The Softex Adult Diaper is an interesting Southeast Asian diaper. It appears to be an Indonesian brand, though the marketing is different depending on where you look and the original company was bought by Kimberly-Clark in 2020. The Thai version of the product is made in Malaysia, but with subtle Japanese marketing. Regardless of its origins, this diaper demonstrates fairly good performance compared with many cheaper diapers in the region. It consistently absorbed a full wetting without leakage during both daily wear and bedwetting and proved very comfortable and durable during testing. I feel it’d be a good choice for those who need frequent changes or those who prefer a plastic-backed diaper but have had issues with overheating or need to wear in hot weather.
Key Features:
Plastic backsheet
Repositionable tapes
Standing inner leak barriers
Wetness indicator
Textured landing zone
Pros:
Comfortable and durable
Decent absorbency
Easy to get a snug fit
Good pricing
Cons:
Thin padding/susceptible to tear
Surface dampness issues
Limited availability
Product Details
For the purpose of this post I will be reviewing and referring to the medium-sized Softex Adult Diaper. However, other available sizes are listed below:
Packaging
Brand: Softex Manufacturer: Nina Manufacture Co.,LTD. Origin: Malaysia Units Per Bag: 10 Cost Per Unit: $ Dimensions (L x W x H): 29 cm (11.4") x 15 cm (5.9") x 24 cm (9.5") Weight: 0.93 kg (2.0 lbs) Available Sizes: M, L Advertised Absorbency: Heavy
1.1 Softex Adult Diaper Packaging
Diaper
Backsheet: Plastic (poly) Wetness Indicator: Yes (blue text down middle, fades when wet) Standing Inner Leak Guards: Yes Leg Gathers: Yes Product Style: Tab-Style Brief Refastenable Tabs: Yes Number of Tapes: 2 Repositionable Tabs: Yes Outer Color: White (blue dot and numbered pattern on landing zone) Inner Color: White Front Waistband: No Rear Waistband: No Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.79") Folded Length: 24 cm (9.5") Dry Weight: 93 g (3.3 oz) Fragrance: No Diaper Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 80 cm (31.5") x 64 cm (25.2") x 33 cm (13") x 60 cm (23.6") Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Rectangular, Rectangular Padding Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 64 cm (25.2") x 30 cm (11.8") x 19 cm (7.5") x 36 cm (14.2") Padding Wing Dimensions (fPW x fPH x bPW x bPH): 5.5 cm (2.2") x 14 cm (5.5") x 8.5 cm (3.4") x 17 cm (6.7") Padding Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Semicircle, Semicircle Total Padding Area: 1659 cm2 (257 in2) Tape Spacing (t1 x t2): 5.5 cm (2.2") x 15 cm (5.9") Tape (W x L): 2.5 cm (1") x 4 cm (1.6")
1.2 Softex Adult Diaper
Laboratory Absorbency Tests
Total Absorption Volume (after press out): 702 ml (24.8 oz) Total Absorption Volume (before press out): 707 ml (24.9 oz) Time to Absorb Wettings (first to last): (93 s, 149 s, 150 s) Wet Folded Thickness: 4 cm (1.6") Used to Total Padding Ratio: 73% Total Padding to Absorbency Ratio: 0.42 ml / cm2 (0.10 oz / in2) Press Out Volume: 5 ml (0.18 oz)
Surface Dampness Rating: 4
During the lab test, the Softex diaper demonstrated noticeable surface dampness even after the first wetting. It was also quite apparent during real world testing, where I found there was consistent pooling and frequent pressout moisture. It’s hardly the worst on the market in this regard, but still far from the best performers like the BetterDry or Seni Super Quatro.
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: 682 ml (24.1 oz) Total Wettings: (1 standing, 1 sitting) Leaked After Sitting: No Used to Total Padding Ratio: 65% Padding to Absorbency Score: 0.41 ml / cm2 (0.09 oz / in2)
Standing-Sitting Rating: 6 When testing the Softex Adult Tape Diaper, the first wetting while standing was fully absorbed with no obvious leakage upon sitting shortly after. During the first wetting there was some obvious initial pooling but it was effectively wicked through the padding. I was surprised because I thought this diaper would feel damp immediately after a wetting but that wasn’t the case and it remained comfortable. Much of the lower padding was used but there were still dry areas up the front and rear. On the second wetting while seated, the padding at the front of the diaper quickly reached saturation and became squishy. Shortly after, there was a significant leak through the rear leg gathers and I ended the test at that. Surprisingly, at the end of the test there was still a significant amount of unused padding at the rear. This diaper should be good for at least one wetting during daily wear, though it’s likely to leak when seated after the second wetting.
