Best Bedpans and Urinals for Elderly

Best Bedpan Overall

YUMSUM Firm Thick Stable PP Bedpan Heavy Duty Smooth Countoured for Bed-Bound Patient (Blue)

YUMSUM Heavy Duty Contoured Bedpan

Best Bariatric Bedpan

Medline Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpans, 80-oz, Graphite (Pack of 4)

Medline Industries Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpan

Best Male Urinal

Reusable Portable Male Comfort Fit Advantage Urinal System with Spill Proof Collection Bag

Advantage Urinal System with Spill Proof Collection Bag

Bedpans are a fact of life for millions of Americans.

Bedpans are the preferred choice for people who can’t get out of bed to use the toilet or bedside commode, and don’t want to wear an adult brief. 

Some seniors are even taking an extra bedpan along in their car nowadays! Because it’s so hard to find a public bathroom during the pandemic, seniors like having a bedpan available for emergencies, or just to avoid potential exposure to germs.

Who Are Bed Pans Best For?

Seniors who are recovering from surgery, or who have medical conditions which confine them to bed for long periods of time, find that having the right bedpan makes a big difference. 

Besides being uncomfortable, an improperly fitted bedpan can contribute to the risk of pressure sores, neuropathy, infection or other complications.

Since seniors confined to bed are already at high risk for these and other issues, finding a comfortable, well-fitting bedpan is essential.

But how do you know which bedpan will be the best fit? The answer is not always clear-cut, and it varies quite a bit from person to person. Today we have recognized the YUMSUM Heavy Duty Contoured Bedpan as our “Best Overall Pick”, because it features a wide range of commonly useful characteristics.

However, what works best for the senior in your life may be different. Below we have outlined some of the considerations you will need to make the best decision based on your senior’s specific needs.

Best Bedpans for Elderly Seniors: Our Top Picks!

1. YUMSUM Heavy Duty Contoured Bedpan

Best Bedpan Overall
YUMSUM Firm Thick Stable PP Bedpan Heavy Duty Smooth Countoured for Bed-Bound Patient (Blue)

YUMSUM Heavy Duty Contoured Bedpan

Hospital quality bed pan with anti-spill design

About: The YUMSUM Heavy Duty Contoured Bedpan is today’s “Best Overall Bedpan Pick” because it combines good strength, durability and quality with a comfortable contour and affordable price.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight yet sturdy
  • Rounded edges for comfort
  • Gently tapered for easy placement
  • Easy to clean
  • Works with or without liners

The YUMSUM is made from lightweight yet sturdy medical grade plastic. It supports up to 220 pounds. 

This bed pan features a smooth, contoured design and rounded edges for a comfortable experience with no sharp edges. Its gentle tapered design promotes easy placement.


This bed pan also features an anti-spill design. It’s easy to clean and works well either with or without liners.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight Capacity: 220 pounds
  • Weight: 13.18 ounces
  • Length: 13.7 inches
  • Width: 10.94 inches
  • Front Height: 3.54 inches
  • Back Height: 1.97 inches
  • Material: Polypropylene plastic

Pros

  • Tapered design for easy placement
  • Anti-spill design

Cons

  • May feel small for larger-framed bodies
  • Two-part construction. Top may separate from base at seam if dropped on a hard floor.
  • No handle

2. Medline Industries Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpan

Best Bariatric Fracture Pan
Medline Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpans, 80-oz, Graphite (Pack of 4)

Medline Industries Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpan

Tapered fracture bariatric bedpan that doesn’t require the user to move too much

About: The Medline Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpan features a thin, tapered design and non-stick surface for easy placement, even under large or immobile individuals. 

Key Features:

  • Thin, tapered design for easy placement
  • Non-stick plastic surface
  • 900 pound weight capacity

This Medline bedpan works well for seniors with limited mobility because you can easily position it without the person having to lift their bottom up or move very much. 

