When NOT To Use Disposable Underpants

Disposal underpants such as GoodNites, Underjams, Ninjamas or generic store brands are common to see in grocery stores, department stores, and even airports.  They are becoming so commonplace, many parents go straight from toilet training to bed-wetting underpants – but there are definitely some situations where a disposable underpant or diaper is not the right solution.

Alarm Training

Disposable underpants aren’t designed for use with bed-wetting alarms or other devices.  With the exception of inserts such as the Nite  Train-R, these alarms use a clip-on sensor that attaches to the underwear to detect dryness.  Some parents may have their child wear normal underwear, attach the device, and then use a disposable pant or vinyl pant over that to keep the bed dry.

The entire point of alarm therapy is to help kids recognize when they need to go to the restroom. Using regular underwear is part of that process.  Using a waterproof underpad under the child will still keep the bed dry.

Punishment

No kid wants to wet the bed.  Using disposable underpants or youth diapers as punishment for wetting can seriously hurt the emotional well-being of the child.  Even though most parents are horrified at the thought, there really are some parents who think punishing a child for wetting the bed will encourage them to stop.  It won’t, so just don’t do it.

Long Flights or Lines

There have been stories of parents putting older kids in diapers or underpants for years.  Most of these stories just aren’t true.  Making a child wear a diaper or pant just because they are waiting in a long line or will be on an airplane is just as bad as punishing the child for wetting their bed. If they don’t have a daytime continence issue, they don’t need to be wearing anything.  Simple.  And no, it is not common for older kids to wear diapers at Disneyland.

Older Kids Who Wet

Even though disposable underpants say they will fit a certain weight, and in many cases beyond that weight, does not mean older children are resigned to wear the disposable underpants.  Older teenagers should definitely be checked out by a doctor to rule out any physical issues that may be contributing to their bed-wetting.  Bed-wetting drugs and nasal sprays can also help the older child deal with their wetting themselves.  Alarm training may or may not be as effective in older children as it is in younger children.

Even though they are readily available, bed-wetting children are not resigned to wearing disposable protection.  Many different options are available.  While most children overcome bed-wetting, there are many who continue throughout adulthood without any physical abnormalities or other diagnosis.  Knowing all the options can help parents and kids sleep soundly and lead normal lives.