Report Overview

The global adult diapers market was pegged at US$ 16.20 billion in 2021 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 6.70% during the forecast period. 

Market Fundamentals 

Adult diapers are absorbent garments worn for management of bladder problems or imbalance in bowel movements. People with health issues such as fecal or urinary intolerance, individuals that are wheelchairs-bound, and individuals suffering from dementia are the major consumers of adult diapers. Adult diapers are also used in in-patient setting among patients prescribed complete bed rest; even astronauts are found to be a prominent group of consumers for adult diapers. Diapers are made up of breathable and highly absorbent fibers and polymers, which are easy on the skin and last for almost five to twelve hours. The disposable diapers are made up of polypropylene nonwoven which is the top layer, both hydrophobic and hydrophilic, and acts as a leak guard. The diaper is filled with an absorbent substance called sodium polyacrylate. This absorbent material can almost absorb almost 200 to 300 times the weight of the liquid. 

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Market Dynamics

The global adult diapers market is mainly driven by an increased number of the adult population suffering from severe incontinence, increased awareness about hygiene, and an increased number of patients with mobility issues who are recommended to use adult diapers. In addition, the rapid increase in technological advancements resulting in smart diapers with overflow sensors, etc. can be a good opportunity for market growth. 

Despite a number of positive trends, lack of awareness and knowledge in developing countries, also the stigma and negative consequences associated with adult diapers can hamper the growth of this market. 

Market Ecosystem

The global adult diapers market has been analyzed from four perspectives: product type, end-user, distribution channel, and region. 

Adult Diapers Market By Product Type

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Based on product type the global adult diapers market is grouped into pad type, pull-type, and tape-on diapers. The pull-type or pant type has the highest stake in the market. Owing to factors such as this type of diapers provides better comfort than other counterparts as it resembles a daily undergarment and has a soft and stretchy waistband. Also, pant-type diapers are available in both disposable and reusable formats. Other segments such as pad type diapers are also expected to grow in the forecast period as it decreases the bulkiness which is observed in pant-type diapers, reduces odor and microbial contaminations. Tape-on diapers or taped diapers, on the other hand, are also expected to grow in popularity due to the availability of different diapers based on daytime and night-time. Daytime diapers are thinner because of lighter incontinence, while bedtime diapers are made for absorbing heavy incontinence. 

Adult Diapers Market By End User 

Based on end-user, the global adult diapers market is classified into men and women. The women segment has dominated the market. Owing to factors such as increasing rate of childbirth resulting in pre- and post-complications. Due to lack of efficient healthcare infrastructure and skilled personnel, the incidence of childbirth associated complications such as fistula due to necrosis of tissues is high low-income countries. Females suffer from bladder issues, because of the weakening of pelvic muscles in addition. In addition, according to the Urology Care Foundation, the percentage of adults who have bladder control issues is 80% females. Also, after menopause, most women suffer incontinence due to thinning of genital tissues. Sometimes when women experience heavy incontinence, they are provided with diapers that have extra booster pads, called doublers and stuffers.

Adult Diapers Market By Distribution Channel 

In terms of distribution channels, the global adult diaper market is characterized by online and offline modes. Among these, the online channel is dominating because of increased digitalization and penetration of many e-commerce companies such as Amazon and e-Bay. These portals offer a wide range of product varieties with different brands and attractive prices. Hence, as the trend of e-commerce is increasing steadily, the online channel is going to show lucrative growth in the forecast period. The offline or retail stores can also show a significant rise in the forecast period since the products are immediately available, customers also get in-person for product selection, and retail channels also have easy availability of specialty prescription products.

Adult Diapers Market By Region

Based on region, the global adult diapers market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World. Europe has the highest stake in the global adult diapers market. Europe market is characterized by rapidly growing geriatric population and high incidence of incontinence. The demand for adult diapers is booming in the European market as nearly one-fifth of the total population is over 65 years old. This proportion is primarily owed to low death rates because of advanced medical facilities. Europe's leading adult diaper markets are concentrated in Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy. After Europe, Asia Pacific is the second largest stakeholder in the global adult diapers market. In Asia, Japan is one of the fastest growing markets for adult diapers in Asia. Because of factors such as a large geriatric population is affected with incontinence, and rapid development of healthcare sector. 

Competitive Landscape

Some of the prominent players operating in the adult diapers market are 

• Procter & Gamble Co. 
• Essity AB 
• Ontex Group NV 
• Paul Hartmann AG 
• TZMO Group SA 
• DSG International Ltd. 
• Kimberly Clark Corporation 
• Unique Wellness Pvt. Ltd 
• Principle Business Enterprises Inc. 
• First Quality Enterprises Inc.
• Daio Paper Corporation 
• Nippon Paper Industries Co. Ltd. 
• Unicharm Corporation
• Medline Industries Inc. among others.

Strategic Developments

• In February 2021, NorthShore Care Supply, the premier brand of great absorbent adult diapers and continence supplies, announced its arrival in Canada market. To increase revenue, the company is building a manufacturing unit in Canada and working with salesforce like Health Wick Canada and Age Comfort.
• In January 2021, First Quality introduced ‘Incognito’ a 3-in-1 feminine napkin with multifluid technology to protect against urinary leaks, menstrual leaks, and daily discharges. They have a highly absorbent core that holds more moisture than a typical feminine hygiene pad which also reduces odor.

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