Just-in-Case Policy

There are a lot of ideas out there on how to treat bedwetting. In my opinion, it's not a big deal. Most kids outgrow it by the time they reach 14 or so. That's not to say that if it's a problem in some families, efforts shouldn't be made to try to rectify it. Some use bedwetting alarms, others even resort to regular enemas to reduce constipation, figuring that contributes to nocturnal enuresis. My attitude about wetting is more relaxed. I subscribe to the just-in-case policy.

This is the policy that kids of a certain age and younger should routinely wear a diaper to bed. If the child wakes up and the diaper is dry, no problem. Maybe even reuse the diaper the following evening. If the diaper is wet, also no problem. That's what they're for, and it's not an issue. Diapers are just another form of underwear for kids and adolescents. My attitude is that if a child has to go at night, just use the diaper and go back to sleep. I also think this policy applies for situations when it's likely that the child will need a public restroom, like for prolonged outings, long car rides, or other extended travel. This would include trips to musement parks and things like that. Again, if the diaper is used, not a problem. That's the expectation. No shame and no harm.

So how many agree with this policy or find it appealing? And if so, what kind of diapers? Goodnites type pull-on absorbent underwear? More traditional tape up diapers that need to be done up by the parents? And if so, disposable or cloth? And what should be the age cutoff - meaning for what age and younger should this be the routine?

Emily592 · 31-35, F

My boyfriend had the idea to put my son, who just turned 13, into diapers every evening to manage the accidents that boys typically have while sleeping at that age. After supper each night, he is taped into his diaper, and it certainly helps keep everything cleaner. And of course if he feels the need to pee during the night, he can use his diaper and go back to sleep.

Alex1702 · M

My brother and I still wear diapers to bed every night. Our parents believe in the "just in case" rule. They say that if we need to use the bathroom we can just use our diapers and then go back to sleep because that's what they are for. Its interesting that they don't really care if our diapers are dry or wet when we get up in the morning. They say its better for us to be diapered and get a good nights sleep without disruptions

JackMasters · 56-60, M

@Emily592 That's certainly early enough that boy would end up going into the diaper on the on a regular basis at night sometimes even before bed. Is the diaper removed before breakfast in the morning or has he eaten at the table in his diaper?