Lying Down
Total Absorbed Volume: 907 ml (32 oz) Total Wettings: 2 Used to Total Padding Ratio: 91% Padding to Absorbency Score: 0.55 ml / cm2 (0.12 oz / in2)
Lying Down Rating: 7
The Softex diaper performed better than expected when tested while lying down. On the first wetting there was initial pooling but not long after it was distributed through the padding with no hint of leakage. The diaper’s leak barriers did a good job at redirecting moisture. I did notice some surface dampness that seemed to persist after the wetting but it still didn’t feel saturated. On the second wetting there was initially substantial pooling and some moisture made it into the wings. Surprisingly, there was only a relatively small leak in the rear leg gathers afterward and even a bit of unused padding even though most of the padding was saturated. I stopped the test at that point because it was clearly saturated and the leak, though small, was significant enough it would leave a mark on bedding. This diaper stands out for the remarkable ability of its structure to contain moisture even when the padding is saturated. I believe that owes to the relatively wide area of padding and plastic-backsheet coverage coupled with the effective leak guards. I expect this diaper will typically take 1~2 wettings without leakage when worn for bedwetting.
2.3 Pattern of Used vs Unused Padding Test Stand/Sit (right) Lying Down (left)
Daily Wear and Bedwetting
The Softex Adult Diaper has a similar design to the Certainty or Carnation diapers and from my experience seems to be at the higher end of what you’d find from adult diapers in Southeast Asia. It has a thin but very extensive honeycomb-like padding, which is very soft and comfortable. Like most diapers in the region, this one uses a soft plastic backsheet and is mostly full featured with a textured tape landing zone, but lacks a waistband. During testing I found its absorbency to be higher than I expected, with moisture wicked through the padding and the snug design doing a good job at directing it away from the barriers. This made it less susceptible to leakage than you might otherwise expect, given the thin padding. I feel that advantage is more apparent when worn for bedwetting because you’re less likely to put pressure on it and the design will continue to resist leaks until well after the padding hits saturation. During daily wear, it’s more likely to have issues if you’re seated and moisture gets a chance to leak through the padding. Its biggest downside is the susceptibility to surface dampness, and this is amplified by pressout when seated. Even so, in my testing I found it could usually handle at least one wetting before leakage would happen during daily wear. The backsheet design is very flexible and durable and will hold up well during activities, with the tapes being notable in their strength. However, the padding has a tendency to deteriorate and it can come loose from the backsheet, causing a lot of noise with movement. So from a discretion perspective you probably don’t want to wear this diaper when going out if you’re conscious about people noticing it. But from a price perspective, it comes at a very affordable unit cost and is perfect for those who need frequent changes.
Suitability for Bowel Incontinence: 8
Although its overall absorbency is lacking, the Softex should perform reasonably for bowel incontinence, where absorbency may not matter as much when you need a quick change. It has extensive rear padding, a plastic backsheet, and strong inner leak guards, which are essential for dealing with bowel incontinence. The tapes also provide an exceptionally strong grip and it should have no issue holding up with additional weight. It would be nice if it had a waistband and was better with surface dampness to cut back on odors, but otherwise I think most will find this a reasonable/affordable choice for dealing with bowel incontinence.
Wear & Tear Tests
Fitting
The Softex Adult Diaper has a plastic backsheet with a patterned landing zone and adhesive tape fasteners. The material is somewhat similar to the Carnation or Certainty adult diapers with a relatively soft plastic and thin honeycomb-like textured padding. Tapes can be refastened and repositioned multiple times after the first application and the patterned landing zone makes it easy to reproduce a good fit.
3.1 Softex Adult Diaper Fastener
Ease-of-Use Rating: 9
I rank the Softex Adult Diaper the same as the Carnation and Certainty diapers for ease-of-use. I found it fairly easy to get a snug fit with this diaper. The landing zone pattern was very helpful because once I figured it out I was able to achieve the same fit every time. The refastenable tapes are also very easy to use and this diaper has beneficial features like standing inner leak guards and a wetness indicator. I did find the wetness indicator to be a bit susceptible to sweat or minor dribbles, but otherwise was fine. Perhaps it could benefit from the addition of waistbands but I have no significant complaints about this diaper when it comes to ease-of-use.
3.2 Softex Adult Diaper Fit
Comfort
Comfort Rating (dry): 9
The Softex Adult Diaper is among the top performers when it comes to dry comfort. In spite of its plastic backsheet this diaper feels quite light and breathable. The plastic is quite flexible (albeit noisy) which reduces resistance that comes with movement. Moreover, the thin padding makes it great for heat dissipation (though at a cost to absorbency). It also has the advantage of very extensive padding, meaning less backsheet is in direct contact with the skin. All in all, I was pretty happy with its comfort but couldn’t quite rank it among the best in this category as I still felt the leg gathers could be a little softer and the padding is far from the most durable.