This bedpan supports individuals weighing upto 900 pounds, although its sleek tapered design, non-stick surface, rounded edges, generous width and large content capacity is appreciated by seniors of all sizes.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight Capacity:  900 pounds
  • Weight: 1 pound
  • Length: 18 inches         
  • Width: 15 inches
  • Front Height: 5 inches
  • Back Height: flat
  • Material: Plastic

Pros

  • Width and weight capacity make this bedpan great for larger builds
  • Holds large 1.5 quart capacity

Cons

  • Only available in a pack of 4 (although users tend to agree that it is worth it!)

3. KIKIGOAL Inflatable Bedpan

Best Inflatable Bedpan
KIKIGOAL Bigger Washable Portable Air Inflation Blue Bed Pan Bedridden Elderly Inflatable Stool Bedsore Toilet

KIKIGOAL Inflatable Bedpan

Inflatable bedpan that offers additional cushioning while remaining ultra-portable

About: Many seniors find the KIKIGOAL Inflatable Bedpan to be much more comfortable than the hard plastic or metal alternatives. This can be a godsend for seniors with severe pain issues. When deflated, this inflatable bedpan can easily be carried in a purse, pocket or vehicle’s glove compartment for a portable potty solution in any situation.

Key Features:

  • Easy to inflate and uninflate with included pump
  • Pump comes included
  • Easy to clean and reuse

The KIKIGOAL Inflatable Bedpan’s soft, smooth edges make it more comfortable than traditional bedpans for small and mid-sized seniors. 

The soft, flexible design is especially helpful for seniors suffering from painful conditions, such as fractures or pressure ulcers. Inflate the bed pan only about half-way to keep it flexible and comfortable.

This inflatable-style bed pan has also been used by seniors who need an emergency toilet pan in the car for traffic jams, long road trips or just steering clear of public restrooms during the pandemic. It is small enough to fit nicely into a purse, pocket or glove compartment, making it perfect for travel.

The KIKIGOAL is easy to wipe clean with bathroom cleaner and also works with bedpan liners for easy clean up. 

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight Capacity:  unspecified
  • Weight: 4 ounces
  • Length: 16.5 inches        
  • Width: 12.6 inches
  • Front Height: up to 4 inches when inflated
  • Back Height: up to 4 inches when inflated
  • Material: PVC plastic

Pros

  • Soft and flexible design is helpful for seniors in pain
  • Ultra-portable
  • Pump comes included

Cons

  • May feel a bit small for larger seniors

4. Vakly Deluxe Stackable Contour Bedpan

Best Stackable Bedpan
Bedpan – Smooth Contoured Stackable Bed Pan – Portable and Easy to Clean - for Bed-Bound/Bedridden Patient for Women and Men

Vakly Deluxe Stackable Contour Bedpan

Compact, stackable, and space-saving bedpan

About: Seniors appreciate the comfort of the Vakly Deluxe Contour Bedpan above all else; many find the Vakly Deluxe Contour Bedpan to be the only one they can use without pain. Because it’s stackable, it’s easy to keep a couple on hand without taking up much space.

Key Features:

  • Smooth and comfortable contoured design
  • Stackable for compact storage
  • Easy to clean with household cleaners

The Vakly Deluxe is comfortable to use for many seniors due to its molded contours and smooth edges. However, the Vakly’s bowl is on the shallow side, so it may be best suited to smaller sized individuals. 

The Vakly is made from hospital quality plastic, although it does seem a little on the thin side compared to others in today’s review. Some seniors find that this bedpan needs to be replaced periodically due to cracking, but many feel that the Vakly is worth it because it is inexpensive and so much more comfortable than other models.

This contoured bedpan is made to stack inside one another, so keeping a couple extra on hand doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight Capacity:  unspecified
  • Weight:  3 ounces
  • Length: 15 inches        
  • Width: 12 inches
  • Front Height: 4.5 inches
  • Back Height: 2.5 inches
  • Material: plastic

Pros

  • Contoured and without sharp edges
  • More comfortable than many bedpans
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • May be shallow for larger individuals, which can lead to spills or overflow
  • May need to be replaced periodically

5. PRECISE CANADA Stainless Steel Bed Pan

Best Stainless Steel Bedpan
PRECISE CANADA PC Stainless Steel Bed Pans - Adult: 14' X 11 3/8' Quality Bed Pans Silver

PRECISE CANADA Stainless Steel Bed Pan

Durable stainless steel bedpan

About: This Precise Canada Stainless Steel Bedpan is very durable and many seniors were stricken by its ultra-polished beauty, which, admittedly, is an unusual thing to say about a bedpan.

