This project paper provides detailed information on the main products available for the practical management of incontinence. The author has brought together in a succinct and easily readable form all the essential facts. These include the theory underlying each type of product, differences in manufacture and presentation, costs, the research work published so far and that which still needs to be carried out. Intended as an essential vade mecum for continence nurse advisers, community nurses and ward sisters, this review contains information which will be of practical benefit to general practitioners and all specialists who work among people with incontinence.