Comfort Rating (wet): 6
The Softex diaper is near mid-rank for what I’d consider to be comfort when wet. It does a pretty good job at distributing heat, yet, it’s quite susceptible to surface dampness and initial pooling during a wetting. I found this to be more of an issue when seated as there was occasional pressout moisture. Otherwise, the padding held up alright, without noticeable clumping but bits of tearing like in its dry state. When wet the padding has a bit of a squishiness to it, but doesn’t swell to a large extent. Aside from that it has absolutely no issues retaining its structure with the tapes holding out remarkably well under its wet weight.
Durability Rating (dry): 6 The padding on this diaper is quite thin and seems susceptible to tearing/deterioration. This is the primary reason I’m not scoring it higher than I otherwise might given its strong structure. In terms of the fasteners I found they held up incredibly well through testing and I never had issues with it becoming loose or tapes losing their grip after multiple fastenings. Were it not for the padding deterioration it could be a great choice for active wear.
Durability Rating (wet): 7
Interestingly enough the Softex diaper proved fairly durable when wet. Padding deterioration from its dry state was still an issue but not to a greater extent and it performed unexpectedly well in the “shake test”. Other than that, the fasteners had no issue holding up under the weight of the wet diaper, with no signs of sagging. Since padding deterioration was mostly in non-core parts of the padding it had limit impact on absorbency so I didn’t count it to be as great a factor in terms of wet durability.
3.4 Softex Adult Diaper Dry Test Deterioration
Discretion Tests
Profile
Front Rise Above Waistline (Jeans, Sweatpants): 5 cm (2"), 5 cm (2") Back Rise Above Waistline (Jeans, Sweatpants): 7 cm (2.8"), 6 cm (2.4") Side Rise Above Waistline (Jeans, Sweatpants): 5 cm (2"), 5 cm (2")
Profile Discretion Rating: 8
The Softex diaper has a pretty snug fit and is thin and flexible such that it can fairly easily be hidden under clothing. I would say it has a bit of a bulge at the rear, but one that could easily be concealed under underwear or meshpants.
4.1 Softex Adult Diaper Jeans Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right)
4.2 Softex Adult Diaper Sweats Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right)
Noise
Noise Rating: 6
This diaper is in the same category as the Carnation and Certainty diapers when it comes to noise. The plastic backsheet is very easy to disturb and somewhat separates from the padding, giving it a distinctive diaper crinkling noise when standing up or sitting down. It can be dampened a bit with meshpants or underwear but you’re still going to get a bit of it. Otherwise, I noticed it a little less when walking.
4.3 Softex Adult Diaper Noise Profile
Odor Reduction
Odor Reduction Rating: 7 The plastic backsheet and snug fit of this diaper go a ways to cutting back on odors, even if the thin padding and surface dampness makes it more susceptible to formation of odors. I didn’t notice odors too often during wear, but I don’t rank this with top performers, like the Tena Slip Active Fit Maxi, in this regard. I also feel that waistbands could be beneficial in cutting back on odors in this diaper.
* I've adjusted my Diaper Test Methodology to account for the unique aspects of these reusable incontinence products (see the first part of this series for details)
Summary
This review comes as the second part of our series on Carer Incontinence reusable incontinence underwear. In the first review, we reviewed the M65, M66, and M67 men’s protective underwear as well as the SJK01 women’s protective underwear. In this review we’re going to be covering the men’s M303 protective underwear and women’s M001, W302, W303 protective underwear. Carer’s products are well suited to those with light-to-moderate urinary incontinence and are completely washable and reusable, making them a cost effective alternative to disposable products. These underwear look, fit and feel just like regular underwear. For this reason, they could either be used stand-alone for lighter incontinence or combined with incontinence pads or boosters to provide a greater degree of protection. Personally, I feel they’re best suited to intermittent incontinence like stress incontinence as, given some time, they actually dry out between wettings and thus contain more than you’d otherwise guess based on the tested absorbency.
Of the products tested in this review the M001 is particularly noteworthy because it’s detachable in the same way you’d get with an adult diaper, making it faster/easier to change if needed. This is my first time testing such a product and I’m excited to share the results. I’d like to give a special thanks to Carer for providing samples used in this review! It’s great to see a company that actively listens to customer feedback to provide innovative products.