Key Features:

  • Stainless steel strong
  • Heavy duty
  • Highly polished
  • Comfortable for larger bodies

Seamless design and stainless steel construction ensures this bedpan will withstand prolonged, frequent use. It will not break, even if dropped!

Because it’s fashioned from stainless steel, this Precise Canada bedpan is easy to clean, but may feel cold against bare skin if it isn’t warmed up ahead of time.

This bedpan may feel a bit high for smaller seniors or those who have pain or difficulty lifting their hips.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight Capacity:  not specified
  • Weight: 1.1 pounds
  • Length: 14 inches       
  • Width: 11 3/8 inches
  • Front Height: 4.6 inches
  • Back Height: 4.25 inches
  • Material: Stainless steel

Pros

  • Stainless steel is strong and sturdy
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Stainless steel can be cold to the skin
  • Smaller users may find it too tall for comfort

6. Vakly Bariatric Bedpan

Best Choice for Smaller Bariatrics
Heavy Duty Large Bariatric Bedpan – Wide Smooth Contoured Stackable Bed Pan – Portable and Easy to Clean - for Bed-Bound/Bedridden Patient. for Women and Men

Vakly Bariatric Bedpan

Comfortable bariatric bedpan for small-framed individuals

About: The Vakly Bariatric Bedpan is a sturdy, inexpensive bedpan large enough to accommodate some bariatric sized seniors. It features a gentle taper and non-stick surface for easy placement.

Key Features:

  • Non stick surface for easy maneuvering
  • Gently tapered for easier placement
  • Easy to clean with household products

As far as bariatric bedpans go, the Vakly is on the smaller size. This isn’t to say it’s small — it’s wider and larger than standard bedpans, and it can comfortably accommodate seniors up to 400 pounds or more. However, it’s a bit smaller than is common with other bariatric bed pans.

Pay close attention to the dimensions if an extra-large size is an important feature for your senior loved one. Some seniors felt the Vakly was smaller than they expected. (Then again, other seniors felt it was too large and bulky, so as always, it boils down to what is right for each individual.) 

The depth of this bedpan is roughly the same as other bedpans, which can feel shallow (and easy to spill) to seniors who need a deep bedpan that can hold a large amount of contents. 

Overall, many seniors found the Vakly Bariatric Bedpan to be very comfortable, owing to its smooth contoured shape, gentle taper and non-stick surface.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight Capacity:  unspecified
  • Weight:  9 ounces
  • Length:  15 inches
  • Width: 12 inches
  • Front Height: unspecified
  • Back Height: 2.75 inches
  • Material: Plastic

Pros

  • Non-stick surface and gentle taper for easy placement
  • Inexpensive
  • Latex free

Cons

  • On the smaller side for bariatric-rated bedpans

7. Medpro Fracture Bedpan

Best Fracture Bedpan
MedPro Fracture Easy Clean Portable Bed Pan with Plastic Guard and Built-in Handles for Easier Placement and Removal, Durable and Easy to Clean, Adult

Medpro Fracture Bedpan

Slim and discreet fracture bedpan that requires minimal movement

About: The Medpro Fracture Bedpan features a slim, sleek design to minimize the need for a senior to lift their hips — which is a godsend for those with fractures or other painful conditions. This bedpan also features a built in handle for easy maneuvering and removal without jostling the senior’s body. 

