Adult Diaper Market Drivers and Forecasts by 2030

[Research Report] The adult diaper market size is expected to grow from US$ 15,147.85 million in 2022 to US$ 24,130.74 million by 2030; it is estimated to register a CAGR of 6.0% from 2022 to 2030.

Market Insights and Analyst View:

An adult diaper is an absorbent undergarment designed for adults who experience urinary or fecal incontinence. Adult diapers are worn by individuals who may have difficulty controlling their bladder or bowel movements. With an aging population, an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and a growing focus on geriatric care propel the demand for adult diapers. Adult diapers provide comfort, convenience, and protection to individuals, enhancing their quality of life and allowing them to maintain independence. Manufacturers in the market offer adult diapers in various sizes, styles, and absorbency levels, addressing the diverse needs and preferences of users. Additionally, technological advancements have led to the development of more discreet, breathable, and skin-friendly adult diaper products. This factor is significantly driving the global adult diaper market growth.

Growth Drivers and Challenges:

The aging population is prone to incontinence issues. Incontinence refers to the loss of bladder or bowel control, leading to involuntary leakage of urine or faeces. It is a common issue among old population, primarily caused by age-related factors such as weakened pelvic muscles and specific health conditions. The rising aging population increases the prevalence of incontinence, thereby driving demand for adult diapers as an effective solution. Additionally, many older adults require long-term care in their own homes, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes. Incontinence can significantly impact an individual's sense of dignity and independence. By using adult diapers, people can maintain their dignity and sense of self-worth and manage their incontinence discreetly and confidently. Adult diapers enable individuals to engage in social interactions, travel, and participate in various activities without fear of accidents or leakage. Therefore, the growing awareness of the benefits of adult diapers is fueling its market growth. However, incontinence is often considered a sensitive and embarrassing issue. People feel ashamed of their inability to control body functions, leading to a reluctance to seek help or discuss their condition openly. This stigma surrounding incontinence can extend to using adult diapers, as individuals may fear judgment or negative perceptions from others. Also, this stigma can profoundly impact individuals' self-esteem and mental well-being. The Continence Foundation of Australia in 2021 revealed that the number of Australians suffering from incontinence was rising, but the percentage of Australians that seek medical assistance remained low, also indicating that 78% of people not discussing incontinence with their family and doctor. This factor hinders the demand for adult diapers.

Adult Diaper Market: Strategic Insights

Report Segmentation and Scope:

The “Global Adult Diaper Market” is segmented on the basis of product type, category, and end-user. Based on product type, the market is segmented into pull-up diapers, tape on diapers, pad style, and others. By category, the adult diaper market is segmented into men, women, and unisex. Based on end-user, the adult diaper market is segmented into residential, hospitals and clinics, and others. The market, based on geography, is segmented into North America (the US, Canada, and Mexico), Europe (Germany, France, Italy, the UK, Russia, and the Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (Australia, China, Japan, India, South Korea, and the Rest of Asia Pacific), the Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the Rest of Middle East & Africa), and South & Central America (Brazil, Argentina, and the Rest of South & Central America).

Segmental Analysis:

Based on product type, the adult diaper market is segmented into pull-up diapers, tape on diapers, pad style, and others. The pull-up diapers segment held the largest share in 2022Adult pull-up diapers, also known as adult pull-on briefs or adult disposable underwear, are absorbent undergarments designed for adults who experience moderate to heavy urinary or fecal incontinence. They resemble regular underwear and feature an elastic waistband that can be pulled up and down like regular underwear. These diapers are available in various sizes and absorbency levels to meet different needs. People are increasingly demanding pull-up adult diapers as they are highly absorbent, convenient, and easy to use. The increase in the awareness about personal hygiene is expected to further boost the adult diaper market growth. Based on category, the adult diaper market is segmented into men, women, and unisex. The adult diaper market share for the unisex segment was the largest in 2022. Unisex adult diapers, also known as gender-neutral adult diapers, are designed to be worn by individuals of any gender who experience bladder or bowel incontinence. These diapers are typically designed with a unisex fit, which means they are suitable for both men and women. Based on end-user, the adult diaper market is segmented into residential, hospitals and clinics, and others. The adult diaper market share for the residential segment was the largest in 2022. Adult diapers are used in various residential settings for people of different age groups who may require them due to medical conditions, disabilities, or other circumstances. Many older adults experience age-related conditions such as bladder or bowel control problems, mobility limitations, or cognitive impairments. Also, adult diapers are helpful for individuals with physical or developmental disabilities who may require assistance with toileting. 

