Disposable Underpads Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Small Size, Large Size), By Applications Covered (Adult, Baby), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Disposable Underpads Market Size

The Disposable Underpads Market size was USD 542.88 million in 2024, projected to reach USD 565.68 million in 2025, and USD 789.14 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period [2025-2033].

The U.S. Disposable Underpads market holds a 35% share, driven by a growing elderly population and increasing healthcare investments. Rising demand for incontinence products in healthcare facilities and home care drives continued market growth.

The Disposable Underpads market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of urinary incontinence, especially among the aging population. These absorbent products, also known as chux pads or bed pads, are essential for managing incontinence in adults and infants. The market is expanding due to rising health awareness and increasing demand for hygiene products. In 2022, the global underpads market was valued at USD 110 million and is projected to reach USD 148.79 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.16% during the forecast period.

Disposable Underpads Market Trends 

The Disposable Underpads market is witnessing several key trends:The global increase in the elderly population is a significant driver. According to the World Health Organization, the geriatric population aged 60 and above is expected to reach 2 billion by 2050, leading to a higher demand for incontinence products.Growing health and hygiene awareness is prompting individuals to seek products that offer comfort and reliability. This trend is reflected in the increasing adoption of high-quality disposable underpads.Manufacturers are focusing on developing underpads with enhanced absorbency, odor control, and skin-friendly materials. Innovations like eco-friendly and biodegradable underpads are becoming increasingly popular among environmentally conscious consumers.The market is expanding through both offline and online channels. In 2022, the offline distribution channel dominated the global underpads market, but the online segment is expected to grow at a higher rate, offering convenience and a wider product range to consumers.Europe held the largest market share in 2022, driven by the increasing prevalence of mental disorders that increase stress incontinence. North America followed with a 30.12% market share, with the U.S. being a significant contributor. These trends suggest a continued growth trajectory for the Disposable Underpads market, with continuous innovation and expanding distribution channels catering to evolving consumer needs.

Disposable Underpads Market Dynamics

The Disposable Underpads market is influenced by various factors, including demographic shifts, technological advancements, and consumer preferences. As the population ages globally, there is an increasing demand for incontinence care products. This is further amplified by health awareness and the shift towards personal hygiene. The demand for disposable underpads is growing in hospitals, nursing homes, and individual homes due to the need for hygiene management. Product innovations in absorbency, material quality, and sustainability are driving market dynamics. Distribution channel expansion through online platforms and retail networks is another significant factor contributing to the market's growth.

Drivers of Market Growth

"Rising Geriatric Population"

The increasing geriatric population is a major driver of market growth. The World Health Organization predicts that by 2050, the number of people aged 60 and above will reach 2 billion, making up 22% of the global population. This demographic is highly susceptible to incontinence, leading to a 50% rise in demand for disposable underpads. Additionally, the growing prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes and neurological disorders has increased the need for incontinence care. Hospitals and healthcare providers are increasingly adopting these products, which has resulted in a 20% expansion of market share in healthcare facilities globally.

Market Restraints

"High Costs of Premium Products"

A significant restraint in the Disposable Underpads market is the high cost of premium products. High-quality underpads with advanced features such as odor control and enhanced absorbency tend to be 25% more expensive than basic variants. This cost barrier limits widespread adoption, particularly in emerging markets, where budget constraints are a concern. Additionally, some consumers are unwilling to pay a premium for biodegradable or eco-friendly options, leading to slower market penetration of these products in price-sensitive regions. The availability of low-cost alternatives from regional manufacturers further intensifies pricing competition.

Market Opportunities

"Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Products"

There is an increasing demand for eco-friendly disposable underpads, especially in developed markets like Europe and North America. As environmental concerns grow, manufacturers are focusing on creating biodegradable underpads, which are 20% more sustainable than traditional options. With the rising number of green-conscious consumers, demand for recyclable or biodegradable alternatives is expected to grow significantly. Additionally, the shift toward online retail provides an opportunity to expand the reach of eco-friendly products. With environmentally-friendly initiatives being prioritized globally, the market is seeing a 15% increase in consumer interest for sustainable hygiene products.

Market Challenges

" Supply Chain Disruptions"

Supply chain disruptions pose a significant challenge to the Disposable Underpads market. These disruptions, caused by factors such as raw material shortages, transportation delays, and increased logistics costs, have led to extended delivery times. Manufacturers face challenges in maintaining consistent production levels, particularly for high-demand products during periods of global health crises. Additionally, fluctuations in the cost of raw materials like super absorbent polymers and nonwoven fabrics can affect production costs, creating a 20% increase in price volatility. Companies are adopting local sourcing strategies to mitigate these challenges but still face 15% higher operational costs during such disruptions.