Key Features:

  • Handle for easy removal and maneuvering
  • Easy to clean
  • Designed with spill guard

Despite its mere one inch height, this Medpro fracture pan can hold 600-800 milliliters of urine – as much as an average sized bladder. This should accommodate most small-to-average sized seniors, but those who pass a lot of urine or stool at once might appreciate a deeper pan.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight Capacity:  unspecified
  • Weight:  0.3 pounds
  • Length: 12.7 inches          
  • Width: 9.5 inches
  • Front Height: 1 inch
  • Back Height: flat
  • Material: plastic

Pros

  • Handle and narrow design make this bedpan easy to slide under immobile seniors
  • Budget friendly

Cons

  • May feel small to larger seniors

Bedpan Accessories and Alternatives

1. Carebag Bedpan Liners

Best Bedpan Liner
The Original Carebag Bedpan Liner with Super Absorbent Pad, 20 Count – Medical Grade, Fits Any Standard Bedside Commode Bucket – 20 Disposable Commode Liners for an Adult Commode Chair

Carebag Bedpan Liners

Absorbent bedpan liners that make bedpan clean-up easy

About: These Carebag Bedpan Liners make bedpan clean up a breeze. They contain ultra-absorbent pads which promptly soak up fluids to prevent messes and contain odors. When finished, tie it up like a garbage bag to seal and discard. You’re left with a clean bedpan with no mess or fuss!

Key Features:

  • Fits any standard bedpan or bedside commode
  • Easy to use
  • Pre-equipped with liners to wick and contain liquid 
  • Medical grade materials contain messes, odors and germs
  • Treated plastic is better for the environment than traditional bags

Originally designed for hospitals, these Carebags are manufactured to the highest of standards. The ultra-absorbent pads can wick up to 16 ounces of liquid in seconds, and transform it into a gel form. This means you won’t have to deal with any spills, splashes, messes, odors or germs. 

When finished, use the drawstrings to tie the Carebag up like a garbage sack and discard. There is no need to clean the bedpan itself.

These bedpan liners can help absorb overflow or splashes from shallower pans that might be necessary if a senior isn’t able to use a deeper bedpan due to pain or other issues. They can also help spare embarrassment for the senior who feels uncomfortable with someone cleaning out their bedpan. 

The plastic in the Carebags is treated with a unique additive to make the plastic degrade more quickly than traditional plastic bags (although, not until after it’s been discarded, of course). This reduces its impact on landfills, which is an important consideration for many environmentally conscious seniors.

Technical Specifications:

  • Length:  7.87 inches        
  • Width: 4.53 inches
  • Material:  LDPE Plastic Liner with OB5 additive

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Contains odors, messes and germs
  • Treated plastic for reduced environmental impact

Cons

  • They can be somewhat spendy per each

Best Male Urinals

male urinal

Urinals are a popular option for men for a number of different reasons, but they aren’t right for every senior’s situation.

In order to use a urinal, a man should be able to recognize when he needs to urinate, so the urinal can be moved into place as needed.

Urinals should not be kept in place over the penis when not in use, unless specifically designed to do so, because it can cause skin sores in the perineal area. It also creates a high risk for spilling. 

When seniors get up to the bathroom several times during the night it can interfere with their sleep. A senior may even seek out sleep remedies without realizing that what’s upsetting their sleep cycle is the frequent trips to the bathroom!

When an elderly senior needs help from a spouse or caregiver to get to the toilet several times throughout the night, it can interfere with everyone’s sleep!

When seniors awaken during the night, they can be groggy or unsteady. Walking in this state, or rushing to get to the toilet in time, can put seniors at a higher risk for falling. 

People who travel by car during the pandemic are discovering that finding a public restroom when you need one is not necessarily an easy feat. Add to that the desire to minimize germ exposure, and it’s easy to see why so many men now opt to keep a urinal in the car, just in case.

1. JJ Care Urinals for Men

Best Budget Urinal
JJ CARE Portable Urinals for Men Spill Proof - Plastic Urine Bottles for Men - Car Travel Pee Bottle Male Urinal for Seniors

JJ Care Urinals for Men

Budget-friendly men’s urinal with sturdy, wide base

About: JJ Care Urinals provide a convenient place for men to pass urine when it’s tough to get to the  toilet. The leak-resistant lid, sturdy angled design and wide base reduce any chance of spills or messes.