Regional Analysis:

Based on geography, the adult diaper market is segmented into five key regions—North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South & Central America, and the Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific dominated the global adult diaper market share and accounted for US$ 5,483.55 million in 2022. Asia Pacific is a major contributor holding ∼35% share of the global market. South & Central America is expected to register a considerable  CAGR of ∼ 7.6% during the forecast period. The adult diaper market in South & Central America is segmented into Brazil, Argentina, and the Rest of South & Central America. One of the major factors bolstering the market growth in this region is the increasing awareness regarding personal hygiene products. According to the World Health Organization, Brazil spends US$ 1,035 per capita on healthcare annually. In the past few years, there has been a considerable rise in the number of hospitals in Brazil, majorly due to the increasing number of traffic accidents and surgeries. As per ProColombia (the Government of Colombia), 21,000 patients entered Colombia for healthcare service-related purposes in 2019. Thus, the increase in geriatric population is expected to boost the adult diaper market expansion in the coming years.

Industry Developments and Future Opportunities:

Various initiatives taken by the key players operating in the adult diaper market are listed below:

1. In June 2021, Ontex BV developed a smart diaper to improve patient incontinence care, accelerating innovation in adult care, which has seen good and steady growth in recent years. The company's innovative solution comprises a top-quality diaper with a printed sensor, a transmitter clipped onto the diaper, and an application for mobile devices.

The regional trends and factors influencing the Adult Diaper Market throughout the forecast period have been thoroughly explained by the analysts at The Insight Partners. This section also discusses Adult Diaper Market segments and geography across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America.

Adult Diaper Market Report Scope

Adult Diaper Market Players Density: Understanding Its Impact on Business Dynamics

The Adult Diaper Market is growing rapidly, driven by increasing end-user demand due to factors such as evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and greater awareness of the product's benefits. As demand rises, businesses are expanding their offerings, innovating to meet consumer needs, and capitalizing on emerging trends, which further fuels market growth.

Covid-19 Impact: 

The COVID-19 pandemic affected almost all industries in various countries. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and business shutdowns in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), South & Central America (SAM), and the Middle East & Africa (MEA) hampered the growth of several industries, including the chemicals & materials industry. The shutdown of manufacturing units disturbed global supply chains, manufacturing activities, delivery schedules, and essential and nonessential product sales. Various companies reported delays in product deliveries and a slump in their product sales in 2020. Due to the pandemic-induced economic recession, consumers became cautious and selective in their purchasing decisions. Nonessential purchases were significantly reduced by consumers due to lower incomes and uncertain earning prospects, especially in developing regions. Many manufacturers of adult diapers faced declining profits due to reduced consumer demand during the initial phase of the pandemic. However, by the end of 2021, many countries were fully vaccinated, and governments announced relaxation in certain regulations, including lockdowns and travel bans. People started traveling to different places, which increased the demand for adult diapers. All these factors had a positive impact on the growth of the adult diaper market across different regions.

Competitive Landscape and Key Companies:

Nippon Paper Industries Co Ltd, Drylock Technologies NV, Ontex BV, Health Care Products Inc, First Quality Enterprises Inc, Kimberly-Clark Corp, Principle Business Enterprises Inc, Essity AB, Abena AS, and Paul Hartmann AG are among the prominent players operating in the global adult diaper market. These  players offer high-quality adult diapers and cater to many consumers in the global market.