Best Overnight Diapers For Adults

People who take care of other adults with special needs are some of the most selfless on the face of this planet, and if you are one of them, you have our full respect because it is NOT easy!

It’s an endeavor full of unique challenges, one of which is night-time incontinence. Realizing that a loved one is incontinent and that they need specialized products just to function is not an easy fact to face. When shopping for incontinence products, you might feel like you are robbing your loved one of their pride, freedom, and dignity.

Well, we’re happy to let you know that the market for adult diapers inst what it used to be. There are tons of great companies out there making products for special-needs adults that help them feel comfortable and dignified.

In fact, there are so many excellent incontinence products out there that it can be a little overwhelming trying to find the right ones. So how do you know which adult diapers are best for overnight use? Well, we’re about to find out. 

We are going to discuss some different types of adult diapers, what to look for when choosing one, and our top picks for the best adult overnight diapers that you can have discreetly shipped to your door via Amazon.

What to Look for in an Adult Overnight Diaper

Absorbency level

Even before you pick a size for an adult overnight diaper, you need to determine the amount of absorbency that you’re going to need. In the general adult, diapers come in three different absorbency levels, light, medium, and maximum.

If your loved one only has the occasional bed-wetting accident, you might be able to get by with a light level of absorbency. However, if they have little to no control of their bladder or bowels while they sleep, a maximum absorbency diaper is probably your best bet. 

• Light absorbency diapers can usually hold up to 12 ounces of liquid.
• Medium absorbency diapers can usually hold up to 20 ounces of liquid.
• Diapers labeled maximum absorbency typically can hold upwards of 24 ounces of liquid.

When your shopping, pay close attention to the product description. Some diapers are designed only to handle bladder incontinence, so if your loved one struggles to control their bowels during at night, you’re going to need a diaper built to handle it.

Size

It may seem obvious that you need to buy the correct size diaper, but trust me, it’s easier said than done. Like any piece of clothing, how a diaper fits varies from brand to brand. Usually, adult diapers come in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and Extra large. You can find a size chart in the product description on Amazon, but for some reason, it’s not listed there; you should be able to find it on the manufacturer’s website. 

Fit

When testing out how a diaper fits, don’t just settle for “that’ll do.” A diaper that doesn’t fit right is a recipe for a mess. Whenever trying out a new style or brand of diaper, we strongly recommend purchasing a few different sizes. It may cost a little bit extra in the beginning, but we promise it’s worth it. 

How should a diaper fit? A diaper should be snug but not tight. The elastic bands at the waist and around each leg should be just tight enough to fit two fingers. Any looser, and the contents of the diaper could spill out, any tighter, and it can cause pain and discomfort.

When changing a diaper, if you notice red marks from the diaper on your loved ones’ waste or thighs, you probably need to go up a size. 

Style

For you, as a caretaker, the style of diaper that you choose to use is going to make the biggest difference in terms of ease of use. There are three main types of overnight diapers on the market right now: Pull-ups, briefs, and reusable cloth diapers.

• Pull-ups, or incontinence underwear, are diapers that your adult child or loved one can “pull up” as if they were a pair of normal underwear. Pull-ups work well for bedwetters who have a little more independence with their bathroom needs. 
• Briefs- Like diapers designed for babies, brief diapers have tabs that allow you to adjust how the diaper fits, guaranteeing you a tight seal. Briefs often offer maximum absorbency, making them ideal if your loved one completely depends on you to change them.
• Reusable cloth diapers – reusable cloth diapers are basically reusable versions of brief diapers. After the diaper is soiled, instead of throwing it out, you can simply toss it in the wash and use it again the next day. There are two types of reusable cloth diapers, all in one and hybrid. All-in-one diapers have built-in liners, and hybrids do not. So keep in mind that the diapers you’ve picked out might need a few extra supplies to work correctly. 

The Best Overnight Diapers for Adults 

Now that you know what to look for in a diaper, it’s time to start shopping! To help make things a little easier for you, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite overnight adult diapers, based on style and absorbency level.

Best Overnight Incontinence Underwear for Men

Depend FIT-Flex Incontinence Underwear Men

Style: Pull-up underwear

Absorbency Level: maximum

For years Depend has been one of the most trusted names in adult incontinence products. As a whole, they are known for their affordability, comfort, and high absorbency levels. However, Depend has taken these three features to the next level with the FIT-Flex Incontinence underwear.

Their “DryShield Technology” allows each pair of incontinence underwear to hold upwards of 25 ounces of liquid. At the same time, the “unbelievably soft, cotton-like fabric ensures that your loved one will be comfortable all night long.

What caregivers say: 

“For us, this brand works better than any other. We use it for our son who has autism and wets every night. I always use a disposable sheet protector in case of leaks That rarely happens.” – Christina

Best Overnight Incontinence Underwear for Women

Depend FIT-Flex Incontinence Underwear for Women

Style: Pull-up underwear

Absorbency Level: maximum

We love Depends overnight incontinence underwear so much that we had to put it on this list twice! Only this time, we have the ladies in mind. Depend offers their best-selling, pull-up style diapers both for men and women. Many customers claim that the FIT-Flex diapers are the closest you can get to regular underwear in an overnight diaper.

Just as a side note, while shopping on Amazon, you might find FIT-Flex incontinence underwear “specifically designed” for overnight use. However, in reality, this is just a marketing strategy used to charge more for a re-branded product. So be sure to check the description to know exactly which version you are buying.

What caregivers say: “Unfortunately I have several physical problems and one of them is lack of bladder control. So I find myself needing to use these depends 24 seven. I have tried other products but they just are not the same. I have found depends to be the most reliable product.”

-butterflybeth

Best Adult Overnight Brief Diapers 

FitRight Ultra Adult Diapers

Style: Brief

Absorbency Level: Maximum

Unlike other adult brief style diapers, which can have an unnatural “plastic-y” feel, FitRight Ultra diapers prioritize comfort and breathability. “The 4-D-Core” fabric helps to wick away sweat and moisture, leaving the skin cool and dry. 

