Standard Sizes for Disposable Underpads
Underpads come in several standard dimensions. Selecting the correct size for your resident population is the first step in optimizing your procurement. Below is the typical size chart used across Canadian LTC facilities:
| Size (inches) | Best For | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 17" x 24" | Wheelchair, chair, or patient transport | Light protection, short-term use during transfers |
| 23" x 36" | Standard twin bed (most common LTC size) | Moderate incontinence, daily bedding protection |
| 30" x 30" | Wider beds or bariatric chairs | Broader coverage for repositioning residents |
| 36" x 36" | Bariatric beds or heavy incontinence | Maximum absorbency and full mattress coverage |
The 23" x 36" size is the standard workhorse for most Canadian LTC homes, offering a good balance of coverage and cost-efficiency for single-bed rooms.
Understanding Absorbency Ratings
Not all underpads absorb equally. Most disposable underpads in Canada use a multi-layer construction: a soft top sheet, an absorbent pulp-core (often blended with SAP — super absorbent polymer), and a waterproof polyethylene backing.
Absorbency is typically rated in millilitres (mL). Common tiers include:
- Light (300–500 mL): Suitable for light incontinence or as a secondary protective layer.
- Moderate (500–900 mL): Ideal for most LTC residents with regular incontinence.
- Heavy (900–1500 mL): Recommended for overnight use or residents with heavy incontinence.
- Max (1500+ mL): For bariatric care or extended periods between changes.
For most Canadian LTC facilities, a moderate-to-heavy absorbency underpad (800–1200 mL) paired with a 23" x 36" size offers the best value and performance for daily use.
What LTC Procurement Teams Need to Know
1. Health Canada Compliance
All medical devices sold in Canada must meet Health Canada regulations. Disposable underpads are Class I medical devices. Ensure your supplier provides a valid Medical Device Establishment Licence (MDEL) and that the products are listed in the Health Canada Medical Devices Database.
2. Fluid Barrier Performance
Look for underpads tested to ASTM or AAMI standards for fluid barrier performance, particularly the waterproof backing. A quality underpad should hold fluid without strike-through (fluid leaking back through the top sheet).
3. Odour Control
Many Canadian LTC homes prioritize odour-neutralizing technology. If odour management is a concern, look for underpads with activated carbon or similar odour-control layers.
4. Eco-Friendly Options
Sustainability is increasingly important in Canadian healthcare procurement. Some suppliers now offer disposable underpads with plant-based SAP or biodegradable components. These can align with your facility’s environmental goals while maintaining clinical performance.
5. Bulk Pricing and Contracts
Volume pricing is standard for LTC procurement. Negotiate per-unit cost based on annual volume, and consider consolidating with other disposable products (e.g., gloves, gowns) from the same supplier to leverage better rates.
Summary Checklist for LTC Procurement
- ✅ Choose the 23" x 36" size as your baseline; add larger sizes for bariatric units
- ✅ Select moderate-to-heavy absorbency (800–1200 mL) for general use
- ✅ Verify Health Canada MDEL compliance
- ✅ Confirm proper fluid barrier performance (no strike-through)
- ✅ Evaluate odour-control and eco-friendly options
- ✅ Negotiate bulk pricing with reliable Canadian distributors
Making informed choices when purchasing disposable underpads in Canada ensures your LTC home delivers optimal resident care while managing costs effectively. CliniEco Medical partners with trusted Canadian suppliers to provide quality underpads tailored to the needs of long-term care facilities.
Related Reading
Explore more guides in this category:
0 comments