaper retained it's spot at second place. When tested in 2020 this diaper proved exceptionally absorbent but also comfortable and somewhat discreet for a diaper of its absorbency. That said, readers have informed us of some quality issues in more recent batches. We've also learned the leak guards on this diaper, as well as many others, can break down when exposed to diaper rash cream. I'm hoping the quality issues are just a supply chain blip, but I'll provide an update when I get my next batch. For now, maybe start with a bag before buying a case.
Score: 8.33
The Tena Slip Ultima is a more absorbent version of the popular Tena Slip Maxi. It features the same smooth-comfortable plastic-backsheet and a surprisingly discreet design. As far as plastic-backed diapers, it may well be the most comfortable on the market. There are very few trade-offs in this diaper and it would be perfectly fine for a day out.
Score: 8.00
The ConfiDry 24/7 has proven quite polarizing over the last few years. There have been reports of bad batches in the past, but recent feedback has been quite positive. One interesting finding from one of our readers regards its durability against diaper rash creams. Whereas many others had durability issues the ConfiDry was one of the few to keep its form against the chemicals in those products. I'm happy to see ConfiDry weathered the storm, if you want something truly different this would be a great choice.
Score: 7.90
The NorthShore Supreme diaper made it to the top five ranks last year and retained its position in this years rankings. It's similar to the Drylife SlipSuper or iD Slip Maxi (PE) but with a bit more absorbency. This diaper proved highly durable and comfortable. Some have found its padding to be a bit firm but it makes up for it in other aspects. It also runs more compact in sizing like many premium European diapers.
Score: 7.87
The Drylife SlipSuper is a great all around diaper and surprisingly affordable when it's available. Its padding is a little on the stiff side, though it softens when wet. This diaper is a tank when it comes to durability and held its own in terms of absorbency.
Score: 7.87
The ABU PeekABU is a new addition to the top 10 list and was essentially tied with the Drylife SlipSuper for 6th place. This diaper makes no effort to be discreet, but packs a very high absorbency as well as ranking relatively high in terms of comfort and durability. However, it also comes at a very high price.
Score: 7.67
The Attends Slip Regular Plus keeps its spot as the top Attends diaper on the market. It's comparable to the Tena Slip line of products. It's backed with a very smooth/comfortable plastic and provides a great combination of durability and discretion. It feels well suited to active wear and where it can be found the pricing seems reasonable.
Score: 7.66
The Forma-Care X-Plus is a new entry to the top 10 overall rankings from this past year's review. This diaper has a distinctive blue backsheet with a soft, comfortable padding. This diaper is plastic-backed but quite good at heat distribution and the plastic is smooth, similar to the Tena Slip products.
Score: 7.60
The iD Expert Slip Maxi (PE) just barely made this year's list with some strong competition from more absorbent but less durable/discreet diapers. This diaper is similar to the Drylife SlipSuper and is highly durable. Unfortunately, it's difficult to find these days and may well be discontinued (this was reviewed in 2020).


All Tested Diapers by Overall Rank

I've compiled the scores in each category for all the diapers tested so far into the list below. The list is sorted by overall ranking from the top to bottom scoring diapers. All reviews were conducted on medium-sized diapers unless otherwise specified.


Diaper Absorbency Comfort Durability Discretion Overall
Seni Super Quatro Briefs 8.26 9.31 9.25 7.26 8.57
BetterDry M10/Crinklz 9.42 9.03 8.8 6.28 8.54
Tena Slip Active Fit Ultima 8.66 8.77 8.11 7.54 8.33
ConfiDry 24/7 8.24 8.72 8.77 5.79 8
Seni Super Plus 7.05 8.7 8.87 7.01 7.91
NorthShore Supreme Briefs 8.44 7.85 8.96 5.83 7.9
Drylife SlipSuper 7.88 7.78 9.44 6.01 7.87
ABU PeekABU 8.82 8.63 8.04 5.26 7.87
Tena Slip Active Fit Maxi 7.52 8.26 8.04 7.63 7.86
Tena PROskin Flex Maxi 7.09 8.26 8.46 7.46 7.8
NorthShore MegaMax (S) 7.48 8.89 8.47 5.61 7.71
Attends Slip Regular Plus 10M 7.17 8.43 8.31 6.67 7.67
Forma-Care X-Plus M4 7.37 8.25 8.57 6.22 7.66
Attends Premier Briefs Overnight 7.48 8.59 8.1 6 7.61
iD Expert Slip Maxi (PE) 7.62 7.25 8.89 6.39 7.6
Tykables Little Rawrs 9.47 7.3 7.89 4.69 7.58
Rearz Barnyard 9.45 7.14 7.97 4.67 7.55
Nextgen Absorbent Plus (L) 6.98 8.17 7.89 6.39 7.39
Nexgen Absorbent Plus (M) 6.71 8.33 7.75 6.74 7.38
Forsite AM/PM 8.16 6.95 8.5 5.21 7.35
Beesana Super Slip 7.47 7.97 7.31 6.2 7.3
Prevail Air Overnight 6.31 8.22 7.58 7.27 7.3
Bambino Karnevalee 8.06 7.21 7.93 5.09 7.22
Molicare Slip Maxi 7.05 8.09 7.65 5.48 7.15
Egosan Ultra 7.42 7.19 6.9 6.69 7.09
Medline Extended Wear Briefs 7.11 7.09 7 7.01 7.06
EasySlip Night 6.03 7.62 7.89 6.67 7.02
Attends Slip Active M10 6.36 7.32 6.78 7.29 6.89
NorthShore AirSupreme Briefs 7.26 6.94 7.02 6.09 6.89
Abena Abri-Form M4 7.58 7.11 7.31 4.77 6.83
Tena Stretch Brief Super 5.33 7.63 7.29 7.24 6.78
Lille SupremFit Maxi 7.11 6.22 6.84 6.68 6.73
Tranquility Smartcore 5.67 7.79 6.83 6.86 6.73
Tranquility ATN 6.2 7.1 6.68 6.32 6.57
Tena PROskin Stretch Night 5.78 6.54 6.65 6.88 6.41
Unicharm Lifree Adult Diaper 3.79 7.67 7.14 6.4 6.12
Abena Delta-Form M3 5.78 6.21 6.61 5.88 6.11
Depend Protection with Tabs (S/M) 5.36 4.66 8.03 6.62 6.1
Attento Tape Adult Diapers 3.11 7.54 7.16 7.34 6.07
FitRight Restore Briefs 5.27 6.53 5.82 6.53 5.97
Carnation KNH Standard Adult Diaper 3.76 6.83 6.99 6.2 5.83
FitRight Ultra Briefs 4.05 6.04 6.08 6.6 5.56
Certainty Adult Diapers 4.29 6.46 5.84 5.93 5.55
Wellness Briefs Original 4.65 6.37 5.84 5.17 5.48
First Quality Briefs (Full Mat) 2.26 5.82 6.49 6.04 4.96
Healthy Spirit Breathable Disposable Adult Diaper Briefs Super Absorbent 2.45 4.95 5.09 6.52 4.55
Attends Care Poly Briefs 3.18 5.34 4.37 5.17 4.41
Attends Care Waistband 3.17 3.67 4.2 5.61 4.04