The Consumer Council conducted tests to assess the performance in penetrating quality, breathability, quality, hygiene, the presence of hazardous chemical substances, pH value, etc for 15 models of adult diapers, ten kinds of adult pants and five different incontinence pads on the market.

It found that 13 models had a lower level of breathability; two showed a higher rewet tendency to the surface, while one model was found with a higher amount of leakage.

For the overall performance, the Council said two adult diapers received a rating of 4.5 or above, with an average cost of HK$5 and HK$6.2 per piece, respectively. However, the highest-priced diaper model (HK$9.3/piece) only scored 3 points.

"Test results reflect that there is no necessary correlation between product quality and price, so consumers should choose wisely," the consumer watchdog advised.

The Council stated that all tested products met the absorption standard for adult diapers and pants (50 seconds or less for the first round and 100 seconds or less for the second), but there were significant discrepancies in absorption speed among the models.

Furthermore, seven diaper models had a higher degree of surface dryness as the measured average amount of rewetting is less than 0.5g. Five pant models performed well with an average rewet amount of less than 0.5g, while one performed poorly at 20.1g.

It added that most of the tested diapers and pants had no leakage or only slight leakage, except for one pant model that was less satisfactory in performance. Overall test results showed that two pant models simultaneously had good breathability and leakproofness, demonstrating that by using a bottom film with both waterproof and breathable properties, manufacturers could achieve "zero leakage" and high breathability at the same time.

In terms of hygiene and chemical safety, all models complied with the requirements of relevant standards, but one of them was detected with a small amount of fungi, while four were detected with free formaldehyde.

The Council advised consumers to consider the user's health condition when purchasing adult diapers, pants or incontinence pads. For those who are incontinent due to mobility issues or bedridden are suited to diapers that are less likely to leak, breathable and have quick absorption to keep the skin dry.

For heavy incontinence, products with high absorption capacity should be used. For individuals who have moderate or heavy incontinence but can walk on their own, or stand and walk with assistance, they can opt for adult pants which are convenient to wear and with higher breathability and quick absorption.