Segmentation Analysis

The Disposable Underpads market is segmented by type and application. By type, the market is divided into small size and large size underpads, catering to different needs based on user preferences and requirements. The small-size underpads account for 45% of the market, as they are more commonly used for individuals with light incontinence or for children. Large-size underpads, which represent 55% of the market, are more suitable for adults and individuals with moderate to heavy incontinence. By application, the market is segmented into adult and baby underpads, with the adult segment commanding the largest share, driven by the aging population and increasing health issues related to incontinence. The baby segment is growing steadily, with increasing awareness about baby hygiene.

By Type

• Small Size Underpads: Small size disposable underpads account for 45% of the market, primarily used in home care and diapering products for babies. These pads are designed for light incontinence, commonly used in households, healthcare facilities, and daycare centers. In recent years, small-size underpads have gained popularity in the baby care segment, making up 30% of the total baby incontinence product market. Manufacturers are focusing on increasing the absorbency of small pads by 15%, improving their performance and attracting environmentally conscious consumers with biodegradable options.

• Large Size Underpads: Large-size disposable underpads represent 55% of the market, with significant demand in adult incontinence care, particularly for elderly individuals. These underpads are typically used in healthcare settings, nursing homes, and hospitals, where they serve individuals with moderate to severe incontinence. The adult segment for large underpads is growing at a rapid pace, driven by the rising geriatric population and increasing instances of chronic diseases. These underpads are available with enhanced absorbency and odor control features, with an estimated 25% increase in usage among nursing facilities for long-term care patients.

By Application

• Adult Underpads: Adult disposable underpads dominate the market, accounting for 70% of the demand. With the increasing prevalence of incontinence among the aging population, these underpads are widely used in hospitals, nursing homes, and personal care settings. The rise in chronic diseases like diabetes and neurological disorders is also contributing to the high demand for adult incontinence products. According to recent studies, 40% of adults aged 65 and above experience some form of incontinence, driving the demand for disposable underpads designed to manage these issues effectively.

• Baby Underpads: The baby underpads segment is also witnessing growth, accounting for 30% of the market. These products are used primarily for diaper changes, bedwetting, and baby care hygiene, especially in healthcare facilities and at home. The demand for disposable baby underpads is steadily increasing due to rising awareness about baby hygiene and the growing adoption of diapering systems. Baby products are often equipped with extra-soft materials and skin-friendly layers, making them highly preferable for parents seeking safe and comfortable care for infants.

Disposable Underpads Regional Outlook

The Disposable Underpads market is growing across various regions, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific leading in demand. North America, particularly the United States, holds the largest market share due to the rising geriatric population and increasing awareness of incontinence management. Europe follows closely, with strong demand from countries like Germany, the UK, and France, where healthcare systems heavily invest in adult care products. Asia-Pacific is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing urbanization and the rising prevalence of incontinence in countries like Japan, China, and India. Middle East & Africa remains a smaller segment but is showing signs of growth, particularly in hygiene products for the elderly in regions with high healthcare investments.

North America

North America leads the Disposable Underpads market, with the United States accounting for the majority of the share due to its large geriatric population. In the U.S., 30% of adults aged 65 and older experience some form of urinary incontinence, driving the need for high-quality disposable underpads. Healthcare providers are increasingly adopting these products, especially in nursing homes, hospitals, and home healthcare settings. The market in Canada is also expanding, with a growing preference for eco-friendly, biodegradable underpads, which are seeing increased adoption in urban areas.

Europe

Europe holds a significant share of the Disposable Underpads market, particularly in countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. The aging population in these regions, with a higher percentage of individuals over 65, has fueled demand for adult incontinence products. In Germany, approximately 20% of the elderly population faces some form of incontinence, contributing to the demand for disposable underpads in healthcare facilities. France is also witnessing growth in this segment, particularly in the healthcare sector, which prioritizes hygiene and patient comfort.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the Disposable Underpads market, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and India. With India’s aging population set to grow, there is an increasing demand for incontinence products, leading to a rise in disposable underpad adoption. The urbanization of China is contributing to this market's growth, as disposable products become more accessible. In Japan, a country with a high percentage of elderly people, there is increasing usage of underpads in hospitals, nursing homes, and households. Government policies in these countries are also supporting the growth of hygiene-related products, increasing market access.

Middle East & Africa

In the Middle East & Africa region, the Disposable Underpads market is growing, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, where healthcare investments are rising. Saudi Arabia has seen increased demand for incontinence care products due to a growing elderly population. Africa shows slower growth but is experiencing demand in healthcare and eldercare segments. The introduction of advanced hygiene products in healthcare facilities and increasing access to affordable underpads in key markets such as South Africa are propelling this growth.

