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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-30 Origin: Site
Disposable Underpads: A Comprehensive Guide Everything you need to know about disposable underpads, from features to applications
With the acceleration of global population aging, medical underpads—basic care products—are seeing rising demand in home-care settings, hospitals, and nursing homes. The latest data show the worldwide medical underpad market reached roughly US$8 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to US$11.5 billion by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5%. Demand in China is even more pronounced; against the backdrop of an expanding elderly population, the domestic market is expected to surpass RMB 3 billion in 2025 and reach about RMB 5 billion by 2030.
Use of medical underpads is no longer confined to traditional healthcare environments; it is steadily extending into home care and other auxiliary caregiving contexts. As personal-hygiene and health awareness rise, consumers increasingly seek high-quality, comfort-oriented products, propelling growth in the premium segment. Users across age groups—particularly infants and the elderly—constitute the primary sources of demand.
On the supply side, the competitive landscape is shifting. Beyond established large-scale manufacturers, a growing number of small, innovative firms are entering the market, offering more competitive offerings. Upstream raw-material suppliers—especially those providing high-performance absorbent materials—play a critical role. Driven by environmental regulations, both production and usage of medical underpads are moving toward eco-friendly, sustainable practices.
So, what exactly is an underpad?
Disposable underpads are single-use, flat, absorbent pads designed to protect surfaces such as beds, chairs, and furniture from moisture and leaks. They are commonly used in healthcare facilities like hospitals and nursing homes, especially for incontinent individuals or during medical procedures like wound care. These underpads help maintain hygiene and comfort, preventing infections and skin damage.
High Absorbency: The core typically combines fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers (SAP). Fluff pulp quickly absorbs liquids, while SAP can absorb and lock in large amounts, turning it into a gel-like substance to prevent leakage.
Waterproof and Breathable Backing: Usually made of polyethylene film, which is waterproof and durable. Some also feature breathable films laminated with polypropylene nonwoven fabrics for enhanced comfort.
Skin-Friendly Top Layer: Made of hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics like polypropylene or polyester fibers, chosen for their softness, breathability, and hypoallergenic properties.
Used in hospitals and nursing homes for post-surgical wound care, absorbing wound exudate, and for incontinent patients to prevent soiling and protect skin health.
Highly practical for families with elderly individuals, children, or pets, preventing contamination of bed sheets, sofas, carpets, and more from urine, vomit, or other liquids.
Useful for travel, camping, and other outdoor activities, addressing unexpected liquid spills such as diaper changes for babies or accidental spills during trips.
A combination of fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers (SAP). Fluff pulp provides initial absorbency, while SAP enhances capacity by absorbing 35–50 times its weight and retaining liquid under pressure.
Hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics like polypropylene or polyester fibers, known for softness, breathability, and durability. Allows liquids to pass through while keeping the surface dry.
Keep skin dry and clean, reducing the risk of infections and pressure ulcers caused by damp environments.
Eliminate the need for washing and reuse, reducing cleaning time and allowing more focus on patient care.
Lightweight and individually wrapped, easy to carry and store, suitable for various scenarios like travel and medical visits.
When selecting disposable underpads, consider factors such as absorbency, size, and material comfort. This guide aims to provide you with valuable information to make informed purchasing decisions and bring more convenience and comfort to healthcare and homecare settings.