Another cool feature of these diapers is a moisture-sensing indicator strip that changes color when the diaper is soiled. While not everyone needs it, moisture indicators can be a helpful tool for teaching adult non-verbal children when they need to be changed or use the bathroom.

What caregivers say: 

” I have tried at least 10 different diapers, both briefs and underwear. Some offer great coverage and absorbency but are bulky, plastic back is uncomfortable and sweaty. Others won’t last overnight. This one is most comfortable, the paper like backing allows skin to breath, the little skirts inside hold stools without leaking, and best of all the tapes can be readjusted multiple times. The waistline is wide enough and the length is long enough so that the diaper does not move down to below waist. Absorbency is sufficient for whole night. It is the best brief type diaper for my husband.” – joan of New Jersey

Best Overnight Reusable Cloth Diapers

Healifty Washable Adult Cloth Diapers

Style: Reusable cloth diaper

Absorbency Level: Depends on the insert you choose

If you’re looking to ditch the disposable diapers in favor of an easy-to-use, eco-friendly alternative, look no further than “Healifty Washable Adult Cloth Diapers.” These diapers feature a cotton/polyester liner that is soft and comfortable, as well as two elastic velcro tabs that keep the diaper in place and leak-free all night long.

Keep in mind that these diapers do not come with included inserts, so you will need to purchase them separately. Check out our top picks for reusable diaper inserts here.

What caregivers say: 

 “My mom suffered a massive stroke, and now suffers from complete incontinence. We are a budget family so, in lieu of the disposable diapers we had been using, I went in search of something reusable. There’s also the planet to consider with disposables. Although it’s absolutely necessary to use a disposable pad to protect my mother’s skin from overflow, these have been a perfect alternative to disposable diapers. My mother says they are far more comfortable, and caregivers love them for ease of on/off. They wash beautifully. So happy I found this alternative. Adult cloth diapers that work are *really* hard to find.” – Sara’sLyrics

Finding the Best Adult Overnight Diaper

Don’t be afraid to play around with different styles and sizes. It’s unlikely that you’ll find the perfect overnight diaper on your first try. So be patient and flexible. You can also talk to other caregivers to see what works well for them. Our #autismarmy Facebook group is a great place to connect hundreds of people caring for special needs children and adults.

Autism and Butt Wiping: Making it Easier (And Cleaner)

So, you’ve embarked on the long journey of potty training your child, and things have been going well. Your child has fewer accidents, and they can express when they have to go to the bathroom. But now, as they are gaining more and more bathroom independence, you come to a seemingly impossible roadblock…wiping. How can you possibly teach your child to wipe themselves properly without making a huge mess? 

Why Butt Wiping is a Challenge for Kids with Autism

There are a handful of reasons why boys and girls on the spectrum struggle with wiping themselves. For some kids, it’s a sensory issue. The feel of toilet paper is extremely overwhelming to them, so they will avoid wiping themselves at all costs. For other children, they’ve gotten used to someone else doing it for them and don’t want to change. Whatever the reason, when the time comes for your son or daughter to learn to wipe by themselves, it can be challenging for you as a parent. 

With my son Curtis, it felt like an eternity before he could poop by himself without needing my help. However, after a lot of experimenting and patience, I was able to help him learn to wipe his butt on his own. I want to share with you some of the things that I wish I would’ve known when I was potty training him. These eight tips should make learning to wipe a lot easier and cleaner for you and your child.

Tip #1 Use Baby Wipes

Ok, now that you’ve got your child in the habit of making it to the bathroom and using the toilet, it’s time to start teaching them to wipe. First, you’re going to need to purchase either toilet paper or baby wipes. In my experience, wipes are the best place to start. They are softer, do a much better job of cleaning, and aren’t as overwhelming from a sensory standpoint as toilet paper.

When first introducing wipes, it’s important to make it clear that wipes go in the trash and not the toilet. Flushed wipes can back up your plumbing. Trust me, the last thing you need when potty training a child is an overflowing toilet.

Remember that while baby wipes are great for use at home, you should eventually show your child how to use toilet paper as well. Outside of the house, not every bathroom will have baby wipes readily available. So if you can train your son or daughter to use both, it will help to take away some of their anxiety about using the bathroom and prevent future accidents.

Tip #2 Stick to Your Guns

Trust me, teaching an autistic kid to wipe themselves is no walk in the park. Your patience will be tested. But no matter how much your child kicks and screams, you have to stick to your guns. They need to understand that wiping is not optional. Don’t let them leave their bathroom until their bottom is clean.

Tip # 3 Practice Outside of the Bathroom

It may sound strange, but the best place to introduce butt wiping might not be in the bathroom but instead in the kitchen! 

No, I’m not saying that your child should literally try wiping their butt in the kitchen, but there is a great activity that many parents are using to teach their children the right way to hold the toilet paper to avoid making a mess in the bathroom. All you need is a bowl, peanut butter, and some baby wipes.

The activity is simple. Put a half spoonful of peanut butter into the bottom of a large bowl and spread it around a little. Then, explain to your child that they need to use wipes to get all of the peanut butter out of the bowl without getting any on their hands. When the bowl is clean, they are done, and you can reward them with a treat.

Explain that they need to hold the wipes or toilet paper in the same way when they wipe themselves in the bathroom. It may seem a little silly, but this basic exercise can help your child visualize the correct way to wipe, preventing messy situations like fecal smearing.

Tip #4 Use Positive Reinforcement

A little motivation goes a long way when toilet training a child with ASD. So when your son or daughter does a good job in the bathroom, don’t hold back on giving them the praise they deserve. If they feel good about themselves after leaving the bathroom, naturally, they will learn to repeat the process.

When I was teaching Curtis to wipe himself, he responded well to being rewarded with treats. Whenever he used the bathroom and wiped himself, I would give him a piece of candy or allow him some extra time watching his favorite show. Instead of being afraid to use the bathroom, he learned to look forward to it, knowing he would get a treat afterward.

Tip # 5 Start Early

Please, please, please don’t wait to train your child to use the bathroom on their own. The longer you put off teaching them good bathroom habits, the harder it will be to undo the bad ones. 

