Let’s be honest. Getting undressed is one of those everyday moments you don’t really think about… until something makes it harder.

If you’re living with incontinence, that “simple” routine can suddenly feel like a bit of a juggling act. There’s timing, there’s movement, there’s the worry about leaks, and sometimes it just feels overwhelming to manage it all at once.

The good news? There are plenty of small, practical ways to make getting undressed easier, more comfortable, and a lot less stressful.

This isn’t about doing things perfectly… It's about finding what works best for you!

Start with Your Setup

Before you even get to the undressing part, your environment can make a huge difference.

Think about where you usually change. Is it easy to move around? Do you have everything you need within reach? Are you rushing because you feel like you have to be quick?

A few small tweaks can go a long way:

• Keep fresh products nearby so you’re not searching mid-change

• Have wipes or a small towel within arm’s reach

• Make sure there’s somewhere stable to sit if you need it

• Good lighting can help you feel more in control of the process

A calm, organised setup, at home or on the go, can make the whole process feel smoother and easier to handle.

Choose Clothing That Works With You

Clothing plays a bigger role than most people realise.

Tight waistbands, tricky buttons, or complicated layers can turn undressing into more of a challenge than it needs to be, especially if you’re trying to move quickly.

Instead, you might want to look for:

• Elastic waistbands that are easy to pull down

• Simple fastenings like zips or Velcro

• Looser fits that don’t cling or restrict movement

• Dresses or skirts if that feels easier than pants

It’s not about changing your style completely, just making small swaps that make things easier and more comfortable for you. 

Take Your Time (When You Can)

There’s often a sense of urgency when it comes to incontinence, and sometimes that’s unavoidable.

But when you do have the chance, slowing things down can make the whole process feel more manageable.

Rushing can lead to spills, discomfort, or fumbling with clothing. Giving yourself even a few extra seconds can help you stay more steady and in control.

If you’re out and about, this might mean heading to the bathroom a little earlier than you think you need to. At home, it might just mean not putting pressure on yourself to move at top speed.

Master the ‘One-Step’ Undress

When things feel urgent, fewer steps is always better.

The idea here is to simplify your movements so you’re not dealing with too many adjustments at once.

For example:

• Pull underwear and bottoms down together in one motion

• Avoid layered clothing where you have to remove items one at a time

• Position yourself (standing or sitting) before you start, so you’re not shifting mid-way

This reduces the chance of leaks and makes the whole process feel smoother.

Sitting vs Standing: Find Your Comfort Zone

There’s no “right” way to undress — but your position can make a big difference.

Some people feel more stable sitting down, especially if balance or mobility is a concern. Others prefer standing because it feels quicker and more natural.

You might want to try both and see what feels easier:

• Sitting can give you more control and reduce the risk of losing balance

• Standing can be faster when timing is important

If you’re unsure, having the option to sit nearby gives you flexibility.

Be Prepared for ‘Just in Case’ Moments

Even with the best planning, things don’t always go perfectly — and that’s okay.

Having a small routine for those moments can make them feel less overwhelming.

You might want to keep:

• Spare products within easy reach

• A change of underwear or clothing nearby

• Disposal bags for quick, discreet clean-up

It’s not about expecting the worst — it’s about making sure you’re not caught off guard.

Skin Comfort Matters More Than You Think

Undressing isn’t just about removing clothing — it’s also a chance to check in with your skin.

Moisture, friction, and repeated changes can sometimes lead to irritation.

A few simple habits can help:

• Gently clean and dry the area before putting on a fresh product

• Avoid harsh rubbing — patting dry is often more comfortable

• Consider barrier creams if your skin feels sensitive

Taking care of your skin can make the whole experience more comfortable over time.

Night-Time Undressing: A Different Routine

Getting undressed before bed can come with its own challenges — especially if you’re tired or less steady on your feet.

You might want to make this part of your routine a little easier by:

• Laying out everything you need ahead of time

• Sitting down while you change to reduce effort

• Choosing sleepwear that’s easy to remove quickly if needed overnight

A little preparation here can make evenings feel more relaxed.

When You’re Out and About

Public bathrooms can add another layer of stress — smaller spaces, less privacy, and sometimes not the cleanest conditions.

A few strategies can help you feel more prepared:

• Carry a small kit with essentials (products, wipes, disposal bags)

• Choose accessible or larger stalls when available

• Wear clothing that’s easy to manage in tighter spaces

Planning ahead can make these situations feel much more manageable.

Practice Makes Perfect

This might sound simple, but getting comfortable with your routine often comes down to practice.

Trying things out at home — different clothing, different positions, different setups — can help you figure out what feels easiest before you’re in a time-sensitive situation.

It’s not about getting it perfect. It’s about building a routine that feels familiar and manageable.

You might also find leak log or symptom tracker apps helpful for building a routine and tracking patterns like urination volume and frequency, fluid intake, and leaks.

Disclaimer:

This article is intended as general information only and is based on common experiences around managing incontinence in everyday situations. It isn’t medical advice and doesn’t replace guidance from a healthcare professional. If you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort, frequent leaks, skin irritation, or have concerns about your bladder or bowel health, you should speak with a GP, continence nurse, or other qualified health professional for personalised support.