Key Features:

  • Snap-on removable lid 
  • Easy-grip handle
  • Easy to clean

JJ Care uses a thick, high quality plastic and careful inspection process to ensure each urinal meets their quality standards. They back each bottle with a guarantee that the seams won’t leak.

The easy-grip handle and snap-on lid are easy to use, even with arthritic hands. The opening is smooth and wide for comfort.

The translucent plastic means it is easy to see how full this urinal is at a glance — much better than forgetting it is already half full when you grab it from the bedside table! Marked measurements enable seniors to track their fluid output, if needed for medical reasons. 

This listing is sold as a pack of four, which is helpful for seniors who want to keep a second one in the car, or in multiple locations around the house. They are available as singles or smaller packs, but they are especially economical when purchased as a four pack. Many seniors find that it really comes in handy to have multiple urinals available, especially when they are in a hurry to find one!

Technical Specifications

  • Length: 9.5 inches         
  • Base Width: 4.2 inches
  • Opening Diameter: 2.5 inches
  • Material: Plastic

Pros

  • Snap-on lid is easy to use and prevents spills
  • Durable, quality craftsmanship
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • After they are used, they may become full or more prone to spilling — at least until it’s emptied — which could mean having to get up during the night to empty it. (Although this could be remedied by having multiple available at the bedside.) 

2. Advantage Urinal System with Spill Proof Collection Bag

Best No-Spill Urinal System
Reusable Portable Male Comfort Fit Advantage Urinal System with Spill Proof Collection Bag

Advantage Urinal System with Collection Bag

Male portable urinal with tube and connecting collection bag

About: The Advantage Urinal System is an effective solution for men who can’t ‒ or would rather not ‒ get out of bed to urinate. As fluid enters the urinal, it quickly drains via connected tubing into a collection bag that prevents spills and contains odors.

Key Features:

  • Collection bag is thick, rip-resistant, durable, reusable and replaceable
  • Anti-reflux valve prevent spills and odors
  • Fast draining, kink resistant tubing 
  • Unique padded rim for comfort
  • Bed hanger included

This Advantage Urinal System is especially good for minimizing the need for men to get up to use the bathroom. This can reduce their risk of falling and can greatly improve sleep — both their own, and that of their spouse or caregiver! 

The Advantage can also be convenient to take along for travel, reducing the need to stop the car to use the restroom.

The Advantage System includes fast draining, kink-resistant tubing, so the urinal efficiently empties and remains ready to use throughout the night. These features, along with the anti-reflux valve at the top of the tube, also contain odors and ensure that the collection bag will not spill.

The Advantage features a newly redesigned extra-durable collection bag which can be reused for several months. Be sure to follow the simple cleaning procedure each day after emptying it. When the time comes, the bag can be replaced. There is no need to replace the entire system, which saves money.

This urinal system is intended for use by men who recognize when they need to urinate. It should be moved into place when needed, and set aside when finished. It should not be left in place when not in use. It isn’t intended for men who leak urine constantly, or who don’t know when they need to urinate.

Technical Specifications:

  • Fluid Capacity: 2 liters  
  • Tube Length: 36 inches          

Pros

  • Bag is reusable for several months, and replaceable when needed
  • Prevents spills and odors
  • Comfort foam opening
  • One-size-fits-all urinal

Cons

  • Designed to be moved into place for use, then set aside. Not intended to keep in place over the penis for prolonged periods.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Bedpan

Types of Bedpans

Bedpans were first invented hundreds of years ago, and while their basic design hasn’t changed much since then, there are some notable variations.

Regular Bedpans

Regular bedpans are somewhat oval in shape, similar to a toilet seat over a shallow toilet bowl. They are designed to be used while sitting or lying in bed to catch urine or feces when a person can’t get to the toilet. 

Fracture Bedpans

Fracture pans are smaller than regular bedpans. They are shallower, and usually more narrow, and they taper to a flat end. These features make them easier to place under an individual who cannot move their hips due to a fracture. 