As soon as your child can communicate to you that they need to go poop, you should begin to introduce the idea of wiping. Starting early will help your son or daughter understand that wiping themselves is a normal part of daily life.

Tip #6 Prepare for Accidents

While you’re going to be in the bathroom with your child when they are learning to wipe, at some point, you’re going to have to let them do it on their own. So be prepared for the occasional accident. Don’t expect them to wipe perfectly every time. There will be messes, but stay calm and try not to show any frustration. Kids pick up on how you react to things like this and may learn to see it as a way to “get back at you” when they’re upset. If you need to let your emotions out, do it in a private setting, away from your child. 

Tip #7 Get a Bidet

Some autistic kids with sensory issues have an aversion to toilet paper. They just can’t stand the way that it looks and feels, let alone wipe their bottom with it. If this is the case with your child, installing a bidet maybe your best option. It’s a win-win for both you and your child. They don’t have to use toilet paper, and you get peace of mind knowing that they’ll leave the bathroom with a clean bottom.

If you don’t have the space or the budget to install a full stand-alone bidet, I suggest checking out a bidet toilet seat. These seats are relatively inexpensive and can be installed with basic hand tools.

Tip #8 Change up Your Tactics

There is no right or wrong way to potty train your child, so you might have to play around with different methods until you find what works best for your child. If you need some fresh ideas, check out our #autismarmy Facebook page. The creative parents of the group are constantly finding new ways to overcome obstacles related to potty training autistic kids and are more than willing to share their knowledge and experience with you.

Training Takes Time…But it’s Worth it

Teaching your autistic child to wipe themselves isn’t something you can do overnight. It may take months or even years before they can completely do it on their own. So don’t get discouraged if it seems like the process is taking longer than it should. With patience and persistence, it will happen. I promise you, all of the time and effort that you put into training your son or daughter will be well worth it. 

Handling Fecal Smearing in Autism

Of all the things in this world that you could possibly wake up to in the morning, fecal smearing is one of the worst imaginable. Unfortunately, for parents of kids with autism, it’s something that some of us have to deal with on a regular basis.

To your average person, seeing a child rub poo all over themselves is shocking and disturbing, but it comes as no surprise for us. Still, even if we have experienced fecal smearing many times, it doesn’t make it any easier to deal with.

When I worked at an institution for developmentally delayed adults, fecal smearing was common, but I often didn’t had to deal with it alone. The institution was ready for this kind of thing. There were always people ready to change the sheets, wash the floors, and bathe the patients. At home, though, the toll it can take on a person is a totally different ballgame. 

Cleaning up someone else’s feces is exhausting both mentally and physically. Every time it happens, you have to strip your child, bathe them, throw their clothes in the wash, then get down on your hands and knees to scrub the floors. This whole process can take hours, leaving you stressed and emotionally drained.

If you have ever dealt with fecal smearing, I feel for you, and I want to help. In this article, I’m going to share some of the most common reasons that kids smear their feces; then, I’ll give you some ideas you can use to manage or even eliminate fecal smearing in the future.

Why do Kids Smear their Poop?

As with anything relating to autism, every kid is different. So there is no single reason why they feel the need to smear their poo. 

While your ultimate goal is to manage or even eliminate fecal smearing altogether, knowing what is causing this behavior may give you a shortcut to reach your destination faster. Here are a few common reasons that kids start smearing feces. 

• Sensory issues. as strange as it may sound, kids might want to play with their poo because they like the way it feels. Since most autistic kids have sensory perception issues to some degree, the texture, temperature, and even the smell of fecal matter may be stimulating to them.
• They have pain. In many cases, fecal smearing is a bi-product of another issue. For example, if your child is constipated or has hemorrhoids, a rash, or an infection, they may reach their hands back there to try and investigate the pain. But, if they have a loaded diaper, obviously, they’re going to get poop on their hands. So to get it off, they’ll wipe it on their clothes, the carpet, their bed, anything that happens to be nearby. 
• Diaper Leaks. Naturally, if your kid’s BM leaks out of their pants, it’s going to get all over the place. If they’re in bed, it’s going to get on the sheets. If they’re playing, it’s going to get on their toys, and the more active they are, the more their poo is going to spread around the room.
• They’re just Curious. Sometimes, kids with ASD just can’t help themselves. For whatever reason, they shove their hands down their pants, and sometimes they find something new to play with.

How to Handle Fecal Smearing

Ok, hopefully, you’ve been able to narrow down the reasons that your child might be smearing their poop. Now comes the fun part: managing this messy situation. Here are a few solutions that worked well for my son and me. I’m sure that they can help you too.

Fecal Smearing Tip: Make Sure Your Child is Regular

If you can keep your child on a regular poop schedule, it will significantly reduce the chances of them digging around back there to alleviate some of the discomforts. Having a regular BM schedule also allows you to essentially “schedule” their poops for a time when they won’t be left alone for hours on end — which will lead to fecal smearing. 

There are a lot of fiber supplements out there that can really help. However, Gummies are my favorite choice for autistic kids, especially ones who don’t like to take their “medicine.”

Before you give the gummies to your child, try them out for yourself. Pay attention to how they make you feel. Does your stomach hurt when you take them? Were your bowel movements consistent? Your own self-analysis will help you understand how your non-verbal child is feeling.

After you’ve introduced a fiber supplement to your son or daughter, be consistent. Give them their gummies at the same time every day, and try to encourage them to poop before bedtime. It also helps to keep a “poop journal.” You can take notes about when they have bowel movements, the consistency of their stool, and if they had any pain. Keeping track of their regularity will help you see when they are most likely to smear so that you can plan accordingly.

Fecal Smearing Tip: Tear Up That Carpet!

If you have carpet in your child’s room and fecal smearing is becoming an issue, tear it out! Trust me. You’ll thank yourself for doing it later. 

Not having to wash and scrub your floors constantly will do wonders for your body, both physically and mentally! If you’re skeptical about hard floors, you can always pick up a stain-resistant, machine washable rug from a company like Ruggable.

