What really makes modern incontinence products “absorbent”

Everyone knows: a good incontinence product must absorb reliably.

But only few people know what actually makes this possible on the inside – and why the quality of different incontinence products varies so much.


The key component is called Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) – the heart of every high-quality absorbent core.


🔬 In laboratory conditions, SAP can absorb up to 300 times their own weight in pure water. Under real-life conditions, such as saline liquids like urine, the capacity is lower – but still impressively high.


🔬 Chemically, SAP usually consist of sodium polyacrylate: 

long polymer chains that are “coiled up” when dry.

When liquid is absorbed, they unfold, form a three-dimensional gel, and bind the fluid.


🔬 The degree of cross-linking of the polymer structure determines its properties:

• Less cross-linking → higher absorption capacity, softer gel

• More cross-linking → more stable gel, better performance under pressure (e.g. when sitting or lying)


🔬 Crucial but often underestimated: the amount and quality of SAP used.

Too little SAP → reduced performance.

Optimally used SAP → better dryness, skin protection, and leakage security.


High-quality manufacturers therefore combine modern polymers with precise dosing and distribution, made possible by new, highly efficient production facilities.

The result: consistently high quality, without cutting corners on materials.


Why does this matter?


Because the absorbent core is invisible – yet it largely determines how dry, safe, and comfortable a product performs in everyday life.


That’s exactly why we offer the complete Attends range – a brand with over 45 years of experience in developing reliable incontinence solutions.


What really makes modern incontinence products “absorbent”
Konstantin Satushev December 23, 2025
Share this post
Sign in to leave a comment
💧 Dry mouth – What helps when saliva is missing?