Product Details
For the purpose of this post I will be reviewing and referring to the large sized M001 Women's Incontinence Underwear with Velcros, small sized W302 Women's Incontinence Boyshorts, small sized W303 Women's Incontinence High Rise Classic Briefs, and small sized M303 Absorbent Underwear For Bladder Leak Plus Size. However, other available sizes are listed below.:
Packaging
Brand: Carer Manufacturer: Carer SPK Origin: China Units Per Bag: 1, 2, 3, 6, or 9 Founded: 2011 Advertised Absorbency: Normal/Plus (150-450 ml by product)
Backsheet: Cloth (reusable) 70% modal, 25% nylon, 5% spandex body (70/30% viscose/polyester pad) Available Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL Advertised Absorbency: 200 ml (7 oz) Standing Inner Leak Guards: No Leg Gathers: No * (not elastic but does fit snugly) Product Style: Reusable Underwear Outer Color: White Inner Color: White Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.8") Folded Length: 28 cm (11") Dry Weight: 100 g (3.5 oz) Brief Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 56 cm (22.1") x 36 cm (14.2") x 14 cm (5.5") x 36 cm (14.2") Padding Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 32 cm (12.6") x 10 cm (3.9") x 10 cm (3.9") x10 cm (3.9") Padding Wing Dimensions (fPW x fPH x bPW x bPH): 0 cm (0") x 0 cm (0") x 0 cm (0") x 0 cm (0") Padding Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Flat, Flat Total Padding Area: 320 cm2 (49.6 in2)
2.1 Carer M303 Underwear (back/front)
Laboratory Absorbency Tests
Total Absorption Volume (after press out): 195 ml (6.6 oz) *~150 ml (5.1 oz) discounting leak Total Absorption Volume (before press out): 200 ml (6.8 oz) Time to Absorb Wettings (first to last): (27 s, 37 s, 49 s, 74 s) Wet Folded Thickness: 1.5 cm (0.6") Total Padding to Absorbency Ratio: 0.61 ml / cm2 (0.13 oz / in2) Press Out Volume: 5 ml (0.17 oz) Time to Hang Dry: TBD
The M303 absorption in the lab test was about in line with what was expected, although there was a substantial leak that was reabsorbed between wettings. Surface dampness was apparent after all tests, but no different than any other reusable product tested so far. Otherwise, the backsheet did prevent leakage from seeping directly through and the only leakage observed was around the edges. I expect the 195 ml (6.6 oz) of absorbency is far more than could realistically be expected for absorbency. I'd put the expected absorbency more around 100 ml (3.4 oz).
2.2 Carer M303 After Capacity Test
"Real World" Absorbency Tests
Daily Drips & Dribbles Rating: 9
The absorbent padding in the M303 provides a wide area of coverage, similar to the M67 in the front, but with less padding up the rear. I found it easily able to catch drips and dribbles from all angles, though with less padding up the rear it might not be as well suited to overnight wear for any more than very light incontinence. In my own daily experience, for light drips and dribbles, I never noticed any leaks through this underwear and was happy with the performance. I tried pushing it to see how far it might theoretically go without leakage and was quite impressed. It ended up in about the expected range when it started to leak from the front left leg opening, having absorbed around 150 ml (5.1 oz). That’s probably a fair bit more than you should realistically expect as I didn’t check after sitting pressout, but there were still some dry parts of the padding as well. Even so, it should be more than sufficient for minor leaks like post micturition dribble.
Additional Protection Rating: 5
For those who wear cheaper incontinence underwear that is sometimes prone to leaks, reusable protective underwear can be a great addition to boost confidence. Using reusable underwear as extra leakage protection is a huge plus, because if leaks do occur you only need to wash a pair of underwear rather than your bedding or pants. This can be accomplished by wearing the reusable protective underwear over the disposable product. To put this to the test for the M303 I used it in combination with Goodnites XL protective underwear, an underwear geared toward bedwetting for youths/young adults that is often cheaper than regular adult diapers. The issue with Goodnites is that the padding (particularly at the rear) is relatively prone to leaks/pressout so I’ve found, if worn for bedwetting, they will leak at least a couple times per week. They’re also not designed for dailywear so if you don’t remove it before sitting down in the morning you’ll likely have a leak even if they didn’t leak overnight. The latter happens consistently so I used that fact to put the Carer Incontinence underwear to the test. In testing with the M303 as additional protection I did notice the relatively narrow area of padding coverage at the front meant some minor leakage was able to make it through there. There was also significant leakage through the rear since the rear padding doesn’t extend far and is relatively narrow. For this reason, it may not be the best choice for additional protection, compared with the M67.
2.3 Carer M303 as Additional Protection for Goodnites XL
Wear & Tear Tests
Fitting
The M303 has a similar boxer-brief structure to the M67 with some key differences. Both don’t have a “fly”, which I personally find helps with its comfort and makes it better for active wear, but stitching on this underwear is different without the seams along the front. Its material makeup feels a bit different, with a much stretchy design and consistent waistband. Size-wise, it tends to be larger than you might expect with the “small” feeling comfortable but borderline large for me when I often wear medium. Even so, due to its stretchiness I think there’s a bit more flexibility in getting a good fit with this one.