Fecal Smearing Tip: Give Jumpsuits a Try

If you’ve been around the Normal Life community for a while, you know how much I love onesies and jumpsuits. They really do work wonderfully when trying to keep the poo in the pants and the hands out. With my son, I found that when I put his onesie on backward, he couldn’t reach the zipper, so that he couldn’t smear feces on himself or other surfaces if he tried.

When at home or during the night, zip-up pajamas are a great option. Just be sure to avoid “footy” PJs. You cant put these ones on backward unless you cut the feet off.

For school and other activities outside the house, mechanics jumpsuits work great. While you can exactly put them on backward, it makes it a lot harder for your son or daughter to get into their underwear or diaper.

Fecal Smearing Tip: Double up their Undies

Let’s face it. Adult diapers stink in comparison to the ones available for babies and toddlers. They don’t fit as well and certainly don’t do as good of job holding in excrement. If your child’s diapers tend to leak, you might want to try doubling up with a pair of good ole tidy whities. 

Brief-style underwear have elastic bands that hug a child’s legs, helping to keep BMs inside. Don’t be afraid to buy underwear that fits snuggly. As long as they aren’t uncomfortable for your child, a snug fit will only help to keep poo from escaping.

Fecal Smearing Tip: Give them Something Else to Play With

For autistic kids who need extra sensory stimuli, feces’ texture, smell, and temperature can be very appealing to them. Obviously, this is not an ideal situation. Poop is not a toy. So what can you do? Fortunately, there are tons of fidget and stim toys on amazon that are specifically tailored to the needs of kids with sensory perception issues. Having toys like “Farm Beadeez” readily available in your child’s room will encourage them to engage in sensory exploration in a clean and safe way.

Take Care of Yourself

This last tip isn’t so much about the fecal smearing itself, rather about self-care. Parenting a child with special needs is challenging in itself. At times it might even feel impossible. So when your child does something like cover themselves in excrement, it can push you to your breaking point.

 If you can, try to plan in advance what you will do when things like this happen. Maybe you need to take a walk, have a good cry, or have a big glass of wine. That’s ok! You need a little “me time” to decompress and escape the stress for a while.

Need a Little More Advice?

Again, I just want to emphasize that dealing with a child who smears is not easy, and if it’s something that you are going through right now, I truly empathize with you. Just remember. You are not alone. You may be surprised to find out just how many people in the Normal life community are dealing with the exact same issues that you are. These incredible people have so much experience and knowledge to share.

Every time I read the comments on our YouTube channel, it never ceases to amaze me that a mom or dad has come up with a new genius way of approaching a common autism problem.

I encourage you to get in contact with us! You can join the #autismarmy on Facebook here, and check out our youtube channel here!

 

The Best Cloth Diaper Inserts

Chances are, you’ve made it to this page because you’ve heard about how awesome reusable cloth diapers are and you’re interested in trying them out with your child. Good for you! We promise you won’t be disappointed. Reusable diapers are an eco-friendly option that can save you a fortune.

If you’re just getting started with reusable diapers, you may have heard that need to buy some cloth diaper inserts as well. But what are they? And how do you know which ones are best for your son or daughter? 

All-In-One vs Hybrid Diapers

First, it’s important to know that there are two main types of reusable diapers: all-in-one diapers and all-in-two (aka hybrid) diapers. The former is basically a cloth version of a standard disposable diaper. These diapers have a built-in absorbent pad, so when the diaper is soiled, you can remove the whole thing, throw it in the wash, and you’re good to go. On the other hand, two-in-one hybrid diapers don’t have a built-in moisture absorber, giving you the freedom to choose the size, material, and absorbancy level of the reusable cloth insert.

There are tradeoffs to each type. For those looking to avoid some of that “gross factor” mentioned before, all-in-one diapers can’t be beaten in terms of convenience. However, that is about the only advantage they have over hybrid reusable diapers. In comparison with all-in-one’s, hybrid diapers take far less time to dry, and because the removable cloth insert takes most of the “damage,” they last a lot longer than diapers with built-in inserts.

What are Cloth Diaper Inserts?

In short, cloth diaper inserts are reusable pads placed in a diaper to absorb liquids. They are arguably the most important part of a hybrid diaper because you’re basically left with a pair of underwear without them.

Cloth diaper inserts can be used in one of two ways depending on the design of the diapers you have chosen. If your diapers have a designated pocket, you can slip the insert inside. Otherwise, you can place the reusable insert in the bottom of the diaper against your child’s skin (with the exception of microfiber inserts). 

If you’re new to reusable diapers, the lingo can be a bit confusing. For example, you might see two seemingly identical products labeled differently; one as an insert and another as a booster. In a physical sense, these two products are identical. However, they differ in how they are used. Boosters are intended to be used with all-in-one diapers to “boost” or “double” absorbancy, while inserts are designed to be used as a stand-alone option. In the end, it’s just a marketing tactic to sell the same product to a broader group of consumers.

Be careful, though, not to confuse inserts with liners when shopping. These two products are made to do two entirely things. While inserts absorb moisture, liners are designed to allow liquids to pass through them, catching solids and preventing them from soaking into the diaper itself.

Different types of Inserts

Because older kids and teens with autism pee a lot more than toddlers or babies, you’re going to want to make sure that you find the inserts that are both ultra-absorbent and comfortable for your child. Fortunately, with the growing popularity of reusable diapers, there are many great options to choose from. Microfiber, cotton, hemp, and bamboo, are four of the most common materials used in cloth diaper inserts; and each has its unique pros and cons.

Microfiber

Because they are so easy to manufacture, microfiber cloth inserts are the most affordable and easy-to-find options. If your reusable diapers came with a few included inserts, chances are they were made from microfiber. The synthetic material does a great job of quickly and effectively soaking up moisture. However, once microfiber inserts reach their absorbancy limit, they struggle to hold the moisture in and are prone to compression leaking.

Unfortunately, the drawbacks don’t stop there. Unlike natural materials, microfiber quickly drys out and irritates the skin, making these inserts a valid option only if your diapers have a designated insert pocket. Additionally, since microfiber is plastic-based, it is not biodegradable, making it less friendly to the environment than comparable materials. 

