Topic Overview

Never force a child to wear diapers or rubber pants at night for bed-wetting. But some children may choose to wear nighttime training pants, which are a type of disposable diaper or underpants. These are easier than wet sheets to change in the middle of the night, and some children may not mind wearing them. There are many sizes available, and most children can find one that will fit. If they choose, older children may be able to wear a small adult disposable undergarment, such as Attends or Depend.

If your child chooses to wear disposable underpants, here are some suggestions.

• Encourage your child to get up and take off the wet underpants as soon as your child notices the wetness.
• Teach your child to use disposable wet wipes or a damp washcloth to clean urine off the skin to prevent irritation, rashes, and urinary tract infections.
• Provide a special container for disposing of wet disposable underpants to reduce odor.