2.4 Carer Incontinence M303 Underwear Fit
Comfort Rating: 9
The M303 proved highly comfortable during testing, though perhaps slightly less than the M67. I found it had a snug fit but with a bit more looseness than I expected. I also give it props for the lack of a “fly”, which was particularly beneficial when exercising. In theory the material in this underwear is lighter and more breathable but I didn’t notice that much of a difference. I did notice the protective padding a bit more in this underwear than in the M67. It didn’t chafe against my legs when running or cause skin irritation, but it did have a bit of a bulky feel to it near the rear. This being a boxer-brief style underwear means it extends down the legs and if you have particularly thin or wide thighs that could affect comfort (more so if you have thinner thighs as its stretchiness will accommodate wider thighs).
2.5 Carer M303 Backsheet and Topsheet
Durability Rating (dry): 9 The M303 is made of a stretchy modal material. I found it to be well woven and highly durable, but it’s thinner than Carer’s 100% cotton products like the M67. For this reason, I rank it slightly lower in terms of durability, but I think for the most part you won’t notice the difference too much until you’ve worn/washed it a large number of times. When I tested running while wearing this underwear I found it to be of no hindrance and the padding retained its form through to the end of the test.
Discretion Rating: 10*
The M303 protective underwear is highly discreet, like the M66 or M67. In practical wear no one will be able to tell the difference between this and regular underwear. It sits below the waistline and fits close to the body. It’s also completely silent regardless of how the wearer moves. For lighter incontinence it does a good job at containing odors, one might need to be careful with moderate wettings, but in that case I feel leaks would be more of the concern. For all these reasons I’m giving it top marks for discreteness.
*I preface my rating with that I’m rating it in accordance to products for lighter incontinence. In that regard you likely won’t notice odors until it’s close to leaking but its breathable reusable materials mean it can actually dry out between small leaks extending its usable absorbency.
2.6 Carer M303 Sweats Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right)
Want to give the Carer M303 a try?
Help us continue to produce quality reviews by making a purchase through our Carer M303 Incontinence Underwear affiliate link and use the code “DIAPERMETRICS” for a 15% discount on orders over $30. With every purchase this blog will earn a small amount of commission at no extra cost to the purchaser.
Backsheet: Cloth (reusable) 100% cotton material Available Sizes: M, L, XL, 3XL Advertised Absorbency: 450 ml (15 oz) Standing Inner Leak Guards: No Leg Gathers: No * (not elastic but does fit snugly) Product Style: Reusable Underwear Outer Color: Grey Inner Color: Grey (Light Grey Absorbent Pad) Folded Thickness: 1.5 cm (0.6") Folded Length: 31 cm (12.2") Dry Weight: 125 g (4.4 oz) Brief Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 64 cm (25.2") x 24 cm (9.5") x 12 cm (4.7") x 44 cm (17.3") Padding Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 39 cm (15.4") x 9 cm (3.5") x 8 cm (3.2") x 19 cm (7.5") Padding Wing Dimensions (fPW x fPH x bPW x bPH): 0.5 cm (0.2") x 3 cm (1.2") x 5.5 cm (2.2") x 17 cm (6.7") Padding Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Triangular, Triangular Total Padding Area: 5.2 cm2 (78 in2)
3.1 Carer M001 Underwear (back/front)
Laboratory Absorbency Tests
Total Absorption Volume (after press out): 275 ml (9.3 oz) Total Absorption Volume (before press out): 300 ml (10.1 oz) Time to Absorb Wettings (first to last): (27 s, 37 s, 49 s, 74 s) Wet Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.8") Total Padding to Absorbency Ratio: 0.55 ml / cm2 (0.12 oz / in2) Press Out Volume: 25 ml (0.85 oz) Time to Hang Dry: TBD
The M001 Women’s Underwear is currently the highest absorbency Carer incontinence product available. It features a unique hybrid design with hook & loop fasteners so it can be applied and removed without removing one's shoes/pants. This makes it practical for quick changes, though with the most extensive padding coverage toward the rear it may be better suited for overnight wear. It’s rated at 450 ml (15.2 oz) absorbency, although in practice I feel it would be tough to get anywhere near that much without leaks happening first. Even so, it proved more absorbent than any other Carer product tested so far, slightly ahead of the M67.