Cotton

Cotton is a fantastic alternative to microfiber if you are looking for a natural option at an affordable price. Like microfiber, cotton absorbs quickly, is easy to wash, and is very soft to the touch. Keep in mind, though, that these inserts do tend to wear out relatively quickly, so you might have to replace them more frequently than with inserts made from other materials.

Bamboo

If you are willing to spend a little more on a natural, long-lasting cloth insert option, it’s hard to beat bamboo. Bamboo inserts are lightweight, ultra-absorbent, and do a great job of keeping the skin cool. In addition, inserts made from bamboo are among the best for locking in moisture and preventing compression leaks, making them an excellent choice for overnight use. While bamboo is a very durable and long-lasting material, some parents say that over time, bamboo inserts tend to lose their fluffiness, but your mileage may vary.

Hemp

Hemp inserts are often referred to as “luxury” products, and for a good reason. In terms of absorption levels, moisture-locking, and longevity, hemp works in a way that no other insert material does. Inserts made from this natural fiber actually become softer and more absorbent over time. 

Hemp fibers are very porous and are filled with natural oils. So with every wash, tiny holes open up, rinsing away some of those oils, leaving more room to absorb moisture as well as creating a fluffier texture. The only drawback that hemp inserts have is that the more absorbent they become, the longer they take to dry. 

In addition, being a “luxury product” also means that hemp inserts don’t come cheap. So if you’re interested in buying hemp cloth inserts, expect to pay a lot more than what you would for microfiber or cotton.

Our Top Picks for Cloth Diaper Inserts

Now that you know all about the different available types of cloth diaper inserts, it’s time to find one that best suits your family’s needs. Here, we have compiled a list of our favorite cloth inserts based on the material they are made with. 

The Best Microfiber Diaper Inserts

LukLoy Bamboo Microfiber Inserts

In terms of value, these LukLoy microfiber cloth inserts are among the best you’ll find on amazon. These inserts come in a pack of 6 for just under $32 and feature a blend of microfiber and bamboo for a combination of fast moisture absorption and maximum liquid retention (a unique feature at this price point.)

The Best Cotton Cloth Inserts

Leak Master Cotton Adult Diaper Inserts – 3 Pack

If you need a natural and straightforward reusable diaper insert at an affordable price point, look no further than LEAK MASTER. These Inserts offer a comfortable, no-frills design that will keep your son or daughter dry and throughout the day. 

As is the case with most cotton garments, there is a shrink factor with these inserts. LEAK MASTER claims that each insert will shrink by about 10% after the first few washing cycles, so take this into consideration when choosing from one of the three available sizes. 

The Best Bamboo Cloth Diaper Inserts

Simlug 5 Layer Reusable Adult Cloth Diaper Inserts

Finding a genuine bamboo cloth diaper insert can be hard to do online. Particularly on amazon, companies will claim in the product description that their inserts are made from bamboo when in reality, it is just a bamboo sleeve stuffed with microfiber. Fortunately, this isn’t the case with these 5-layer “Reusable Adult Cloth Diaper Inserts” from Slimlug.

With five super absorbent layers made from true bamboo fiber, these inserts offer maximum leak protection, making them an ideal choice for both day and night use.

The Best Hemp Diaper Inserts 

Lukara Hemp Cloth Diaper Inserts

If you have a “heavy wetter” living under your roof, you need an insert that can hold a lot of moisture without the risk of compression leaks. With a blend of 55% hemp fibers and 45% organic cotton, Lukara Hemp Cloth Diaper Inserts can give you that protection while offering optimal comfort. 

Unlike similar densely packed materials, like microfiber or cotton, the hemp fiber that Lukara uses in their inserts is lightweight and breathable, allowing your child to stay cool and comfortable when wearing one.

It’s important to note that these inserts are listed as child-size in the amazon description; however, with dimensions of 15×5.25 inches, they are the same size, if not larger than the other adult-sized inserts on this list.

Making Reusable Diapers Part of a Normal Life

If you’re thinking of making the switch from disposable to reusable diapers and need a little more help finding the perfect cloth insert, please let us know! As always, our goal is to give you as much information as we can regarding behavior, education, and products pertaining to autism. 

We also encourage you to check out our youtube channel and to join our #autismarmy Facebook group. Our community is constantly growing with dedicated moms, dads, and caregivers looking to help their kids live normal lives.

Is Keto The Best Diet For Autism?

Paleo & vegan & keto, oh my! With a constant rotation of trending diets, It can be hard to keep up and sift through which diets are actually beneficial and which are just fads. Of course, everybody is different. A diet that changes one person’s life might prove to be completely useless (or even damaging) to someone else’s health. 

Throw in an autism diagnosis, and it’s even more challenging to find the right foods to eat and to avoid. 

Many families with autism swear by the keto diet. Claims have been made that this diet is excellent for behavioral improvements. However, committing to the keto diet can be challenging, and improvements aren’t always immediately seen. 

Since there are so many different opinions regarding the keto diet, we want to supply you with the facts so you can decide which diet is best for your family member with autism. 

Let’s dive into the science behind the keto diet, what benefits some claim to see, and why others are hesitant to implement this diet. 

What Is The Keto Diet?

Healthline explains, “It involves drastically reducing carbohydrate intake and replacing it with fat. This reduction in carbs puts your body into a metabolic state called ketosis.” In short, the keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet.

Putting the body in a state of nutritional ketosis leads to increased energy as the body can burn fat more efficiently in this state. As a result, the body’s primary energy source is now fat. In turn, there are more ketones producing energy in the brain. 

To maintain a low-carb, high-fat diet, foods you would avoid include sugar, grains, starches, fruits, beans, root vegetables, natural sweeteners, and unhealthy fats. Instead, you would focus on eating whole and nutritionally dense foods like meats, fish, eggs, dairy, olive oil, avocados, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other low-carb vegetables. 

As it is a seemingly restrictive diet, let’s switch gears and focus on the benefits some claim to experience!