Fracture bedpans also usually have a handle, that allows a caregiver to more easily slide the bedpan in and out from under the elderly user.

Fracture pans are also useful for other painful conditions in the midsection, such as pressure sores.

fracture bed pan

Bariatric Bedpans

Bariatric bedpans are designed for use by individuals with a very high weight. These bedpans support a lot of weight and are often larger, wider than their counterparts. They usually can handle a larger content capacity. Sometimes bariatric bedpans feature a taper for easier placement under a bariatric individual who may have trouble maneuvering in bed.

Shape

Many bedpans have a tapered shape, which makes it easy to slip into and out of position. Tapers are commonly seen in fracture pans and many bariatric pans, since the senior may be unable to lift their hips or participate in placement. 

Some bedpans are shaped almost like a dustpan, with a nice wide area to catch all the urine or stool. This enables a senior with a larger body to use the bedpan without a mess. 

Some bedpans have a “shelf” that contains contents as it’s carried off to be emptied. While, primarily a plus, sometimes this shelf can be uncomfortable against some seniors’ skin.

Watch for any signs of redness or discomfort, and if noted, select a different bedpan to prevent potentially severe skin breakdown or sores from developing.

Patient Mobility

If the senior can’t help move about in bed, a shallower bedpan can be easier to maneuver in and out of place.

However, shallow bedpans can sometimes present problems with holding capacity. If this is the case, use a bedpan liner, or place an incontinent bed pad under the person and pan, to absorb any overflow. 

Adding talcum powder (if there are no open wounds) or using a bedpan with a non-stick surface can make a bigger bedpan easier to place for individuals with low mobility.

Material

The bedpan’s material matters. Most reusable bedpans are made of either stainless steel or plastic. There are also disposable bedpans on the market made from grey paper pulp.

stainless steel vs plastic bedpan

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is very strong and it is easy to clean. It is also less likely than plastic to have sharp seams or edges to contend with. Its main drawbacks are that it is more expensive than plastic, and that it tends to feel cold to the skin.

However, filling a steel bedpan with hot water before use (and then dumping it out and drying it off), can make a bedpan nice and warm.

Plastic

Plastic bedpans tend to be less expensive — and less chilly — than their steel counterparts. Plastic comes in a range of strength and durability. Some cracks and breaks easily, while others are extremely tough. 

Look for designations such as “medical/hospital grade” or “autoclavable” to identify very durable grades of plastic. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and PP (polycarbonate) are two types of medical grade plastic commonly used for bedpans.

Comfort

Comfort can mean different things to different people. Generally, bedpans with softer, rounded edges are more comfortable than those with hard, sharp seams. Stainless steel can feel cold and uncomfortable to many seniors — although those who tend to feel warm may find the cool steel against their skin refreshing.

Generally a smaller bedpan is more comfortable than a taller one, but what it really comes down to is the shape of the pan, and the shape of the individual’s body.

Most individuals who have experience with bedpans recommend trying out a few different styles or designs to find the most comfortable fit. Bedpans are inexpensive enough that this is feasible for most people, and seniors in the know say it is well worth it.

Size

There is no one way to decide which is the best size bedpan for an individual, but there are a few factors that contribute to this important choice. 

Smaller BedpansLarger Bedpans
Smaller bodiesPeople with fractures, pressure sores or painful conditionsSmaller urine/stool outputLarger bodies (check weight capacity or opt for a bariatric model)Little or no pain with movementLarger urine/stool output
A very generalized guide as to whether to choose a smaller or larger bedpan. 

First and foremost, pay attention to the weight capacity. Some bedpans may not list a specific weight capacity, but if it’s designated as “bariatric” it should be able to support at least 300 pounds. 

Larger bodies usually appreciate larger bedpans. Larger bedpans may feel bulky or very uncomfortable under smaller bodies, or those with painful conditions.

Fracture pans are smaller so that the person doesn’t have to move as much to get on it. 

