Best Medical Catheters of 2025

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Medical catheters are essential tools in modern healthcare, designed to facilitate various medical procedures. These flexible tubes are used for a range of purposes, including draining fluids, delivering medications, and monitoring internal pressures. Available in different sizes and materials, they cater to diverse patient needs and medical conditions. Whether for temporary or long-term use, medical catheters play a crucial role in enhancing patient care and improving treatment outcomes across various medical settings.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Medline Foley Catheter Tray Pack Cover #TOP 1
Medline Foley Catheter Tray Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Medline Foley Catheters, Silicone-Elastomer Coated, Latex, 10 cc Balloon Size, 16 French Size (12 Pack) Cover #TOP 2
Medline Foley Catheters, Silicone-Elastomer Coated, Latex, 10 cc Balloon Size, 16 French Size (12 Pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BD Insyte Autoguard BC Shielded IV Catheter Cover #TOP 3
BD Insyte Autoguard BC Shielded IV Catheter
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Medical Catheters

#TOP 1

Medline Foley Catheter Tray Pack

DYNC1810
Medline Foley Catheter Tray Pack Cover
Medline Industries Foley Catheter Insertion Trays with 10mL Syringe, Latex Free (Pack of 20)

The Medline Foley Tray is designed to provide everything you need for a smooth Foley catheter insertion. Each kit includes all necessary materials, allowing you to select the appropriate drain bag and catheter size based on your patient's specific needs. This flexibility ensures that you can cater to various situations effectively. Additionally, the tray comes with essential items like a 10 mL sterile water syringe, gloves, swab sticks, a basin, an underpad, a drape, and lubricating jelly, all of which are latex-free for safety and comfort. This comprehensive setup enhances convenience and efficiency during procedures.

What We Like
Complete kit for insertion
Customizable catheter and bag
Latex-free materials
Convenient and efficient setup
#TOP 2

Medline Foley Catheters, Silicone-Elastomer Coated, Latex, 10 cc Balloon Size, 16 French Size (12 Pack)

DYND11756
16FR
Medline Foley Catheters, Silicone-Elastomer Coated, Latex, 10 cc Balloon Size, 16 French Size (12 Pack) Cover
Medline Foley Catheters, Silicone-Elastomer Coated, Latex, 10 cc Balloon Size, 16 French Size (Pack of 12)

Medline Foley Catheters are a reliable and convenient option for those in need of a medical catheter. These catheters are internally and externally coated with 100% silicone, which helps resist encrustation and ensures maximum comfort and drainage. With its innovative manufacturing process, Medline provides the maximum amount of silicone coating available, making these catheters a great choice for long-term use. The symmetrical balloon design adds reliability and proper placement in the bladder, while the large smooth drainage eyes enhance comfort and drainage. Medline Foley Catheters are a high-quality option that offers convenience and effectiveness for medical catheter users.

What We Like
Reliable
Comfortable
Effective
#TOP 3

BD Insyte Autoguard BC Shielded IV Catheter

BD
382523
Blue
BD Insyte Autoguard BC Shielded IV Catheter Cover
BD Medical Systems 382523 Insyte Autoguard BC Shielded IV Catheter with Blood Control Technology, 22 Gauge, 1" Length, Blue (Box of 50)

The BD Insyte Autoguard BC Shielded IV Catheter, also known as the BD Shielded IV Catheter, is a high-quality medical catheter designed by BD Medical Systems. This catheter features push-button shielding technology, which has been proven to reduce needle stick injuries by 95%. It also includes blood-control technology, which reduces the risk of blood exposure by 95%. Another notable feature is the use of BD Vialon biomaterial, which helps reduce the chance of mechanical phlebitis by up to 50%. With these advanced features, the BD Shielded IV Catheter provides a safer and more convenient option for medical professionals, minimizing the risk of needle stick injuries and blood exposure. It is an ideal choice for healthcare settings where patient safety is a top priority.