3.2 Carer M001 After Capacity Test
"Real World" Absorbency Tests
Daily Drips & Dribbles Rating: 10 I give the M001 top marks when it comes to protection against drips and dribbles. This underwear is comparable to the M67 in that regard, but this one is targeted toward women whereas the M67 is designed for men. Male wearers will find the padding on this underwear doesn’t run very far up the front and thus won’t provide full coverage, particularly during daily wear. In many ways this underwear may be better suited for overnight wear since the padding is thinnest at the front/mid-section and expands toward the rear. In my own testing it appeared highly effective at managing all sorts of drips and dribbles. The padding in this underwear is a bit different and perhaps more breathable than other Carer models. To get a better sense of its limits, I pushed it to see what to expect from absorbency with a heavier wetting. Initially it completely contained it, demonstrating the strength of the moisture impermeable barrier. However, it quickly pooled in the lower padding and leaked rapidly through the sides when it was shifted. I measured the total absorbance after the leak at around 150 ml (5.1 oz), which is certainly near the top of what you could possibly get without leaking in daily wear. Consequently, this underwear should be perfect for light-moderate urinary incontinence under 200 ml (6.8 oz) without leaks or perhaps a bit higher if worn overnight. Women with light-moderate stress incontinence will find this underwear particularly helpful.
Additional Protection Rating: 8
The M001 provided the best additional protection of all other carer underwear tested so far when seated. Again, it was combined with a Goodnites XL protective underwear and tested when sitting after a bedwetting episode the previous night. The wide rear padding absorbed a significant amount of leakage and proved perfect for the job. It should be decent for light-moderate leaks in this case. However, the downside is that the padding coverage doesn’t run far up the front of the underwear so if most of your leaks typically happen in the front it won’t be as useful. Even so, I am ranking this underwear based on its performance when seated since that’s when leaks most frequently occur and while standing or active gravity tends to carry moisture toward the rear.
3.3 Carer M001 as Additional Protection for Goodnites XL
Wear & Tear Tests
Fitting
The sizing of the M001 is different from most other Carer products and comes out on the small side. In my case I typically wear a medium size, but with the M001 the large size proved to have the best fit; whereas for most other Carer products I’ve found the best fit with the small size. This underwear has stretchy flexible design so there is some give even if you don’t end up with a perfectly matched size. Yet, the biggest differentiator for this product is that it can be attached/removed similar to a diaper with hook & loop fasteners on its wings. These fasteners have a fixed position so they can only ever be attached in one spot rather than being repositionable, making it more of a hybrid product with an underwear-like fit.
3.4 Carer Incontinence M001 Underwear Fit
Comfort Rating: 9
I found the M001 was almost perfect when it came to comfort. Like other Carer products it is made of a soft breathable fabric. I also found it had a snug, flexible fit and didn’t notice any irritation at the seams. However, it’s convenience comes at a cost, with the hook & loop fasteners that make it so easy to do a quick change somewhat susceptible to scratching the wearer’s skin. This is particularly true when sliding it down to use the toilet, which can also shift the fasteners to a less desirable location if you’re not careful. This makes getting the correct sizing all the more important for this underwear. On the plus side, the padding is a bit different and I found it more breathable than other Carer products. I tried running and exercising in this underwear with no issues and found it to be exceptionally good for warm weather.
3.5 Carer M001 Backsheet and Topsheet
Durability Rating (dry): 9 Once again, the tabs that make this underwear so convenient also pose some challenges to durability. You need to take a little more care when applying/removing it to ensure the tabs don’t shift. When I applied them correctly I had no issue and found they didn’t shift, but I did notice some issues when I needed to slide the underwear down to use the toilet. Otherwise, the material feels durable and it holds its form for active wear.
Discretion Rating: 9*
Generally I’d be surprised if anyone noticed this underwear and never found it noticeable in any way other than when adjusting the velcro (which is noisy). However, the padding does extend pretty far up the rear and is somewhat thick so it’s possible it may show under tighter clothing. For this reason I can’t give it quite as high a rating as other Carer products when it comes to discretion, but keeping in mind that you gain some extra protection for lost discretion.
*Again, I preface my rating with that I’m rating it in accordance to products for lighter incontinence.
3.6 Carer M001 Sweats Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right)
Want to give the Carer M001 a try?
Help us continue to produce quality reviews by making a purchase through our Carer M001 Incontinence Underwear affiliate link and use the code “DIAPERMETRICS” for a 15% discount on orders over $30. With every purchase this blog will earn a small amount of commission at no extra cost to the purchaser.