Consider the amount of urine and stool that the person generally passes at once. Large capacities (which, unsurprisingly, tend to coincide with larger pans) are important for people who pass a lot, to prevent messy overflow.

Bedpans come in a variety of widths. Some find a wider bedpan is easier to use without a mess. Bariatric fracture pans can sometimes offer a solution that is wide, not too bulky and has a good content capacity. 

Because there are so many variables, finding the perfect bedpan for an individual isn’t a clear-cut process. There are many bedpans that can work for an individual in a pinch, but to find one that is comfortable is another challenge altogether. 

Ease of Cleaning

Easy cleaning is a must for bedpans. Not only is convenience a factor, if a bedpan isn’t cleaned adequately it can harbor germs and contribute to a risk of infections

Reusable bedpans are generally made from materials that can be cleaned with household cleaners. However, their shape can vary quite a bit, and some may have areas that can be harder to clean

Before buying a bedpan, give some thought as to what clean up will look like. A bedpan with accessible areas that are easy to wipe out with a cloth will tend to be less work and more hygienic than one with tight spaces.

A thin layer of toilet tissue, water or vegetable oil in the bedpan before use can make clean up easier afterward.

Frequency of Use

How often will the senior need to use the bedpan? Is this their only option for toileting, or will they use it only at night, or for a short duration while recovering from surgery?

senior recovering from surgery or illness

Bedpans come in a variety of durabilities, and some crack or break after a while, especially with frequent use. Stronger bedpans may be more expensive, but are worth the cost if it means replacing less frequently. 

Need for Assistance

An important consideration when choosing a bedpan is how much assistance the senior will need to use the bedpan. Can they lift their hips, or roll themselves to their side while the caregiver places the pan? Do they have a bed trapeze that allows them to maneuver a bit? Or are they unable to help at all? 

Handles help a caregiver place, maneuver and remove a pan from beneath a senior who can help only minimally, or not at all. 

caregiver assistance

If the senior can lift their hips and participate more in getting settled on the bedpan, a deeper pan might be an option, which can be important if they pass a lot of urine or stool at once. If they can’t participate much in terms of mobility, a smaller, shorter pan is usually easier to place.

Features to Look For in a Bed Pan

A few key features to consider when choosing a bedpan are discussed below.

Non-Stick Surface

Some bedpans feature a non-stick surface, which can help them be easier to place. This is especially useful for people who have a hard time helping with placement, such as bariatric seniors, those with fractures, or a severely limited ability to move.

Using a thin layer of talcum powder on the bedpan can also help reduce friction, but don’t use it if the senior has any wounds, cuts or open areas on their skin.

Lid

Some bedpans feature a lid, which can be helpful for keeping in odors, as well as splashes and spills when carrying it to the toilet. Some other bedpans are designed to contain spills without a lid. It can be nice to not have to fuss with or keep track of a lid. 

Handle

Handles can, in some cases, make it easier to carry an empty bedpan. However, the main purpose of a handle on a bedpan is to make it easier for a caregiver to place, maneuver or remove it from underneath someone without limited ability to help. 

Anti-Spill

It is a good idea to invest in a bedpan with an anti-spill feature. There are many different ways to design a bedpan to prevent spills. An overhanging lip is one popular option. Other bedpans feature a “shelf” to hold the contents safe from spills. 

Regardless of the design, if a bedpan is too small to do a big job, there will be spills. Take care to purchase a bedpan that is both wide enough and deep enough to work for the individual. If that isn’t possible, for example because the senior is too painful on a larger pan, use a bedpan liner or incontinence bed pad to absorb spills or splashes.

Compatible with Liners

Most bedpan liners are designed to accommodate most bedpans. If you plan to use them together, double check their compatibility ahead of time to save yourself money and a mess.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bedpans

What is a bariatric bedpan?

A bariatric bedpan is one that is designed to support the extra weight and/or size of a person who is considered “severely obese” — a medical diagnosis which is based on a person’s weight and height. Generally speaking, anyone over 300 pounds or so should opt for a bariatric bedpan.