What We Like
Reduced needle stick injuries
Reduced risk of blood exposure
Decreased chance of mechanical phlebitis
#TOP 4

Dale Medical 316 Hold-n-Place Foley Catheter Tube Holder Leg Band (Pack of 10)

Dale
Dale Medical 316 Hold-n-Place Foley Catheter Tube Holder Leg Band (Pack of 10) Cover
Dale Medical 316 Hold-n-Place Foley Catheter Tube Holder Leg Band (Pack of 10)

The Dale Medical 316 Hold-n-Place Foley Catheter Tube Holder Leg Band (Pack of 10), also known as the Dale Foley Catheter Holder, is a versatile and convenient solution for securing Foley catheters. This leg band can be used with equal effectiveness on all Foley catheters, providing a reliable and secure hold. The re-sealable adhesive and fastener tab allow for multiple repositionings, ensuring a comfortable fit for the user. Additionally, this holder is latex-free, making it suitable for individuals with latex allergies. With the Dale Foley Catheter Holder, users can experience the convenience of a secure and adjustable solution for their catheter needs.

What We Like
Secure hold
Adjustable and repositionable
Latex-free
#TOP 5

Medline 100% Silicone Foley Catheters

DYND11503
18 French Size
Medline 100% Silicone Foley Catheters Cover
Medline SelectSilicone Foley Catheters, 100% Silicone, 18 Fr, 10 mL, 2-Way, Bullet-Shaped Tip, Symmetrical Balloon, Radiopaque Strip, Case of 10 Each

The Medline Silicone Catheters are designed to enhance your comfort and convenience during use. Made entirely from silicone, these catheters minimize tissue irritation, making them ideal for extended wear. The bullet-shaped tip allows for straightforward insertion, ensuring a smoother experience for users. Additionally, the symmetrical balloon provides reliable performance, while the larger inner lumen promotes efficient drainage. This combination of features means you can expect a more comfortable and effective catheterization process.

What We Like
Reduced tissue irritation
Easy insertion design
Reliable symmetrical balloon
Efficient drainage
#TOP 6

Medline 18 Fr Foley Catheters

DYND11778
18FR
Medline 18 Fr Foley Catheters Cover
Medline Silicone-Elastomer Coated Latex Foley Catheters, 18 Fr, 30 mL Balloon, Straight Tip, 2-Way, Case of 12 Each

The Medline Foley Catheters are designed for optimal performance and user convenience. Their silicone-elastomer coating helps prevent buildup, ensuring smoother use and less maintenance. With large, oval-shaped drainage eyes, these catheters promote better drainage, making procedures more efficient for you. This product comes in a case of twelve, providing ample supply for medical needs. The straight tip design and two-way functionality enhance usability, allowing for straightforward insertion and drainage. Overall, these features make the Medline Foley Catheters an excellent choice for effective and reliable catheterization.

What We Like
Enhanced resistance to buildup
Efficient drainage design
Convenient case of 12
Straight tip for easy use
#TOP 7

Medline 20 Fr Foley Catheters

DYND11760
20FR
Medline 20 Fr Foley Catheters Cover
Medline Silicone-Elastomer Coated Latex Foley Catheters, 20 Fr, 10 mL Balloon, Straight Tip, 2-Way, Case of 12 Each

The Medline Foley Catheters are designed with an advanced silicone-elastomer coating that helps prevent encrustation and ensures easy insertion. This feature is particularly beneficial for users as it minimizes discomfort during placement. Additionally, the catheters have large, oval-shaped drainage eyes, maximizing drainage efficiency, which can lead to better patient outcomes. Each catheter comes in a convenient case of 12, providing ample supply for medical needs. With a size of 20 Fr and a 10 mL balloon, these straight tip, 2-way catheters are optimized for effective urinary management.

