Pull-Ons vs Slips: How to Choose the Right Continence Product

Oct 3, 2026 ·

The short answer: Pull-ons go on and off like regular underwear, so they usually suit people who are mobile and manage the toilet on their own. Slips (also called all-in-ones or tab-style briefs) wrap around the body and fasten with tabs at the sides, so they usually suit people who find it hard to stand, need help with changes, or need higher absorbency. The best choice depends on mobility, how much protection is needed, and who does the changing.

What are pull-ons?

Pull-ons, also called pull-ups or protective underwear, are disposable pants with an absorbent core built in. You step into them and pull them up, just like regular underwear. Many styles also have tear-away sides, so they can be removed without taking off shoes or trousers.

Pull-ons are often a good fit for people who:

•        can stand and walk, even with a little support

•        use the toilet on their own and want to pull their underwear up and down as usual

•        want protection that looks and feels close to everyday underwear

•        have moderate to heavy bladder leaks

Because they feel familiar, pull-ons can help people feel more like themselves while managing leaks.

What are slips?

Slips, also called all-in-ones, wrap-arounds or tab-style briefs, are an absorbent brief that opens out flat. They are placed under the body and fastened at the sides with resealable tabs. Continence Health Australia notes that all-in-ones can be helpful for people who find it hard to stand or walk.

Slips are often a good fit for people who:

•        have limited mobility, or spend much of the day sitting or lying down

•        need help from another person to change

•        need to be changed in bed or in a chair

•        have heavy to very heavy leaks, or want extra security overnight

The tabs can be adjusted, so the fit can be tightened or loosened at each change without taking the whole product off.

Pull-ons vs slips: side by side

Both styles manage bladder and bowel leaks. The main differences are how they go on and who they suit best.

How to choose: five questions to ask

There is no single "better" option. The right one is the product that suits the person, their body and their daily routine. These questions can help.

1. Can the person stand and step into underwear?

If yes, pull-ons are usually the simplest choice. If standing is difficult or unsafe, slips are usually easier and safer, because they can be put on while sitting or lying down.

2. Who does the changing?

People who change themselves often prefer pull-ons, because the routine is the same as normal underwear. If someone else helps with changes, slips are often easier, since there is no need to lift legs through leg holes.

3. How much protection is needed?

For moderate to heavy leaks, pull-ons often work well. For heavy to very heavy leaks, or if leaks are getting past a pull-on, a higher absorbency slip may be the better fit.

4. Is it for day, night or both?

Many people use one style for both. Some choose pull-ons during the day for comfort and movement, and switch to slips overnight for extra security and easier changes in bed.

5. What matters most to the person?

Comfort, independence and dignity all count. A product that feels more like underwear can make a real difference to confidence, so ask the person wearing it what they prefer.

Still unsure? Continence Health Australia suggests trying samples before buying in bulk. A nurse continence specialist can also help you choose.

Getting the fit right

The right style only works if the size is right. A product that is too big can gap at the legs and leak, even if it has plenty of absorbency. One that is too small can feel tight and uncomfortable.

How to measure: Measure around the waist or hips, whichever is larger, then check the size chart for that product. Pull-ons and slips can have different size ranges, so check each one separately.

Signs the fit isn't right:

•        leaks around the leg openings

•        gaps between the product and the skin

•        red marks or pinching at the waist or legs

•        the product sagging or slipping down when full

If you notice any of these, try a different size before assuming the product is not absorbent enough.

Pull-ons or slips from Caringly

Caringly was founded by healthcare professionals, and we make both styles so you can choose what suits your routine.

Caringly Supreme Pull-Ons are for moderate to heavy urinary incontinence and everyday bowel incontinence. They offer up to 2,200mL tested absorbency* with our ComfySorb® Advanced Absorbent Core, leak-guard cuffs and a unisex design. From $36.99 for a pack of 14.

Caringly Supreme Slips are for heavy to very heavy urinary incontinence and everyday bowel incontinence. They offer up to 3,100mL tested absorbency* with resealable, repositionable tabs and a wetness indicator, and suit both assisted and independent changes. From $42.99 for a pack of 20.

Every first order of Pull-Ons or Slips is covered by our 60-Day Fit or Return Promise. If the size isn't right, our team will help with a different size, an exchange or a refund. Orders ship in discreet packaging, with free shipping on orders over $49. Caringly is also a registered NDIS provider.

Check the size chart, or contact our team on 1300 002 439 or support@caringly.com.au for help choosing.

*Absorbency results are based on laboratory testing of the XL size. Actual performance may vary depending on fit, fluid type and individual use.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between pull-ups and slips?

Pull-ups (pull-ons) go on like regular underwear and suit people who are mobile and change themselves. Slips wrap around the body and fasten with side tabs, which suits people with limited mobility or who need help with changes.

Are slips more absorbent than pull-ups?

Slips are usually designed for higher absorbency. For example, Caringly Supreme Slips are tested to hold up to 3,100mL, compared with up to 2,200mL for Caringly Supreme Pull-Ons (both based on laboratory testing of the XL size).

Which is better for night time?

It depends on the person. Some people sleep well in a pull-on. Others choose slips overnight for higher absorbency and because they can be changed while lying in bed.

Which is easier for someone helping with changes?

Slips are usually easier when another person helps, because they can be put on and taken off while the wearer is sitting or lying down.

Can I use pull-ons during the day and slips at night?

Yes. Many people use pull-ons for daytime comfort and movement, then switch to slips overnight.

Are pull-ons and slips unisex?

Caringly Pull-Ons and Slips are both designed to be unisex.

Can I buy pull-ons or slips with NDIS funding?

Eligible NDIS participants may be able to use their consumables funding for continence products. Caringly is a registered NDIS provider and accepts self-managed, plan-managed and NDIA-managed orders.

What if I choose the wrong size?

With Caringly's 60-Day Fit or Return Promise, you can contact the team for a different size, an exchange or a refund on your first Pull-Ons or Slips order.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is general in nature and is provided for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional who knows your circumstances. The right continence product depends on individual needs, including the type of incontinence, mobility, skin health and care routine. If you are unsure which product suits you, or if your continence needs change, speak with your GP or a nurse continence specialist. You can also call the free National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66. Caringly does not diagnose or treat any medical condition.

Sources

•        Continence Health Australia. Continence products and aids.

•        Caringly. Caringly Supreme Pull-Ons product page.

•        Caringly. Caringly Supreme Slips product page.