Guest article by Kevin Deerin
Incontinence affects approximately 13 million Americans according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. This means a significant number of disposable products are going into landfills across the country.
Caregiver, have you wondered how you can help reduce the environmental impact while caring for your care recipient? If the person you’re caring for lives with incontinence, washable incontinence underwear is a worthy option.
Washable incontinence underwear offer comfort in a variety of attractive styles. These undergarments are available in bikini, high-rise, boxers, and briefs for women and men. Some ladies’ garments even include lace for elegant evening wear. These products are designed to be worn and washed repeatedly. They fit smoothly under any attire without the bulkiness of disposable garments.
Washable incontinence underwear help to reduce the environmental impact of disposable products. According to Global Market Insights [TCV Update 4/12/2020: Marketwatch URL no longer available], the market for disposable incontinence products is estimated to grow 63% in the next half-dozen years – from $9.5 billion in 2019 from to more than $15 billion by 2025.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that the average American creates 4.40 pounds of trash daily – a staggering 254 million tons of waste, nationwide, per year.
Not only do disposable undergarments add to the environmental threat, but the plastics can irritate those with sensitive skin. Some of the plastic used in disposable underwear can take up to a thousand years to fully decompose.
According to the EPA, the amount of plastic thrown away each year could circle the earth four times. Many want to preserve our planet for future generations. There is greater recognition and increased interest in what can be done to contribute towards positive change. Small steps such as switching from disposable to reusable products create a larger impact than we realize and enable us to leap toward a healthier planet.
Disposable underwear is convenient in an emergency or when caregiving grows exhausting. Yet, reusable incontinence briefs and panties fit more comfortably. No one wants to wear itchy, thick, unattractive underwear.
Washable incontinence wear allows one to wear almost any type of clothing without fear of leakage. Plus, they cost less over time while being ecologically sensitive.
Unisex disposable products may be here to stay, but more companies are creating sustainable and reusable options. Today, it’s easier to find the right fit, absorbency level, and even the desired fabric color, while contributing towards a healthier and reduced waste-free planet.
Many want a new option for incontinence. There’s greater awareness of the need to sustain our planet, curb our waste, and reduce carbon footprints. The desire to feel attractive and assured while living with incontinence was not easily fulfilled until the reusable adult underwear market began to expand.
Thanks to companies focused on comfortable incontinence solutions, the ability to walk in comfort and with pride is available to those living with incontinence. Additionally, the garments available to men and women are chic while being reusable for up to 200 washes.
By 2030, the trash created annually will double to 300 million tons per year, according to fact site The World Counts. Give yourself peace of mind about the planet, yourself, and your loved ones with reusable incontinence underwear that has a perfect fit and eye-catching styles for both men and women.
Kevin Deerin has worked with Wearever Incontinence for more than 12 years. During that time, he has researched incontinence causes, products and ways to help improve the lives of those who live with incontinence. Over his years of research, he has spoken with thousands of caregivers and people living with incontinence.
Wearever Incontinence provided a small sum of support to The Caregiver’s Voice.