Backsheet: Cloth (reusable) 70% modal, 25% nylon, 5% spandex body (70/30% viscose/polyester pad) Available Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL Advertised Absorbency: 100 ml (3.4 oz) Standing Inner Leak Guards: No Leg Gathers: No* (not elastic but does fit snugly) Product Style: Reusable Underwear Outer Color: Black Inner Color: Black Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.8") Folded Length: 24 cm (9.5") Dry Weight: 90 g (3.2 oz) Brief Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 48 cm (18.9") x 30 cm (11.8") x 8 cm (3.2") x 30 cm (11.8") Padding Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 29 cm (11.4") x 11 cm (4.3") x 6 cm (2.4") x 11 cm (4.3") Padding Wing Dimensions (fPW x fPH x bPW x bPH): 2.5 cm (1") x 8 cm (4.3") x 6 cm (2.4") x 8 cm (3.2") Padding Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Semicircle, Semicircle Total Padding Area: 254 cm2 (39.4 in2)
4.1 Carer W302 Underwear (back/front)
Laboratory Absorbency Tests
Total Absorption Volume (after press out): 80 ml (2.7 oz) Total Absorption Volume (before press out): 85 ml (2.9 oz) Time to Absorb Wettings (first to last): (18 s) Wet Folded Thickness: 1.5 cm (0.6") Total Padding to Absorbency Ratio: 0.31 ml / cm2 (0.07 oz / in2) Press Out Volume: 5 ml (0.17 oz) Time to Hang Dry: TBD
The Carer Women’s W302 is a compact light absorbency underwear with a boxer-brief type fit. The absorbent pad itself is relatively narrow but actually runs a bit further up the front than the W303. It also has quite a low rise and is among the most discreet Carer products.
4.2 Carer W302 After Capacity Test
"Real World" Absorbency Tests
Daily Drips & Dribbles Rating: 8 The W302 is clearly targeted for lighter incontinence with an advertised absorbency of 100 ml. This should be more than sufficient for those with light drips and dribbles and probably ideal for women with slight infrequent stress incontinence. I wouldn’t recommend it for moderate levels of incontinence as the padding would quickly be overcome. In my own testing it was easily sufficient for light drips and dribbles. As a final test I tried to push it to its limit to see how much it might theoretically be able to absorb. I wasn’t expecting much given it’s ranked as one of the lowest absorbency Carer products but was surprised that the final absorbency was so close to the advertised absorbency at 100 ml (3.4 oz). This underwear is deceptively absorbent considering its compact form and relatively narrow padding. Interestingly enough it leaked out the rear but was able to contain quite a bit before leaking too. I imagine it will easily handle daily drips and dribbles. Otherwise, it could also provide a higher level of absorption when combined with a small booster pad.
Additional Protection Rating: 4
While the overall padding in this underwear doesn’t cover a particularly large area, it does cover regions that are more likely to leak. Again this was tested with Goodnites XL underwear the morning after a bedwetting episode. Upon sitting there was no initial leakage, instead leaks formed slowly with pressout at the rear. I was surprised because I was expecting a bit more in terms of leakage and it performed surprisingly well in a few tests. That said, it’s hardly fool-proof and I have concerns about the narrow padding being able to capture leaks from underlying protection where they might pass over the edges. But if worn with a smaller incontinence pad it should support a good degree of absorbance, perhaps even doubling its stand-alone absorbency.
4.3 Carer W302 as Additional Protection for Goodnites XL
Wear & Tear Tests
Fitting
The W302 fits smaller than most other Carer products but is still relatively large. I found it to be a little snug, but I typically wear a medium size and was testing the small size. It’s constructed from a flexible material so it will easily conform to the wearer's body.
4.4 Carer Incontinence W302 Underwear Fit
Comfort Rating: 19
The Carer W302 has a snug fit that conforms to the wearer’s body. Its absorbent padding is located in the center and relatively thick but narrow in width. I noticed the padding more during wear than other Carer products, but mostly just when I was active (e.g. running). Otherwise, this underwear is soft and comfortable and will be particularly good for those who like a slim fit. Like other Carer products it is more susceptible to dampness than disposable incontinence products but it has the benefit of being highly breathable to counter that.
4.5 Carer W302 Backsheet and Topsheet
Durability Rating (dry): 10 The W302 is made of a flexible but durable fabric that proved highly effective during my tests. I never noticed any issues with padding after working out while wearing this underwear as it kept its form perfectly. The snug fit means this underwear won’t shift around during wear. Meanwhile, its material proved to hold up well with washes and I’d expect it to last for a very long time without holes/tears.
Discretion Rating: 10*
Like other Carer products, the W302 provides top of the line discretion for those dealing with light incontinence. This underwear is particularly discreet as it has a low rise and compact fit. I imagine you could even get away with wearing it under tight fitting clothing without anyone noticing the padding.
*Again, I preface my rating with that I’m rating it in accordance to products for lighter incontinence.