What We Like
Advanced coating for comfort
Efficient drainage design
Convenient case of 12
Effective urinary management
#TOP 8

BD Insyte Autoguard IV Catheter 20G

BD
381433
Pink
BD Insyte Autoguard IV Catheter 20G Cover
BD Medical Systems 381433 Insyte Autoguard BC Shielded IV Catheter, 20 Gauge, 1" Length, Pink (Box of 50)

The BD Insyte Autoguard Catheter offers several advantages for users. Its enhanced kink resistance means you can trust it to maintain flow without interruptions. This feature is especially important during procedures where stability is crucial. Additionally, it significantly lowers the risk of phlebitis, which can lead to painful inflammation. By reducing the chances of infiltration, it ensures that the medication reaches the intended site effectively. Lastly, the catheter allows for a longer indwelling time, providing convenience for patients who require extended treatment without frequent changes.

What We Like
Kink resistance
Lower phlebitis risk
Extended indwelling time
Reduced infiltration risk
#TOP 9

Medline 18 Fr Coude Tip Foley Catheters

DYND11218
18FR
Medline 18 Fr Coude Tip Foley Catheters Cover
Medline Silicone-Elastomer Coated Latex Foley Catheters, 18 Fr, 10 mL, Coude Tip, 2-Way, Case of 12 Each

The Medline Foley Catheters are designed to enhance your comfort and efficiency. Their silicone-elastomer coating helps prevent buildup, making them easier to use over time. You’ll appreciate the large, oval-shaped eyes that ensure maximum drainage, reducing the risk of blockages. This product comes in a convenient case of 12, so you’ll always have a catheter on hand when you need one. Additionally, the Coude tip design allows for easier insertion, particularly in challenging anatomical situations, providing you with a reliable solution for your medical needs.

What We Like
Comfort-enhancing coating
Efficient drainage design
Convenient case of 12
Easy insertion with Coude tip
#TOP 10

Curaplex Curaslide IV Catheter 22G

MS-84122
Curaplex Curaslide IV Catheter 22G Cover
Curaplex Curaslide Safety IV Catheter, 22G X 1" Needle, Box of 50 Catheters (50)

The Curaplex Curaslide Catheter is designed with user comfort and safety in mind. Its fully enclosed needle shield and secure locking mechanism help ensure safe usage, reducing the risk of accidental needle sticks. The thumb grip is ergonomically crafted to make insertion easier for you, enhancing control and precision during the process. Additionally, the gently tapered tip of the catheter allows for a smooth transition from the needle, making the experience more comfortable. These features work together to provide a reliable and efficient solution for IV access.

What We Like
Enhanced safety features
Ergonomic thumb grip
Smooth catheter transition
Secure locking mechanism
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 3 main types of catheters?

The three main types of catheters are indwelling catheters, condom catheters, and intermittent self-catheters. Each type serves a specific purpose and is used in different medical situations.

2. Can you purchase catheters over the counter?

Catheters are not typically available for purchase over the counter at local pharmacies or drug stores. A prescription from a doctor is usually required to obtain catheters. They can be ordered from a medical supply company with the prescription.

3. How long can a catheter stay in?

The duration a catheter can stay in the bladder depends on the type. A short-term catheter can remain in the bladder for up to one month, while a long-term catheter can stay in for up to three months. It is important to follow proper catheter hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.

4. Can you pee through a catheter?

Yes, a catheter allows urine to drain either into a toilet or a collection bag. One end of the catheter is placed in the bladder, and urine flows through the catheter and out of the body. When urine flow stops, the catheter can be safely removed.

5. How painful is a catheter for a male?

When performed correctly, catheterization should not be painful for males. It should not cause bleeding, burning, or other discomforting symptoms. It is important to ensure proper technique and lubrication to minimize any potential discomfort.

6. How long can a Foley catheter be left in?

A Foley catheter, a type of indwelling catheter, should be removed and replaced by a doctor or nurse at least every three months. This helps to maintain proper hygiene and reduce the risk of complications. In some cases, patients or their caregivers may be taught to perform the catheter change themselves.

Editor's Notes

During our medical catheter research, we found 24 medical catheter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,078 customer reviews through our big data system to write the medical catheters list. We found that most customers choose medical catheters with an average price of $33.10.

The medical catheters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of medical catheters, including Medline, BD, Dale, Curaplex. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.