This topic is about managing bathroom odors and reusing drainable ostomy bags in a small, one-bathroom condo. The person sharing their experience is helping their partner, who has a colostomy, and they are looking for ways to handle the smell and storage of the pouches without causing discomfort or embarrassment.

Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Safe Cleaning & Storage of Reused Pouches:
- Wash the pouch thoroughly with warm water and mild soap, then rinse well. Dry the inside with a paper towel or by swishing water, draining, and wiping the outlet.
- Spray the inside and outside with a household antibacterial surface spray (non-bleach) to reduce bacterial growth and odor.
- Ensure the pouch is completely dry before storing it, as moisture can encourage odor and bacteria.
- Storing the dry pouch in a sealed Ziplock bag or airtight container is fine, but be prepared for any remaining odor when opened.
- If the odor persists after washing, the pouch might not be fully clean, so consider discarding it sooner. Many users keep a drainable pouch for 3–4 days without washing it out.

2. Improving Ventilation & Drying:
- Hang pouches in a warm, well-ventilated place or outside in fresh air. Sunlight and airflow help remove residual odor.
- If privacy is a concern, hide the pouch inside a cloth sleeve, like a pillowcase or produce bag, while it dries outdoors.
- A plug-in carbon-filter air purifier can help scrub bathroom air without added fragrance.
- Additional exhaust or window fans, or vent hose kits, can speed up drying and move odor outdoors.

3. Switching to True Drainable/Disposable Use:
- Many people with a Hollister 2-piece system empty the drainable pouch several times a day and keep it attached for 3–4 days, then discard it without washing.
- Three drainable pouches per week is usually adequate; some users need only 5–8 per month.
- Consult a stoma nurse or the supply company, as insurance plans often cover 20 drainable pouches per month when properly coded.

4. Odor Eliminators for the Pouch:
- Hollister M9 Odor Eliminator (drops or spray) is widely praised; add after each empty.
- Coloplast Odor Eliminator spray/pouch products are an alternative brand.
- Plain baking soda inside the pouch is an inexpensive deodorizer.
- Tic Tac mints have been tried by some but were reported ineffective.

5. Room-Air Odor Control:
- Poo-Pourri spray, used in the toilet bowl before emptying, quickly masks odor.
- Ozium air-sanitizing spray removes lingering smells with a small spritz.
- Odo Ban cleaner/deodorizer is a low-scent option for wiping bathroom surfaces.

6. General Tips:
- Use a barrier ring with the Hollister wafer to extend wear time and reduce leaks.
- Empty or “burp” the pouch outdoors or near strong ventilation when possible.
- Dispose of used pouches in scented dog-waste bags before placing them in the trash.
- If odor issues persist, explore colostomy irrigation, which can eliminate pouch wear for 24-48 hours.