This topic is about finding ostomy pouches that come in solid colors like black, green, or blue, instead of the usual medical-looking shades. The idea is to have pouches that look less clinical, especially when shirts ride up or come off in warm weather. The person asking is not a fan of bag covers because they can be cumbersome to manage when emptying the pouch. They are curious if any major suppliers or third-party companies already offer colored pouches, or if they should consider dyeing them themselves.
Here are some helpful insights and advice:
1. Existing Colored Pouches:
- Salts Healthcare offers the "Confidence BE" line in the UK, now also available in Canada, with black and white options. These pouches have a water-repellent black cover and strong adhesive.
- Coloplast provides pouches in a dove-gray fabric-covered style, praised for material quality, though some users find the ‘Click’ coupling less favorable.
- Convatec has tan/white urinary pouches, and Marlen previously offered tan and green models.
2. Color Research:
- A study found gray to be the least visible color under most clothing and skin tones, which is why some companies choose gray for their pouches.
3. DIY Coloring Methods:
- Broad-tip Sharpies or other permanent markers can be used to color a pouch or add designs.
- Colored duct tape can wrap the pouch in any shade or pattern and can also seal unwanted vents.
- Fabric paints allow for creating durable, uniform designs on the pouch surface.
4. Cover, Patch, and Support Alternatives:
- Custom fabric covers are available on Etsy, with a recommended maker being Wanda Thurston Drews.
- Pre-made adhesive patches like "Happy Sacks" adhere to the pouch without affecting the outlet.
- Other cover sources include Pouchcovers.com and various sellers on Etsy.
- High-waisted underwear, bikinis, or belts like StealthBelt can conceal or support the pouch without needing a separate cover.
5. Future Possibilities:
- Some suggest lobbying manufacturers like Hollister, ConvaTec, and Coloplast to release more colors and patterns, as product designers have noted it is technically feasible, though not yet widely available.
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