Adult Pull-Ups vs. Diapers: What's the Difference?

Adult pull-ups vs. adult diapers… which one to opt for?

The choice becomes much easier when you know the main pros and cons of each type of incontinence protection, so let’s waste no time.

First, a quick heads-up!

The main styles of incontinence products don’t have just one name, so let’s make sure we’re on the same page…

Adult pull-ups are also referred to as “incontinence underwear” and “incontinence pants.” 

Adult diapers, meanwhile, can often be called either “incontinence briefs” and “briefs with tabs.”

Confused? Don’t worry! 

The product terms should become clearer as you continue reading. But if you’re ever unsure, scroll back to this section for a quick review…

Sound like a plan? 

Okay, so what are the main differences between adult pull-ups and diapers? 

The easiest way to tell one from the other is by looking at their side panels. 

Diapers include panels that wrap around the hips for a stretchy, comfortable fit. Here’s what an adult diaper looks like:

Adult diapers feature side panels that wrap around the hips.

Most adult diapers also have refastenable tabs, which allow the user or their caregiver to make adjustments as needed. 

You’ll be able to see these tabs in the image below:

Adult diapers with refastenable tabs.

Now, what about adult pull-ups? 

This style of incontinence product will typically look a lot more like “normal” underwear. 

Whenever you need to change pull-ups, you can tear the material at the sides.

However, do bear in mind that — unlike diapers — pull-ups can’t be closed again once opened.

An example of adult pull-up underwear.

Side panels aren’t the only way in which adult pull-ups and diapers differ, though…

Let’s delve into the key advantages of each.

*Ding ding* 

In the red corner we have pull-ups (incontinence underwear), and in the blue corner we have diapers (incontinence briefs)… 

Which one’s your winner? 

The right choice will depend on your preferences and health needs.

If you’re looking for a discreet option, adult pull-ups are likely to be your best bet. They’re lighter and quieter than diapers. 

You may notice that the product descriptions for many pull-ups on the market include being “silent” as a key benefit. This makes sense, as most users don’t want to rustle when moving around — which can happen with diapers.

“Soft, silent, and skin-healthy” — Protective Pull-Up Underwear from Covidien

And as for adult diapers, they have two chief advantages over the pull-up underwear…

Firstly, diapers can offer protection from both bladder and bowel incontinence. 

While pull-ups soak up light to moderate urine voids, most aren’t designed to deal with heavier incontinence. 

Diapers can provide you with more peace of mind because they absorb a greater amount of urine (and stool).

The second advantage of adult diapers is how easy to use and safe they are for those with mobility restrictions. 

Unlike pull-ups, diapers don’t require you to bend down to bring the underwear over your feet and up your legs. 

Instead, the diapers can be secured using their side tabs. This makes it less of a nuisance to change when you’re away from home, as the tabs can be released in a matter of seconds. They’re also a practical option if you require the support of a caregiver when changing.

Are They Available for Men and Women?Yes! You’ll find that most adult pull-ups and diapers on the market are available for both men and women.

If you’re searching for a unisex option, make sure to check the product description, like the one below:

Not all pull-ups are unisex, though. Some will be designed specifically for either men or women. 

Here are two examples:

• Attends Discreet Pull-Up Underwear for Men

• Prevail Daily Pull-Up Underwear For Women

Generally, adult pull-ups will be the better choice if you lead a busy, active lifestyle.

Pull-ups can be worn discreetly and securely under your clothing. Take it from one of Carewell's very own customers.