Our Disappointing Experience with Prevail Underpads
At All Seniors Foundation, we regularly test and review a wide range of senior care products, from mobility aids to incontinence solutions. Recently, we tried out Prevail Underpads, also known as chux pads, expecting a high-quality product for our community members. However, our experience fell short of expectations. Below is our candid review, culminating in a 1 out of 5 rating.
Product Overview
Marketed as an effective incontinence solution, Prevail Underpads are advertised to protect bedding, furniture, and other surfaces from leaks. They feature a waterproof backing and an absorbent inner core meant to lock in fluids. While we appreciate the concept of disposable protection for easy cleanup, we found several issues that make these underpads less appealing.
Why We’re Disappointed
- Uneven Absorbency: Despite claims of high absorbency, we encountered instances of leakage when the pad was used overnight or by individuals with moderate to heavy incontinence. The core didn’t always lock in fluids effectively.
- Potential for Skin Irritation: Some of our testers reported that the surface felt slightly abrasive after several hours of use. This may be a concern for those with sensitive or fragile skin.
- Flimsy Construction: While the pads are supposed to maintain their shape, we noticed tearing along the edges in a few cases. This not only hinders their effectiveness but also makes them more difficult to dispose of without making a mess.
Other Observations
- Size & Coverage: Prevail Underpads do come in various sizes, which is convenient for different seating or bedding needs. However, even larger-sized pads sometimes shift around unless carefully secured, reducing overall coverage.
- Environmental Concerns: Like most disposable products, these underpads contribute to household waste. If you are eco-conscious, you may find the single-use nature to be problematic.
- Cost vs. Value: Although the price can be moderate depending on where you purchase them, the performance issues may not justify the ongoing expense — especially if frequent replacements are needed due to leaks.
Real-World Feedback
Some seniors and caregivers who tested these underpads offered the following opinions:
- “I had to double up on pads at night because I wasn’t confident one alone would contain the moisture.”
- “They were okay for a few hours, but I wouldn’t rely on them for overnight use.”
- “I noticed some redness on my skin after waking up, but I’m not sure if it was the pad’s material or just prolonged contact.”
All Seniors Foundation’s Offer
Despite our reservations, All Seniors Foundation is still offering Prevail Underpads free to eligible seniors who wish to try them. We believe individuals should have access to various products in order to decide what works best for their unique situation. However, based on our testing, we advise considering alternative options if you require higher reliability or have sensitive skin.
3-Point Review (1/5 Stars)
- Inconsistent Absorbency: The core doesn’t always effectively lock in fluids, especially overnight.
- Skin Sensitivity Concerns: Some users experienced mild irritation from prolonged contact.
- Lackluster Durability: The pads occasionally tore at the edges, impacting their usefulness.
Overall Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
Final Thoughts
While Prevail Underpads may suffice for short-term or light incontinence needs, our team found them lacking for heavier use or overnight scenarios. If you prioritize a more durable, highly absorbent pad — particularly for extended wear — you might want to explore other brands. That being said, if budget and occasional protection are your main concerns, you can still consider giving these underpads a try, especially since All Seniors Foundation provides them at no cost for those who qualify.
