Incontinence-related odour can be difficult to talk about. If you experience bladder or bowel leakage, you may worry that other people will notice. If you support a family member or someone you care for, you may be unsure how to raise the subject without causing discomfort.
Please remember that odour is not a reflection of someone’s cleanliness or the care they receive. It can occur even when incontinence is managed thoughtfully and consistently. Changes in odour are often related to moisture, bacteria, product fit, hydration or an underlying health concern.
With a gentle hygiene routine, suitable continence products and a few practical changes around the home, odour can often be managed while protecting the person’s comfort, confidence and dignity.
What Causes Incontinence-Related Odours?
Understanding the Causes and Prevention of Odour can make the situation feel easier to manage. Instead of simply trying to cover an odour, it helps to consider where it may be coming from and what could be contributing to it.
Urine and faeces naturally contain substances that can produce odour. The smell may become more noticeable when bacteria begin breaking these substances down, particularly when moisture remains against the skin, clothing or furnishings.
Other contributing factors may include:
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A continence product becoming saturated
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Leakage caused by an incorrect fit or insufficient absorbency
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Concentrated urine resulting from inadequate fluid intake
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Clothing, bedding or reusable products retaining moisture
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Constipation or changes in bowel habits
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Certain foods, medicines or supplements
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Urinary tract infections or other health conditions
Try to notice when and where the odour occurs. Odour around the edges of an absorbent product, for example, may suggest that it is leaking or not fitting correctly. A sudden change in the smell of urine or faeces may have a different cause and should not be ignored, particularly if other symptoms are present.
Practical Hygiene Tips for Managing Incontinence-Related Odours
Supportive Personal Hygiene Practices can help manage odour and protect the skin. However, good hygiene does not mean washing the skin repeatedly or using strong products. Excessive cleansing can make the skin dry, irritated and more vulnerable to damage.
The goal is to cleanse gently, dry the skin carefully and protect it from ongoing moisture. Everyone’s needs are different, so routines should take account of the person’s mobility, skin condition, sensory needs and personal preferences.
Change Incontinence Products Regularly
Absorbent products should be checked and changed according to the person’s pattern of leakage and the product instructions. Changing a product before it becomes saturated helps reduce moisture against the skin and may prevent leaks and odour.
ABENA Pants L3, Green, 2400mL,
SKU: SA1000021327
ABENA's continence management range features a high performance core with Top-Dry Technology meaning they absorb urine and faeces leaving the top dry against the skin.
Products should be changed promptly following a bowel movement. More frequent checks may also be helpful during hot weather, overnight or if the person’s usual bladder or bowel routine changes.
If you assist someone with changing, approach the process calmly and respectfully. Explain what you are doing, protect their privacy and involve them in decisions wherever possible. A regular routine can make changes feel more predictable and less intrusive.
Choosing suitable Incontinence Aids can also support more comfortable and effective everyday management.
Keep Skin Clean, Dry and Protected
Skin Care and Protection are important for both comfort and odour management. When urine or faeces remains against the skin, it can weaken the skin’s natural barrier and contribute to incontinence-associated dermatitis. This may appear as redness, soreness, swelling, itching or broken skin.
Following leakage or a product change:
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Clean the area gently with warm water and a mild, pH-balanced cleanser or a cleansing product designed for continence care.
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Remove urine or faeces carefully without scrubbing the skin.
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Pat the area dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing it.
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Apply a suitable skin protectant when recommended.
Avoid harsh soaps and heavily fragranced products, as they may irritate sensitive skin. A suitable barrier cream can create a protective layer between the skin and moisture. Use it according to the directions, as applying too much may affect the absorbency of some continence products.
ABENA Skincare Ointment,
150mL, SKU: ABE6659
ABENA's Skincare Ointment has a unique combination of 41% lipids, dimethicone, and allantoin and is suitable for very dry or irritated skin, making this a great product to protect the skin.
Seek professional advice if the skin remains red or sore, develops open areas or appears to be getting worse. Skin damage should be addressed early rather than accepted as an unavoidable part of incontinence.
Wear Breathable, Comfortable Clothing
Loose, breathable clothing can improve airflow and reduce the build-up of heat and moisture. Clothing should feel comfortable and be easy to remove, particularly when mobility or dexterity is limited.
Very tight clothing can press against an absorbent product and affect its fit. It may also create gaps that allow leakage. Check that underwear and clothing keep the product secure without causing pressure, rubbing or discomfort.
Wash Clothing and Reusable Products Properly
Consistent Clothing and Laundry Management can help prevent odours from remaining in fabrics. Wash soiled clothing, bedding and reusable products as soon as it is practical to do so.
Remove any solid waste before washing and follow the care instructions for each item. If something cannot be washed immediately, place it in a designated sealed container or laundry bag until it can be cleaned.
Reusable continence products may have specific instructions regarding washing temperature, detergent, bleach and fabric softener. Following these instructions helps protect their absorbency and waterproof layers.
Using extra detergent does not necessarily remove more odour. Detergent residue can remain in the fabric and may irritate sensitive skin. Make sure clothing and reusable products are completely dry before they are reused or stored.