4.6 Carer W302 Sweats Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right)
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Backsheet: Cloth (reusable) 70% modal, 25% nylon, 5% spandex body (30% polyester/ 70% viscose pad)ithout anyone noticing the padding. Available Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL Advertised Absorbency: 150 ml (5 oz) Standing Inner Leak Guards: No Leg Gathers: No* (not elastic but does fit snugly) Product Style: Reusable Underwear Outer Color: Beige Inner Color: Beige (White Pad) Folded Thickness: 2 cm (0.8") Folded Length: 31 cm (12.2") Dry Weight: 100 g (3.5 oz) Brief Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 62 cm (24.4") x 34 cm (13.4") x 16 cm (6.3") x 34 cm (13.4") Padding Dimensions (L x fW x mW x bW): 26 cm (10.2") x 13 cm (5.1") x 12 cm (4.7") x 15 cm (5.9") Padding Wing Dimensions (fPW x fPH x bPW x bPH): 0.5 cm (0.2") x 5 cm (2") x 1.5 cm (0.6") x 9 cm (3.5") Padding Wing Shape (Front, Rear): Semicircle, Semicircle Total Padding Area: 344 cm2 (53.3 in2)
5.1 Carer W303 Underwear (back/front)
Laboratory Absorbency Tests
Total Absorption Volume (after press out): 165 ml (5.6 oz) Total Absorption Volume (before press out): 175 ml (5.9 oz) Time to Absorb Wettings (first to last): (19s, 30 s) Wet Folded Thickness: 1.5 cm (0.6") Total Padding to Absorbency Ratio: 0.48 ml / cm2 (0.10 oz / in2) Press Out Volume: 10 ml (0.34 oz) Time to Hang Dry: TBD
The W303 is a light-moderate absorbency women’s underwear. It has a high rise, but its padding is mostly concentrated toward the center and rear. During testing it proved well suited for light incontinence and potentially as additional protection to a disposable pad or underwear given its relatively wide padding. I feel it would be well suited for women with light leaks due to stress incontinence.
5.2 Carer W303 After Capacity Test
"Real World" Absorbency Tests
Daily Drips & Dribbles Rating: 9 The W303 is designed for women’s wear and thus it concentrates most of its padding toward its midsection. So from the perspective of a unisex product, it’s probably best suited for additional protection if worn by men. Even for some women, I suspect the padding up the front may be a little shorter than ideal since it has a somewhat looser fit. Given all this, it seems best for overnight wear and perhaps when seated. In my personal experience, I found it sufficient for light daily drips and dribbles. I think the extra wide padding coverage could also make it well suited for exercise and I did indeed test it when running to confirm it suits this purpose. Like the previously tested products, I also tried pushing the W303 to see where the maximum expected absorbency might sit. It initially held out alright, but pretty quickly pooled and there was leakage out the rear. I measured it afterward to see where it was at and found it had absorbed 125 ml (7.6 oz) at the point of leakage, which was about in line with expected absorbency and more than enough for lighter drips and dribbles.
Additional Protection Rating: 7
I rank the W303 higher in terms of additional protection than I expected given the relatively low padding rise at the front/rear. The big benefit this underwear provides is that the area of padding is considerably wider than most. Once again, it was worn in combination with a Goodnites XL protective underwear and tested while seated after a previous night’s bedwetting episode. All moisture that made it through to the padding and otherwise would have leaked onto the chair was blocked. That said, I’m sure there are situations where moisture could still leak through and if you’re wearing it as additional protection and get overflow rather than pressout then it might come out above the padding area. I also feel this underwear would be particularly well suited in combination with smaller incontinence pads to catch leaks at the edges.
5.3 Carer W303 as Additional Protection for Goodnites XL
Wear & Tear Tests
Fitting
The W303 fits very much on the larger side. With a 31~32” waist I still found the small size I tested was a bit loose, though not impractically so. This underwear is stretchy with a very high rising waist and both the material and waistband stretch, so it will conform to the wearer’s body.
5.4 Carer Incontinence W303 Underwear Fit
Comfort Rating: 10
I rank the W303 highly for comfort. It has a very soft fit with no rough edges. It also feels very light and breathable and resists perspiration. In spite of it’s otherwise thicker look I feel it could actually be a good choice for warm weather wear. The material is soft and stretchy so that it fits snugly without any effort. It’s about as comfortable as you could expect for such a product and thus the perfect score here.
5.5 Carer W303 Backsheet and Topsheet
Durability Rating (dry): 9 The downside of the thin breathable material is that it may be less durable. During testing I never had an issue but I imagine with multiple washes and typical wear/tear it would wear out faster than others with a thicker material like the M67. That said, I went running and exercised in this underwear with no issue and never found a problem with the padding bunching up. It also retained its form well after washing. I’m not sure I can give it a perfect score for durability, but it comes pretty close.
Discretion Rating: 10*
Like most of Carer’s products, this underwear is incredibly discreet and well fitted for providing good protection against small leaks without being noticed. I do feel it can be a bit loose at the bottom toward the padding, but not so much that I’d deduct discretion marks because it will easily conform to whatever you’re wearing.
*Again, I preface my rating with that I’m rating it in accordance to products for lighter incontinence.
5.6 Carer W303 Sweats Profile (left) vs Normal Underwear (right)
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