Why does it often seem that the smallest cuts and scrapes are the most painful? Even the tiniest paper cut can be excruciating when you run your hand under water. The only way to minimize this pain even a little bit is with the help of a handy adhesive bandage.

If you don’t have a collection of bandages at home, you should get a set soon. These are useful for most minor injuries and can really help to take the edge off of a cut. Since there are hundreds of these type of bandages available, though, you may be wondering which one is actually worth its cost?

We came up with a list to make this decision a lot easier for you. Check out some of the options here and you will be sure to have all the wound protection that you need.

1. Band-Aid Flexible Adhesive Bandages

[amazon fields=”B00006IDL6″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B00006IDL6″ template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: [amazon link=”B00006IDL6″ title=”Band-Aid bandages”] create a breathable environment for your wound while making sure that the fabric is flexible enough to bend and move.

There is no need to introduce Band-Aid since its name is synonymous with adhesive bandages. Still, there is a reason that this remains one of the best-known brands, and these bandages prove it. First of all, the padding is amazing, since it uses Quilt Vent technology. This creates an air flow in the area of the wound, improving breathability and helping the wound to dry up more quickly. It also wicks away blood and other types of discharge to create a dry environment.

The bandages also rely on Memory Weave fabric. This means that although the bandage will stick tightly to your skin, there is also a lot of flexibility. When you move, the bandage moves along with the skin. You can feel comfortable and move about freely while you have one of these bandages on. While there is only one bandage size, it is large enough to fit most of the wounds or cuts that you may get. The kit also offers quite the supply, with 100 different bandages to use up.

Recommended Read: Best Moisturizing Gloves

2. Curity Adhesive Fabric Bandages

[amazon fields=”B00D7C45HM” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B00D7C45HM” template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The [amazon link=”B00D7C45HM” title=”Curity”] adhesive bandages will stay on as long as you need them to. They are also quite flexible with help with movement.

If you want bandages that are going to stick to your skin, almost no matter what, then the Curity adhesive bandages are what you need. They will even stay on if you run them under water for a short period of time. In addition to good adhesion, these bandages are also quite long. This means that they wrap around a greater amount of skin and stay put. So, if you really want your wound to remain protected as you putter around, then these are the bandages for you.

The other good thing about these bandages is that you can put them on a body part that you move quite a lot, such as your fingers or a joint. These have been made to be flexible and to move along with your skin. This way, there is no painful pulling and your movement isn’t restricted at all either. All in all, you will find it difficult to procure better bandages for a similar or lower cost. These are always good to have around.

3. Band-Aid Brand Hydro Seal Adhesive Bandages

[amazon fields=”B077TKLJ8T” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B077TKLJ8T” template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: If you are an outdoor enthusiast, then the Band-Aid Brand [amazon link=”B077TKLJ8T” title=”Hydro Seal”] Adhesive Bandages are the ideal option you want to go with. They lock in moisture and seal out water so that your injury has the perfect environment to heal. Along with that, they are long lasting and are perfect for individuals who are always on the go.

We have all gotten blisters on our heels, fingers and other awkward areas that make it difficult to place a bandaid. When you have an injury in one of these inconvenient areas, then one of the best bandaids for the job is the Band-Aid Brand Hydro Seal Adhesive Bandages. These bandages offer you the ability to keep injured areas nice and protected. What is even better is the fact that they are totally waterproof and the perfect option to use during seasons like summertime where you are likely to be around bodies of water. The water sealant allows your injury to have the perfect environment for healing to take place.

Because the Band-Aid Brand Hydro Seal Adhesive Bandages are designed out of a hydrocolloid material, they were designed to be used for long wear. Even through a shower, your bandaid will stay put. The bandage also works to prevent your foot from drying out because it will lock in your skin’s natural moisture to promote healing. Lastly, the Band-Aid Brand Hydro Seal Adhesive Bandages blend seamlessly with your skin.

The semi-translucent material makes it difficult for others to spot the bandaid on your skin, so if that is something you are aiming for, then you will find it with this bandaid brand. If you are an active individual who suffers from blisters on your heels or other awkward areas on your foot, then the Band-Aid Brand Hydro Seal Adhesive Bandages can provide the relief that you are looking for.

4. Coverlet Strip Dressings

[amazon fields=”B000JXV5G6″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B000JXV5G6″ template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The [amazon link=”B000JXV5G6″ title=”Coverlet”] dressings come equipped with Quilt Vent technology, which allows the wound to breathe while also being sealed off at the same time.

It is important to strike a proper balance with adhesive bandages. On the one hand, you want to make sure that no water, dirt, or germs go near your wound. On the other, you want to make sure that the wound can breathe properly so that it can dry faster. Well, this is the balance that you can get with the Coverlet Strip dressings. The Quilt Vent technology means that there is proper air flow to the wound at all times.

