HARTMANN incontinence products Category Winner by Stiftung Warentest

MoliCare and MoliForm take top places in comprehensive testing.

Heidenheim, 22 February 2017. Incontinence pants, pull-ups and pads: these were the categories used by Stiftung Warentest, the most highly regarded German testing magazine, in their testing of incontinence products, to be published in tomorrow's edition of the magazine. The MoliCare and MoliForm products by PAUL HARTMANN AG, a leading international provider of medical and care products, take top places in two categories. The products were assessed almost exclusively by incontinence sufferers using an applied testing procedure. The results therefore reflect a real life situation, not laboratory values.

No matter whether in a hospital, a nursing home or domestic care – the use of appropriate, high-quality incontinence products determines the wellbeing of the patient, as well as effort required by care personnel. Pants or pads have to combine a variety of requirements. Among other things, they should be absorbent, prevent leakage and thus also protect the skin of sufferers. Around 200 patients tested products from various manufacturers in three categories on behalf of Stiftung Warentest. "In our product development we cooperate closely with nursing care specialists who work with patients every day. This results in high-quality, easy-to-use products that undergo continuous further development by us. Our winners are the result," explains Robin Bähr, Marketing Manager at PAUL HARTMANN AG.

In the High Absorption Incontinence Pants category, with comparable absorption capacity according to current measuring methods, the MoliCare Premium Slip Super Plus L emerged as category winner with a quality rating of 'Good' (score of 2.1). A secure feeling above all was emphasised here by test subjects, which is a decisive factor in terms of incontinence as a taboo topic, as well as high wearer comfort. Besides the pure practicality of the pull-up brief, MoliCare Premium is also characterised by clear and simple information on the pack.

Comprehensibility is also a plus for MoliForm Premium Extra Soft incontinence pads, which achieved an overall score of 1.9 (Good). Also in the category of shaped pads only comparable, highly absorbent products were tested. As category winner, MoliForm Premium Extra Soft received an overall rating of 'Good' (1.9). Compared to lesser quality shaped pads, MoliForm Premium provides good leakage protection and comfort. Moreover, the product does not lead to dehydrated skin, which in a worst case scenario can require considerable additional care effort for nursing staff. "Stiftung Warentest makes it clear that products offered by brand manufacturers are of significantly better quality than those covered by health insurance or offered at low rates. This requires a new approach by health insurers in the medium term", adds Raimund Koch, Health Policy Unit at PAUL HARTMANN AG.

Pull-ups are particularly suitable for patients suffering from dementia who often refuse other aids. However, also people still enjoying an active lifestyle use these products, as they are very discrete. MoliCare Mobile was the winner, absorbing the largest amount (630 ml) during tests and receiving the verdict 'Good' (2.0). "The test shows that quality pays off. Not only does it make incontinence easier to handle for the sufferer, quality products also relieve the burden of care on nursing staff," reports Robin Bähr. HARTMANN now goes one step further: Studies prove that incontinence products by HARTMANN assist in preventing incontinence associated dermatitis (IAD).

The HARTMANN GROUP is one of the leading European providers of professional medical and care products and associated services. Every day, healthcare professionals and patients rely on HARTMANN brands in the segments of Incontinence Management (e.g. MoliCare®), Wound Care (e.g. Zetuvit®, Cosmopor®) and Infection Management (e. g. Sterillium®). This is expressed in our brand promise of “Helps. Cares. Protects.” HARTMANN generated sales of EUR 2.3 billion in the 2023 financial year. Founded in 1818, the Company sells its products and solutions in 130 countries around the world. For the future, the HARTMANN GROUP is currently implementing its strategic Transformation Program with its high-performance, customer-oriented and passionate team.

To learn more about the HARTMANN GROUP, visit www.corporate.hartmann.info.