English translation of an article originally published in Japanese on June 10, 2021. Read the Japanese original (Japanese). Product information and dates refer to the original article. Images and manufacturer videos may contain Japanese.
What is a waterproof sheet?
It prevents urine or stool leakage during sleep from soiling a futon or mattress. Washing and drying a futon or mattress after every leak is demanding. Using a waterproof sheet can reduce the caregiving burden. Waterproof sheets are recommended when leakage is frequent. A wide range of types and sizes makes it possible to choose one suited to individual circumstances.
Disposable paper absorbent sheets are also available.
Types of waterproof sheet
The main types are partial sheets, full-surface sheets, and fitted covers. Materials are often polyester or cotton. Fabrics include pile and denim: pile feels soft against the skin, while denim is durable. Some products offer deodorizing or quick-drying features. Others have good moisture-vapor permeability.
Covers only the area that needs protection. Both ends are tucked beneath the mattress to hold it in place.
Secured by elastic around the mattress’s four corners, covering its entire top surface. Relatively easy to change, but stretched elastic may no longer hold it securely. Some versions have sides that tuck beneath the mattress.
Wraps around the mattress. More demanding to fit, but less likely to shift because it covers the entire mattress. Some products are compatible with air mattresses. Check compatibility with the mattress in use.
Waterproof sheet sizes
For a partial waterproof sheet, choose enough width to tuck it well under both sides of the mattress. For example, 145cm-wide sheets are available for 91cm-wide mattresses. Caregiving mattresses come in combinations such as widths of 83cm or 91cm and lengths of 180cm or 191cm; thickness also varies by product. For rented mattresses or air mattresses, ask the welfare equipment rental provider about dimensions and compatible sheets. For a full-surface sheet, check mattress length and the fastening method. For a fitted cover, measure mattress length, width, and thickness before buying. Check actual measurements for non-caregiving mattresses and futons as well.
How to choose a waterproof sheet
A partial sheet is convenient if the area at risk of soiling is limited and there is working space between the bed and wall. However, because it tucks under the mattress, changing it is difficult when there is no space beside the bed. A full-surface waterproof sheet secured by elastic at the corners is relatively easy to change, but covers a larger area. Some full-surface products also tuck under the mattress and need working space beside the bed. Fitted covers take more effort to change. The feel against the skin also varies with the material. Choose after considering the person’s condition and preferences.
For someone with skin problems related to trapped heat and moisture, choose a waterproof sheet with moisture-vapor permeability.
Waterproof sheet precautions
Some products cannot be tumble-dried or spin-dried, while others allow this under specified conditions. Carefully check the care label and manufacturer’s precautions.
Tips for changing waterproof sheets
Fit the sheet without wrinkles, which can put stress on the skin. Leave enough space beside a care bed for one person to pass and work.
Waterproof sheet products
There are too many types and sizes to cover here, so only a small selection is introduced. Consulting a welfare equipment specialist is best.
Refre Waterproof Sheet, Pile Type measures 145×90cm. It has a pile surface and waterproof film backing.
Source: Livedo Corporation official website
Hakujuji’s Salva Care Sheet, Sarasara Absorbent Type is a 90×145cm partial sheet. The surface absorbs moisture, while waterproof backing film prevents seepage into bedding. Washable and reusable.
Source: Hakujuji official website
Taketora’s Three-Layer Waterproof Sheet is a 141×88cm partial sheet. Its waterproof layer is sandwiched between smooth fabrics on both sides. Washable and reusable. The two-sheet pack provides a spare for laundry changes.
Source: Taketora official website
Kowa Seisakusho’s TacaoF Waterproof Sheet SE01 is a 145×90cm partial sheet. The skin-contact surface is pile, with a waterproof film on the reverse. Washable and reusable.
Source: Kowa Seisakusho official website
Kameya’s Waterproof Sheet, Denim Type 100-10 measures approximately 90×175cm, with a waterproof area of approximately 90×105cm. It is a denim partial sheet.
Source: AS ONE product information
Pigeon Tahira’s Waterproof Sheet for Adults measures 90×140cm in the regular size and 95×180cm in size L. It has a brushed pile surface and waterproof backing.
Source: Pigeon Tahira official website
Kawamoto’s current With Yell series includes half-body and full-body types. Choose according to the area you want to protect from soiling.
Source: Kawamoto product list
Washing and drying take time, so keeping approximately two sheets provides reassurance when leakage is frequent.
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