Another excellent feature of these adhesive bandages is the absorbent pad. It is especially good at wicking away the blood and moisture from the wound. This quickens the scab-forming phase and lets your wound dry up faster. The bandages are latex free, so they are a good choice for anyone who may be allergic to certain plastics. You get a hundred bandages in each package, so you can be sure that you will not be running out of them anytime soon.

Recommended Read: Best Electric Toothbrushes

5. Flex-Band Bandages

[amazon fields=”B001ANS184″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B001ANS184″ template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The [amazon link=”B001ANS184″ title=”Flex-Band”] bandages are great at sticking to curved parts of the body, making it easier for the bandage to stay on longer.

It can be incredibly annoying to wrap a bandage around a curved part of your body only to have it pop off moments later. Most adhesive bandages are made for flat surfaces and don’t do well with knuckles and other joints. The Flex-Band bandages, however, have a unique shape that makes it easier for them to conform to almost any body part. This shape is also helpful in making sure that the ends of the bandage won’t lift off. As a result, you get a longer lasting bandage.

That’s not the only great thing about these bandages, though. Since they are hypoallergenic and latex-free, they work well on sensitive skin or for those who are prone to skin allergies. The absorbent portion of the bandage has been designed to not stick to the wound, so you don’t have to worry about ripping the scab off. Another reason that this bandage will last on your skin for longer is that it is water-resistant. This means that the bandage keeps water off your wound and won’t peel off as easily.

6. Nexcare Waterproof Bandages

[amazon fields=”B001CBDLX4″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B001CBDLX4″ template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The Nexcare adhesive bandages creates a waterproof and germ-free layer around your wound. This helps it to heal faster.

Are you tired of water getting through your adhesive bandage every time you wash your hands or take a shower? With the [amazon link=”B001CBDLX4″ title=”Nexcare”] waterproof bandages, you won’t have to face this struggle any longer. You can even go swimming or try out a water sport with this bandage on – it will still stay on your skin. Of course, water is not the only thing that the bandage repels. It also works well to keep germs, dust, and dirt away from your wound.

If you are worried about a very obvious bandage, these Nexcare bandages are the ones for you. The adhesive portion of the bandage is clear, meaning that it is barely noticeable against your skin. The material is also breathable so that your skin won’t be puffy and weird looking when you do finally take the bandage off. There are various sizes and options available in this one kit, so you will be able to find a bandage to suit almost any injury anywhere on your body.

7. ProAdvantage P150125 Adhesive Bandages

[amazon fields=”B079RR3KDD” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B079RR3KDD” template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The ProAdvantage bandages have excellent adhesive portions that let the bandage remain on the skin for longer. They are also flexible.

Sometimes, you need a bigger bandage to take care of a long scratch or cut. In these cases, the regular-sized ones simply don’t provide enough coverage. Well, for moments like these, the [amazon link=”B079RR3KDD” title=”ProAdvantage”] bandages offer plenty of protection. The ProAdvantage is more than just a large bandage though. It has an excellent absorbent pad that keeps your wound dry to accelerate the healing time. It is also breathable so that you don’t have to worry about the wound getting suffocated.

Another one of the perks of these bandages is the adhesive part. Although it doesn’t irritate the skin, it still sticks to it quite strongly. This is great if you move around a lot or are constantly getting your wound wet. Your bandage is unlikely to fall off anytime soon. While it is certainly big, it is quite flexible too. You can even put it on your knee or other joints and be confident that the bandage will still stay on.

8. Curad Performance Series Antibacterial Adhesive Bandages

[amazon fields=”B015ZRYXH8″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B015ZRYXH8″ template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The [amazon link=”B015ZRYXH8″ title=”Curad”] Performance Series adhesive bandages help to prevent wound infections and, because of greater absorption, also allow wounds to heal quicker.

There is nothing worse than an already painful wound becoming infected a little later on. Not only does it hurt more, but your wound is going to take even longer to heal. This is why the Curad Antibacterial adhesive bandages come in handy. These have antibacterial pads that help to fight off any germs that might be in your wound. So, you don’t have to be concerned about developing an infection once the bandage is applied. Also, the strong adhesive portion means that no other germs are getting in either.

The other reason that these bandages help your wound heal faster is due to the absorbency of the pad. These have been made to absorb any discharge three times more than other options. The more that the pad absorbs, the easier it is for the scabs to form on your wound. Therefore, your wound is allowed to dry up and repair the damaged skin quicker. These type of bandages are also excellent if you are athletic or move around a lot. You can guarantee that they are going to hold.