Beyond the extra weight capacity, bariatric bedpans are typically larger and wider than their alternatives, which translate to a more comfortable experience. They tend to hold more contents, which can reduce the chance of messy spills or overflow. Bariatric bedpans also tend to include features such as handles, a tapered shape and non-stick surface, which make it easier to maneuver the pan into place.

What is the difference between a fracture pan and a bedpan?

Fracture pans are shallow, narrow and taper to a flat end. These features make it more comfortable and easier to place under a senior who has fractures, pressure ulcers or other painful conditions, particularly near their midsection. The senior doesn’t have to lift their hips or roll onto their side like they would for a regular bedpan. 

Due to their smaller size, fracture pans may not catch or hold as much as a larger alternative. Use a bedpan liner, or place an incontinence bed pad underneath the bedpan, to minimize messes from spills or overflow. 

Can you poop in a bedpan?

Yes, bedpans are designed for people to urinate (pee) or defecate (poop) into. 

Is it okay to leave a bedpan under someone who is incontinent for an extended time?

Bedpans should NOT be left underneath a senior when they are not actively being used. This creates a great risk of developing problems including sores, pressure ulcers or neuropathy. These conditions can be very painful and debilitating. Instead, use a product such as a brief or pad for longer periods or to catch episodes of incontinence. 

What is an autoclavable bedpan?

An autoclave, or steam sterilizer, is a medical device made for decontaminating certain medical equipment, including bedpans. It uses very high heat and pressure to accomplish this. It is a very expensive piece of equipment, made for use in a hospital or laboratory. 

While some bedpans denote that they are autoclavable, it isn’t a feature that most seniors need to worry about in their own home. 

How do you clean a bedpan?

Always empty the bedpan right away into the toilet. Clean it immediately by rinsing with additional water and then scrubbing with a toilet brush and soapy water or bathroom cleaner. Rinse again, and dump the wastewater into the toilet.

Using a bedpan liner is an easy and effective alternative to cleaning the pan, although it is more costly and produces more garbage.

Our Top Picks for Best Best Bedpan

Our overall favorite of the bedpans reviewed is the YUMSUM Heavy Duty Contoured Bedpan, a simple but quality product with good durability, comfortable molded contour, and budget-friendly price. The YUMSUM should nicely meet the needs of most seniors in search of a standard bedpan.

Honorable Mentions

We just couldn’t conclude today’s roundup without a nod to a couple other options and useful products.

Best Bariatric Bedpan: Medline Industries Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpan

The Medline Mega-Fracture Bariatric Bedpan is an excellent bedpan for larger individuals owing to its tapered design, non-stick surface and generous 900 pound weight capacity. Thanks to its wide-yet-shallow design, this bedpan is not too bulky for smaller individuals who may appreciate its extra-large 1.5 liter content capacity.

Best Portable Bedpan: KIKIGOAL Inflatable Bedpan

The idea of an inflatable bedpan is so novel and helpful, we’d be remiss if we didn’t recognize it. Seniors who use it find it to be much more comfortable than traditional hard bedpans, and it is especially appreciated by those with severe pain. Its inflatable nature makes it ideal for tucking in a pocket or glove compartment for travel, and it even comes with its own pump.

Best Male Urinal System: Advantage Urinal System with Spill Proof Collection Bag

A good night’s sleep makes all the difference in a senior’s health and wellness. The Advantage Urinal System can make a profound difference in the lives of men who use it, and those who care for them, by removing the need to get out of bed to urinate throughout the night.

A quick draining tube connects the urinal to a collection bag to ensure the urinal remains empty and at the ready all night long. The collection bag and tubing is designed to prevent spills, messes or odors. 

Best Add-On for Easy Clean-Up: Carebag Bedpan Liners

These medical grade Carebag Bedpan Liners work with 99.9% of bedpans to absorb mess, odors, germs and make clean up almost non-existent with almost no effort. 

Thanks for joining us as we review today’s Best Bedpans and Urinals for the Elderly! We’re interested in hearing your thoughts on the matter! Please feel free to share in the comments below.

Last update on 2022-01-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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