What Are The Benefits of Keto For Individuals With Autism?

Most people start the keto diet to lose weight, but it has also improved medical conditions such as epilepsy and heart disease. Other benefits are reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, and acne.

Thankfully, more studies have focused on the link between diet and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in recent years, so there isn’t a shortage of research to review before deciding on a diet. In addition, some studies have focused primarily on ketogenic diets to analyze if they are just a fad or if they have genuine benefits. 

For example, researchers who conducted a study at the University of Calgary say that kids with autism following a ketogenic diet showed “improved behavior and changed the metabolism and trace elements in their bodies.” They think this is a result of the brain having produced more energy thanks to the increase of ketones. We can’t forget to mention the kids partaking in this study were on a modified ketogenic diet. 

A second study shows a modified ketogenic diet is beneficial in improving social effects and behaviors in children with autism. A different study saw “noticeable improvements in learning, social behavior, speech, cooperation, stereotypy, and hyperactivity.” 

Interestingly enough, many individuals with autism are affected by mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria make up a massive portion of the energy our body needs. When your body is in a state of ketosis, it increases mitochondria, which is another added bonus to a keto diet.

Of course, behavioral improvements will not happen overnight, and even within the mentioned studies, not every participant saw results. 

Why Some Are Skeptical

Sounds too good to be true? Some think so! Many arguments against a ketogenic diet to treat autism are based on these same studies. For example, some of these studies were conducted on small groups of participants and didn’t report the long-term effects of sticking with a keto diet as the studies lasted for a few months. 

At the same time, it’s a pretty restrictive diet. If you have a picky eater, following a keto diet might be just about impossible. 

As with any diet, it takes time to see changes. If your child doesn’t stick to the diet, all the effort might prove to be in vain.

We want to provide you with the information you need to decide. So, before deciding, ask yourself:

• What are their current dietary restrictions?
• How will the food budget change with a new diet?
• Will they be compliant with this new diet?
• Am I prepared to follow and cook a new meal plan?
• Will the whole family be on board, or will I need to duplicate meals?

Of course, what we put into our bodies should be healthy and nutritional, but as with everything in life, our diet should balance it. So while keto isn’t for everyone, there are plenty of other diets that families with an autistic member have come to love. 

For example, a gluten-free and casein-free diet (GFCF) is another popular diet that many parents are implementing to benefit their child’s autism. Since it means avoiding certain foods, it’s also referred to as an elimination diet. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Casein is a protein found in mammal’s milk. So, following a casein-free diet means avoiding milk and other dairy products. 

What’s Best For Your Family

If you are still unsure about following a keto diet after looking at the studies and pros and cons of a keto diet, talk to your physician or consult with a dietician! They will no doubt give you loads more information and advice. 

Health fads come and go, but the basics of leading a healthy lifestyle don’t really change. Of course, as new research comes out, we keep learning new ways to care for our bodies and families. 

Whether you decide to start with a gluten-free diet or jump all the way in with a keto diet, we are here to cheer you on! Have you already switched to a new diet and noticed behavioral changes? We would love to hear your feedback! 

Autism and Diet: Can Diet Cause Autism?

As a parent of an autistic child, you’ve probably spent hours and hours on the internet, sifting through pages of conflicting opinions about the best ways to raise your kid. So it probably comes as no surprise that there’s a ridiculous amount of criticism and speculation surrounding something as simple as food.

It seems like half the community wants to label one food as “a cure” while the other half wants to condemn it as “poisonous.” Sadly, this constant stream of differing opinions can make it super difficult to find reliable information regarding nutrition for your son or daughter on the spectrum. But, don’t worry, we’re here to clear up a little bit of that confusion!

In this article were going to take a look at food from a couple of different angles. First, we’ll check out some recent medical findings of prenatal nutrition, addressing the important question: Can diet cause autism? Then, we’ll talk about some helpful ways you can ensure your son or daughter is getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need to live their best life. 

Fair warning, we’re about to dive pretty deep into a recent medical study, so put on your thinking caps; things are about to get really “science-y.”

Why has Autism Become So Common?

The fact of the matter is, autism spectrum disorders are becoming more and more common. Studies conducted by the CDC show that the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) this year is five times higher than twenty years ago, rising from one in every 150 kids to one in every 44 being medically diagnosed with some form of ASD. Those numbers are CRAZY! If things continue at the rate they are now, in twenty more years, nearly every kid will be born with some level of autism.

Its alarming stats like these that have parents and scientists asking the same question: Why? Why are there so many kids being born with autism? 

The good news is, more than ever before, researchers are determined to find answers. Every day, extensive investigation goes into finding causes for these rising numbers of autism diagnoses, and more importantly, what can be done to prevent kids from developing ASD in the future.

Is Food to Blame for the Rising Number of Autistic Children?

“Don’t drink, don’t smoke, and don’t do drugs; follow those rules, and your baby will come out just fine.” Sound familiar? Oh, if only it were only that simple. While these guidelines are a great place to start if you’re expecting, by no means do they guarantee a perfectly healthy birth. Every day autistic babies are born to moms who did “everything right” during their pregnancy.

Unfortunately, apart from these obvious “unwritten rules” there is very little information regarding what factors may increase the chances of a child being born with ASD. Some researchers suggest that a pregnant mother’s age, genetics, and environment play a large part. However, recently, scientists have been devoting much effort to researching a somewhat unexplored factor: prenatal diet. Can certain foods consumed by pregnant mothers increase the risk of having a child born with autism? Let’s take a look at what we know so far. 

The Foods in Question

Medical Researcher Dr. Saleh Naser, and his team at UCF College of Medicine Orlando, have recently discovered a potential medical breakthrough in the link to prenatal diet and autism.

The university scientists found that exposure to high levels of propionic acid (PPA) during pregnancy can directly affect nervous system development in the brains of unborn children. Propionic acid is a naturally occurring chemical that the body produces as food ferments in the digestive system. PPA is also added to many processed foods to enhance flavor and prolong shelf-life. 