List of Key Disposable Underpads Market Companies Profiled

• Medline
• Attends Healthcare
• Cardinal Health
• Dynarex Corporation
• First Quality Products
• Fisher Scientific
• AMG Medical
• Principle Business Enterprises, Inc.
• Essity
• MED PRIDE
• Aidacare
• Boots

Top 2 Companies with Highest Market Share

1. Medline – Holds 28% of the market share, driven by its broad product portfolio and strong distribution channels across healthcare facilities and retail markets.
2. Essity – Accounts for 22% of the market share, with a significant presence in both consumer and healthcare segments, offering high-quality, environmentally friendly disposable underpads.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Disposable Underpads market presents several promising investment opportunities driven by growing demand from the healthcare and consumer segments. The aging population and increased health awareness are among the key factors prompting investors to target innovations in personal hygiene products. Companies are prioritizing sustainability, with eco-friendly and biodegradable underpads becoming a 25% more sought-after option, particularly in North America and Europe. Investors are channeling funds into R&D for absorbency-enhancing technologies and skin-friendly materials to capture a larger share of the elderly care market.

Additionally, there is significant growth in the distribution of disposable underpads through e-commerce platforms, with online sales accounting for 20% of total market growth. This shift is encouraging investments in logistics and digital platforms, enabling manufacturers to reach a broader audience, particularly in emerging markets. Moreover, healthcare providers and elderly care facilities are expanding, further driving demand for underpads. For example, India and China are projected to witness a 40% increase in adoption over the next few years due to rising urbanization and healthcare facility expansion.Strategic partnerships between major manufacturers and healthcare providers are emerging, as companies look to create affordable, high-quality underpads for long-term care patients. These collaborations offer great opportunities to secure strong market positions in key regions globally.

New Products Development 

The Disposable Underpads market has seen significant product development in recent years, focusing on enhanced absorbency, sustainability, and comfort. Manufacturers are increasingly designing biodegradable and eco-friendly underpads to cater to environmentally conscious consumers. In 2023, a major brand introduced biodegradable disposable underpads, claiming a 30% reduction in environmental impact compared to traditional products. These eco-friendly options have seen growing adoption, particularly in North America and Europe, where there is a shift towards green products.Technological advancements in absorbency have also driven innovation. New underpads now feature multi-layered construction, incorporating superabsorbent polymers and advanced liquid lock systems, improving odor control by 15%. These innovations have increased consumer satisfaction, particularly in long-term care facilities. Additionally, skin-friendly materials such as non-woven fabrics are being incorporated to prevent skin irritation, ensuring increased comfort for users. Manufacturers have also focused on developing smaller-sized underpads, ideal for babies and those with light incontinence, representing a 22% rise in demand in the past two years.In response to consumer preferences for discreet products, several companies have introduced thin and compact underpads that offer high performance without compromising on comfort and absorbency. The development of these compact, ultra-absorbent underpads is meeting the rising demand for discreet, reliable incontinence solutions across various demographics.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Disposable Underpads Market 

• Introduction of Biodegradable Underpads: In 2023, Essity launched a new line of biodegradable disposable underpads, addressing growing environmental concerns. The new pads reduce waste by 30%, gaining popularity among eco-conscious consumers.

• Enhanced Absorbency Technology: In mid-2023, Medline introduced next-gen absorbent pads with multi-layered liquid lock technology, improving absorbency by 20% compared to standard underpads. This new technology enhances user comfort by preventing leakage and improving skin dryness.

• Partnership for Eco-Friendly Materials: In late 2023, Attends Healthcare partnered with sustainable material suppliers to incorporate 100% recycled fibers into their disposable underpads, reducing carbon footprint and improving their sustainability profile.

• Expansion of Product Sizes: In early 2024, Cardinal Health expanded its disposable underpad range to include smaller and larger sizes to cater to different incontinence needs, particularly focusing on the elderly and healthcare facilities.

• Online Distribution Channel Expansion: In 2024, Dynarex Corporation significantly increased its online distribution network, allowing customers to easily purchase premium disposable underpads from e-commerce platforms, resulting in a 25% increase in online sales.

Report Coverage of Disposable Underpads Market 

The Disposable Underpads Market report provides a comprehensive analysis of market dynamics, drivers, and challenges. It covers the growing demand driven by the aging population, particularly in the healthcare and elderly care sectors. The report discusses key market players such as Medline, Essity, and Cardinal Health, examining their strategic initiatives and market share.The report also provides insights into regional trends, noting that North America holds the largest market share due to high incontinence rates and strong healthcare investments. Europe follows closely, with significant adoption driven by the rise in elderly populations and incontinence awareness. Asia-Pacific is witnessing strong growth, particularly in China and India, where increasing healthcare access and urbanization are expanding the market.

Product innovation is a key focus of the report, with advancements in absorbency, biodegradability, and skin-friendly materials. The report identifies new product launches, such as biodegradable underpads, thin, high-absorbency pads, and smaller-sized underpads for babies.The analysis also highlights distribution channel shifts, with a growing online retail presence due to consumer preference for convenience. Lastly, the report addresses market opportunities, including the demand for eco-friendly products, which is expected to rise by 20% in the coming years.