Quick answer: To put an adult diaper on someone lying down, roll them onto their side, place the folded diaper under them with the back panel centred on the spine, roll them back, bring the front up between the legs, and fasten the lower tabs angled up and the upper tabs angled down. Check that the leg gathers aren't tucked under.

Medical Disclaimer: The information in this guide is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Product recommendations are based on common use cases and should not replace a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always speak with your doctor, nurse, or continence specialist before starting, changing, or stopping any treatment or product regimen. If you experience pain, infection, skin breakdown, or any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. We do our best to keep this information accurate and up to date, but we can't guarantee that it is complete or error-free.

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A well-fitted brief is the single biggest factor in preventing leaks. These steps work for most tab-style briefs. Always check the instructions on your product's package too.

Before you start

• Gather a fresh brief, wipes or no-rinse cleanser, a towel, barrier cream and disposable gloves.
• Wash your hands and put on gloves.
• Explain each step to the person and keep them covered as much as possible.
• Check the size: the brief should match their larger measurement, waist or hips.

How to put an adult diaper on someone in bed

This is the easiest method for people with limited mobility, and it reduces strain on the caregiver's back. Raise the bed to waist height if you can.

1. Prepare the brief. Unfold it and fold it lengthwise, without touching the inside. Gently stretch it to activate the leg elastics.
2. Roll the person onto their side, facing away from you. Bending their knees makes rolling easier.
3. Clean and protect the skin. Remove the used brief by rolling it inward. Clean front to back, pat dry, and apply barrier cream.
4. Position the new brief. With the back panel (usually the larger half, tabs attached) toward their back, tuck the folded brief under them. Line up the centre of the brief with their spine.
5. Roll them onto their back, then over slightly the other way so you can pull the rest of the brief through and flatten it.
6. Bring the front up between the legs. Make sure it sits centred and snug in the groin, with leg gathers tucked into the creases of the thigh.
7. Fasten the tabs. Secure the lower tabs first, angled slightly upward, then the upper tabs angled slightly downward. Snug, but you should fit a finger under the waistband.
8. Check the fit. Run a finger along the leg gathers to make sure they stand up and aren't folded under.

How to put an adult diaper on someone standing

Use this method if the person can stand safely, with support such as a grab bar or walker.

1. Prepare the brief as in step 1 above.
2. Have them stand with feet slightly apart, holding a stable support.
3. Remove the used brief, then clean, dry and protect the skin.
4. Place the back of the brief against their lower back and hold it there.
5. Bring the front up between the legs and centre it.
6. Fasten the lower tabs first, then the upper tabs, as above.
7. Check the leg gathers and adjust for comfort.

Why is the adult diaper leaking?

• Fold, don't bunch. A creased absorbent core can't spread liquid evenly.
• For men, point the penis downward before fastening.
• Change promptly. Many briefs have a wetness indicator that changes colour when it's time.
• Still leaking with a good fit? Try a higher absorbency, or add a booster pad. Call us and we'll help you troubleshoot.

Shop Adult Briefs & Pads or Home Healthcare for wipes, gloves and barrier creams.

Frequently asked questions

Which side of an adult diaper goes in the back?

The back panel is usually the wider half and has the tabs attached. Some diapers also have a printed line or graphic on the back.

How tight should an adult diaper be?

Snug enough that the leg gathers sit flat in the groin, but loose enough to fit a finger under the waistband.

Can I put a pad inside an adult diaper?

Use a booster pad designed for this. Regular pads have a waterproof backing that blocks liquid from reaching the diaper's core and can cause leaks.

How do I put a diaper on someone who can't roll over?

Ask their care team for a safe repositioning technique. A second caregiver, a draw sheet, or a slide sheet can make it safer for both of you.