Usually, consistent amounts of propionic acid are not a cause for concern. However, when a person’s PPA levels suddenly increase, problems can begin to arise, especially during pregnancy. The brilliant minds at the UCF College of medicine explain it this way:

• “If a pregnant woman consumes a significant amount of processed foods, PPA levels can spike.”
• “In excess, PPA impacts a fetus’ brain by reducing the development of neurons — cells that tell other body cells how to function. This can also damage neurons’ communication pathways throughout the body.”
• “High amounts of PPA also cause an overproduction of glial cells. These cells protect neuron function, but too many cells disrupt the connection between neurons and causes inflammation in the brain and the rest of the body.”

Put simply, PPA levels during pregnancy seem to directly correlate with the likelihood that a child will exhibit typical ASD behavior, such as trouble communicating and stimming behavior like rocking back and forth or hand flapping after birth.

Which Foods Contain Propionic Acid and Should you Avoid Them?

PPA is commonly used as a preservative in many processed foods like cheese, dried fruit products, and baked goods such as bread, tortillas, and pre-packaged pastries. If you want to limit your intake of propionic acid, experts suggest checking the ingredients on the packaging for: 

• Methyl propionate
• Sodium propionate
• Calcium propionate

The connection between propionic acid and neural development is still being studied. While there is no sure-fire way to guarantee that your baby will be born without signs of autism, it never hurts to air on the side of caution. As hard as it may be cutting down on processed foods during pregnancy can be a great way to maximize the potential for healthy fetal brain growth, and it’s better for your overall health in general. 

Can Diet be Used to Treat Autism?

Let’s switch gears now and examine another aspect of nutrition. We’ve established a possible connection between prenatal diet and autism, but what if you have a son or daughter who has already been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder? Can their diet affect their overall health and cognitive ability? 

Put simply; there is no “cure” for autism. However, implementing certain foods into your child’s diet (and possibly removing some) can significantly improve their overall quality of life. When analyzing an autism-based diet, there are two main ways to look at food. First, from a nutritional perspective, and second, viewing certain foods as triggers can cause your son or daughter to react unfavorably.

Nutrition and Autism

One study showed that kids on the spectrum often lack fiber, folic acid, calcium, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B6, and B12. All of these vitamins and minerals are crucial to your child’s development and overall well-being. Fortunately, there are tons of fun and tasty foods that you can implement into your child’s diet to ensure they are receiving all the vital nutrients that their little bodies need. Here are a few examples, broken down by each essential vitamin and mineral.

Fiber	beans, broccoli, avocados, apricots, figs, potatoes. nuts
Folic Acid	whole grains, spinach, peanuts,, asparagus
Calcium	kale, soy beans, yogurt, chia seeds, cheese
Iron	peas, salmon, tuna, fortified breakfast cereals, pumpkin seeds
ZInc	chicken, chick peas, cashews, almonds, pork chops
Vitamin A	red peppers, carrots, sweet potatoes, mangos
Vitamin C	oranges, strawberries, brussel sprouts, pineapple
Vitamin D	eggs, oatmeal, salmon
Vitamin E	peanut butter, pumpkin, sunflower seeds, dark chocolate
Vitamin K	Prunes, blackberries, pomegranates, kiwis, tomatoes
Vitamin B6	Papaya, canteloupe, turkey, tofu, beets, pistachios, garlic
Vitamin B12	Clams, shrimp, eggs, beef, trout

 

Also, just as a side note, if you haven’t done so already, we encourage you to visit your child’s doctor or nutritionist. Gluten and lactose allergies are common among autistic children. Since many kids can’t communicate how they feel with words, they may have one of these allergies without you ever knowing about it. 

Trigger Foods

Every kid has meals that they like and dislike, but for boys and girls living with ASD, certain foods may cause them to stress or even panic. Most of the time, It boils down to sensory perception. For some kids, foods with specific colors, intense flavors, or unfamiliar textures can be overwhelming to their senses. 

Be prepared, learning which foods trigger negative reactions in your child can be a challenge. It may seem like they suddenly have an avulsion to every new meal you put in front of them. In this situation, it’s best to start simple. Try to identify a few foods that they tolerate, and gradually make slight changes to your recipes to incorporate other ingredients. 

When trying to incorporate a specific vitamin-rich food, smoothies might just become your new best friend. Sweet fruits easily mask the flavors of “undesirable” foods like vegetables, allowing you to give them essential nutrients while providing a cool and tasty treat.

It’ll take some time, but with some creativity, you can gradually turn trigger foods into meals that your autistic son or daughter will actually crave, and who knows, you might even have some fun doing it. For more tips on getting your child to try new foods, check out this article here. 

Share Your Nutrition Tips with us!

We hope that this information has helped shed some light on the importance of a healthy diet both before and after a child is born. It’s awesome to see so much research finally going into this important part of daily life. New discoveries and studies regarding nutrition and autism are being published every day, so as always, we encourage you to do your own research and let us know what you find! 

The Cheapest Adult Diapers For Families on a Budget

Between groceries, clothes, gas, mortgage, and phone bills, your family, like many others, might be struggling to stick to a monthly budget. Households with family members with autism or other medical conditions have a different list of expenses with medications, doctor appointments, and specialized education. 

On top of all these necessary expenses, some caretakers spend upwards of $300 monthly on incontinence supplies, like adult diapers, for their households. 

Parents have less time to find employment outside of the home as they dedicate most of their time to caretaking; all these factors make sticking to a monthly budget, not just important but essential. 

Additional and necessary products for your adult child with autism shouldn’t become a burden you have to carry. So let’s take a look at how you can find and select cheap adult diapers for your family on a budget without compromising quality.

The Challenge of Finding Affordable Adult Diapers 

What’s the difference between adult diapers and children’s diapers? Other than size, the most significant difference is the levels of absorbency. Children’s diapers are not as absorbent as adult diapers. Therefore, older children and adults need materials that can absorb greater quantities of moisture than an infant or toddler would require. 

Unfortunately, that means adult diapers come with a heftier price tag. If your child goes through several a day, this can easily take a toll on your wallet. 