9. McKesson Performance Bandage Adhesive Fabric Strip

[amazon fields=”B002C5CG1M” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B002C5CG1M” template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The [amazon link=”B002C5CG1M” title=”McKesson”] adhesive bandages stay on for quite a while and help to keep the wound dry and free from dirt or debris.

McKesson is a brand that is actually used by several hospitals, so you can be sure that you can trust the bandage quality. One of the good things about these bandages is that they are made from fabric. Not only does this cut down allergy-related issues, it also lets the wound breathe a little more. This way, it isn’t suffocated and it is allowed to dry. The fabric also tends to be more flexible than other materials and bends to various body parts better.

The pad is also really absorbent so that any fluid that leaks is immediately pulled away from the wound. Since the wound is not kept in a constantly moist environment, it can heal quicker. The pads are incredibly sterile so you can be certain that your wound will be kept incredibly clean and safe from infection. The adhesive part of the bandage works well and stays on the skin for a longer period of time. These are definitely great adhesive bandages to have around.

Recommended Read: Best Mouthwash Brands

10. Dynarex Adhesive Fabric Bandage

[amazon fields=”B005NHBB8K” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B005NHBB8K” template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: The [amazon link=”B005NHBB8K” title=”Dynarex”] adhesive bandages are made from fabric and are flexible, making them suited for almost any body part.

Trying to get your adhesive bandage to stay on a joint or area of your body that is constantly moving can be tricky. More often than not, the bandage just falls away or leaves your wound open to infection. With the Dynarex adhesive bandages, the bandage conforms to that particular joint or body part. Since it is flexible, it will curve around the area, creating a tighter grip. Since the bandages are made from fabric, they are good for people that have skin sensitivities and need more breathable materials.

The pad on the bandage is incredibly absorbent. This helps to soak up any fluid the wound may leak and to help it to dry much faster. This, in turn, lets the scab on the wound form quicker and allows you to heal faster. This is a great bandage pack to have around the home as the bandages are versatile enough to help cover up most wounds. Not to mention, they are quite affordable too, and you get a lot of bandages for the price that you pay.

11. Ever Ready Adhesive Bandages

[amazon fields=”B0179S0IAW” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon box=”B0179S0IAW” template= “horizontal”]

Why we like it: There is a good deal of variety among the [amazon link=”B0179S0IAW” title=”Ever Ready”] adhesive bandages, and they are strong and efficient.

Now, you can’t really predict what type of cuts and scrapes that you are going to have to deal with. So, having bandages that are only one size isn’t always helpful. This is why the Ever Ready adhesive bandages pack is an excellent choice for any household. The bandages come in different shapes and sizes, perfect for a variety of wounds. It doesn’t matter what cut you have, with these bandages, you will be able to find a bandage that fits the situation.

The adhesive part of the bandage is quite strong. So, you will be able to move about as usual without being afraid of the bandage randomly popping off. The pad, however, is nonstick, so your wound will be kept gently padded instead. What’s great is that the adhesive portion of the bandage is sheer. So, instead of standing out, it blends in with your skin and is barely noticeable. This is great for a household that is filled with adults who want subtle bandages.

Adhesive Bandages Buyer’s Guide

As a 100 year old product, adhesive bandages are relatively simple to use and very simple to understand. Making your purchase may come down to personal brand preference, but here are a few things to consider before diving right in.

Bandage Sizes

Make sure that you are buying bandages that will actually cover your wound. Adhesive bandages come in many sizes. Most companies sell boxes that contain various different sizes. If you’re buying for a specific wound, make sure to get the size that fits. If you’re purchasing for preventative reasons, getting a box with mixed sizes will be your best option.

Latex v. Non-Latex

Many bandages utilize latex as a material because of its strength and durability. Band-Aid brand bandages in particular utilize latex because it withstands water, stretches well and is hard to tear. This is obviously an important factor for those wishing to keep their wounds both dry and clean. However, many people are allergic to latex on certain parts of their body. A rash may ensue as a result of this latex allergy. For those who know that they are allergic to latex, or who know that they have skin that is extra sensitive, purchasing an adhesive bandages that uses a fabric backing is a good and beneficial option. The downside with this is that the fabric may not be as effective at keeping away moisture, and may be more likely to fall off when exposed to water.

Absorbent Pad

The main feature of every adhesive bandage is the actual pad. These small, usually cotton pads are a miniature gauze that function to absorb blood from the wound. It is important to know whether or not the pad will stick to the wound. Most of these pads have a small, outer lining that is both absorbent and resistant to sticking to the wound. Cheaper, off-brand bandages often come without such a lining, and may be more susceptible to sticking to healing wounds if not changed regularly.