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
It can be tempting to drink less in the hope of reducing leakage. However, this can make urine more concentrated, which may make its odour stronger. Inadequate fluid intake may also irritate the bladder or contribute to constipation.
Water is generally the best option for staying hydrated. Individual fluid needs vary, particularly for people with certain health conditions or medications. Anyone who has been advised to restrict fluids should continue following the guidance of their healthcare professional.
Support Bladder and Bowel Health
Healthy bladder and bowel habits may make incontinence easier to manage. Constipation can place additional pressure on the bladder and may contribute to both bladder and bowel leakage.
Depending on the person’s needs and abilities, helpful habits may include:
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Drinking an appropriate amount of fluid
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Eating enough fibre
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Staying physically active where possible
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Allowing enough time to use the toilet
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Following a comfortable toileting routine
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Seeking advice about persistent constipation or diarrhoea
A continence assessment may help identify what is contributing to leakage and provide strategies suited to the person’s health, routine and support needs.
Be Aware of Foods and Drinks That May Affect Urine Odour
Some foods, drinks, medicines and vitamin supplements can temporarily change the smell or colour of urine. This does not automatically mean there is a health problem.
If you notice a pattern, consider keeping a brief record of meals, drinks, medicines and symptoms. Avoid removing important foods without professional advice, particularly if the person has dysphagia, disability-related nutritional needs or a prescribed diet.
Managing Odours in the Home Environment
Thoughtful Home Environment Odour Management can help make living areas feel fresher and more comfortable. The most effective approach is usually to remove the source of an odour rather than trying to cover it with fragrance.
You may find it helpful to:
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Clean spills and accidents as soon as possible.
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Wash soiled bedding, towels and reusable products regularly.
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Use washable or disposable mattress, chair and furniture protectors.
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Place used disposable products in sealed disposal bags.
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Empty and clean disposal bins regularly.
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Allow fresh air to circulate where practical.
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Check frequently used areas for unnoticed leaks or damp items.
Use a cleaning product that is suitable for the affected surface and allow the area to dry fully. Strong air fresheners may be uncomfortable for people with asthma, sensory sensitivities or fragrance intolerance. Prompt cleaning and good ventilation are generally more helpful than masking the odour.
Choosing Odour Control Products and Technologies
Odour Control Products and Technologies can support daily care by containing leakage, drawing fluid away from the skin and reducing moisture. Some absorbent products also include materials designed to help manage odour within their core.
When selecting a product, consider:
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Whether it is needed for urinary, faecal or combined incontinence
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The amount and usual timing of leakage
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The required level of absorbency
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Body shape and product fit
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Daytime and overnight needs
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Mobility and dexterity
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Skin sensitivity
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The assistance available
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The person’s comfort and preferences
A more absorbent product is not always a better choice. If a product is too large or does not fit correctly, it may leave gaps and increase the risk of leakage. Products should also be changed when needed rather than being left in place until they reach their full capacity.
ABENA Soft Classic Underlay,
60x60cm, SKU: SA1999914399
Disposal bags, skin cleansers, mattress and chair protectors, reusable bedding protection and odour-neutralising products may also be useful. These products should support regular changes and gentle hygiene, rather than replacing them.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consulting Healthcare Professionals is important when an odour appears suddenly, continues despite regular care or occurs alongside other symptoms. A change in smell does not always indicate an infection, but it can be a useful sign that something has changed.
Seek professional advice if you notice:
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A persistent or unexplained change in urine or stool odour
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Odour that continues despite an appropriate hygiene and product routine
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Pain or burning when urinating
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Increased urinary frequency or urgency
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Fever, vomiting, lower abdominal pain or back pain
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Blood in the urine or stool
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New or increasing leakage
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Ongoing constipation or diarrhoea
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Red, swollen, painful or broken skin
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A change in alertness, behaviour or general wellbeing
A GP, pharmacist, continence nurse or another qualified healthcare professional can help identify possible causes and recommend appropriate care. Asking for help is not a sign that you have done something wrong. It is simply another way to protect the person’s health and comfort.
Conclusion
Incontinence-related odour can feel like a sensitive concern, but you do not need to feel ashamed or manage it alone. It is not a measure of personal cleanliness or the quality of someone’s care.
Regular product changes, gentle cleansing, skin protection, appropriate hydration and correctly fitted products can all help. Prompt laundry and household cleaning can also create a more comfortable home environment.
Most importantly, care should always protect the person’s privacy, choices and dignity. If an odour changes unexpectedly, persists despite regular care or occurs alongside other symptoms, speak with a healthcare professional.
Sources
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Continence Health Australia. Continence Products. https://www.continence.org.au
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Continence Health Australia. People with Disability. https://www.continence.org.au
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Better Health Channel. Incontinence Prevention Tips. Victorian Government. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
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Better Health Channel. Incontinence: Tips for Carers. Victorian Government. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
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Healthdirect Australia. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). https://www.healthdirect.gov.au
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Healthdirect Australia. Urine Colour Chart. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au
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Queensland Health. Preventing Pressure Injuries at Home. https://www.health.qld.gov.au
This information is general in nature and does not replace individual advice from a qualified healthcare professional.