As a result, some families have switched to a more sustainable and affordable option, cloth diapers. While they are initially a pricier option, investing in cloth diapers can save you money in the future. 

But we understand if your family isn’t eager to make the switch to cloth diapers. After all, they have their downsides when the time comes to clean them. Additionally, some have found them to lack sufficient absorbency. Therefore, the popular alternative is disposable diapers. But within the category of disposable diapers, there are several different options to choose between. So, how do you know which option is best for your child? 

What to Look For in an Adult Diaper

Adult diapers come in many different forms. While a lot depends on personal preference, it is vital to acknowledge what level of incontinence your loved one has, as this will factor in purchasing affordable adult diapers. Most diaper companies split this into four categories: light, moderate, heavy, and maximum.

Light Absorbency 

Individuals with light or infrequent leaks typically opt for this option. It’s easier to find comfortable options that feel like underwear while still offering protection for a couple of hours when looking for light absorbency. Most of the time, pads are an excellent substitute for light leaks. 

Moderate Absorbency 

If your child is active during the day but still has bladder leaks, moderate absorbency is a safe option. Moderate absorbency diapers will allow them to go a long period without changing and leave them feeling comfortable. 

Heavy Absorbency 

Heavy absorbency is ideal if they deal with both bladder and bowel incontinence. In addition, if your child is out and about for most of the day, heavy absorbency diapers can give you ease of mind and confidence that they won’t leak. 

Maximum Absorbency 

Maximum absorbency is often referred to as overnight. This option is perfect for ensuring a good night’s rest without concerns of leaking or changing the diaper in the middle of the night. Overnight diapers typically work between 8-10 hours. 

You may probably need to purchase a couple of different diapers with different levels of absorbency. Many families switch between two options—one for the day and a different one at night.

Once you have identified the level of absorbency, you need to decide what type of diaper to use. There are several options, but we will focus on the most commonly used: pull-on diapers, diapers with tabs, and belted diapers. Thankfully, these options come in varying levels of absorbency. 

Pull-on Diapers

Pull-on diapers are great to use if your child doesn’t need your help with getting the diaper on. Your child will need to pull them up like they would in their underwear. Pull-on diapers are often a more comfortable option as they are not quite as bulky as diapers with tabs. In addition, many brands have a mess-free rip-off feature that allows you to tear off the diaper quickly.

Diapers With Tabs

Although they come in adult sizes and increased absorbency levels, diapers with tabs are what your typical infant diaper looks like. Often, the tabs are re-fastenable, but these might be a bit more tricky for your child with autism to put on and take off when compared to a pull-on diaper.

Belted Diapers

Also referred to as belted pads, belted diapers use straps and a long core or pad to soak up moisture. Many prefer belted diapers as they can comfortably use underwear on top of the pads. They are discreet but still offer maximum protection.

There isn’t a better or more affordable choice when deciding what type of diaper to purchase. Most of it will depend on what works best for your child. 

Cheapest Adult Diapers For Families on a Budget

Cutting costs shouldn’t always equate to cutting quality. For example, finding discount adult diapers doesn’t mean using ones that don’t hold up or are absorbent. So, we have compiled a list of the cheapest adult diapers for sale on Amazon that won’t break the bank but still offer quality protection. 

Tena Dry Comfort Pull-On

Price: $0.57 per unit

Unisex

Absorbency: Moderate

Tena’s diapers help give your child independence with their easy pull-up feature and tear-away material when they are ready to come off. In addition, these diapers use Dry-Comfort thanks to breathable fabrics that look and feel like a pair of underwear. 

McKesson Adult Diaper

Price: $0.40 per unit

Unisex

Absorbency: Heavy

McKesson Adult Diapers have a unique hook and loop tab. These tabs make refastening throughout the day a quicker and easier process. In addition, heavy absorbency means your loved one can feel comfortable as they go out and about and enjoy the day.

Attends Breathable Briefs

• 

Price: $0.40 per unit

Unisex

Absorbency: Heavy

Attends prides themself on offering confident protection, and that’s just what their breathable briefs do. This classic brief style has a three-tier moisture locking system to prevent leaks and trap in odors. As a result, they are comfortable, and the outer layer of fabric offers a discreet look and feel to avoid bulkiness.   

Prevail Briefs

Price: $0.42 per unit
Unisex

Absorbency: Maximum

This large pack of briefs offers maximum protection against leaks. It features ventilated waistbands that provide increased airflow and dry-lock tabs for a comfortable fit all day long. In addition, the wicking technology and materials reduce discomfort against the skin. 

Solimo Underwear for Men

Price: $0.53 per unit

Absorbency: Maximum

Amazon’s brand of brief diapers comes in four different sizes and offers maximum absorbency. Solimo’s diapers have the same feel as a pair of underwear and use dry-fit to help control moisture and temperature to keep their skin healthy and dry for several hours. 

Tena ProSkin Underwear for Women

Price: $0.50 per unit

Absorbency: Maximum

Tena ProSkin Underwear offers maximum protection while having the seal of approval of being gentle on the skin. The leg elastics help them stay comfortable throughout the night and are 100% breathable. When morning comes, the tear-away sides make cleaning up fast and easy. 

Prevail Incontinence Belted Shields

Price: $0.50 per unit

Absorbency: Maximum

Prevail belted shields use buttonholes to keep the diaper and straps in place securely. Breathable zones allow your child to enjoy a comfortable night’s rest without sacrificing protection. Maxorb gel to hold moisture and odor. 

To help you find the right size, most brands have a size chart to review before purchasing. In addition, some offer free sample pairs to help you find the best option and fit and can be reimbursed with an FSA (Flex Spending Account). 

The Hunt For Affordable Adult Diapers

If diapers are a necessity in your family’s home, then you shouldn’t have to cut corners to stick to your monthly budget. Instead, planning and finding affordable options can save you hundreds a year. 

Sticking to a budget isn’t always an easy task to follow. Prices and circumstances are constantly changing. But, despite it all, we want to help you tackle it all and take care of your family. With patience and a few attempts at finding the correct pairs, you can find the best and cheapest adult diaper for your family on a budget.