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Aug 29, 2010

Managing Waste with a Colostomy Bag While Visiting Friends

This topic is about how to discreetly dispose of two-part colostomy bags when staying overnight with friends, especially when they might not know about your colostomy. Margie, who is two months post-surgery, is looking for advice on how to manage this situation without drawing attention. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:

1. Use small odor-proof liners:
- Consider using standard plastic disposable bags that come with Hollister two-part systems.
- Blue opaque disposal bags are included in every box of Coloplast pouches.
- "Nappy sacks" or diaper bags available in supermarkets and pharmacies can be useful.
- ZipLoc or other resealable storage bags can be bought in bulk or rinsed and reused.
- Ordinary grocery bags can work too, just check for holes first and fold extras for travel.

2. Double-bag for extra security:
- Place the used pouch in the first bag, knot it tightly, then invert it into a second opaque bag and knot again. This method helps ensure no odor or visible contents.

3. Odor control products:
- NA'SCENT liquid deodorizer is preferred by some over Hollister ADAPT and is bactericidal and fragrance-free. Availability in Australia is uncertain.
- Nodor liquid deodorizer is available through Australian Ostomy Associations, with an allowance of two bottles per month.
- Plain baking soda can be sprinkled in the pouch or disposal bag as a cost-effective alternative.

4. Disposal etiquette while visiting:
- Find the outside garbage can yourself and deposit the sealed package directly.
- If your hosts offer to take out the trash, double-bag first to prevent any smell.
- For discretion, tuck the sealed bag in a pocket or waistband and step outside "for a breath of fresh air" before dropping it in the outdoor bin.

5. Tips for hotels and cruises:
- Housekeeping usually empties wastebaskets daily, so you can tie and drop sealed bags in the room bin.
- Bring more supplies than usual, as travel tends to use them up faster.

6. Always keep an ample emergency kit:
- Pack three times your expected daily supplies, extra disposal bags, and odor eliminator. This can help reduce stress when traveling.
See full discusison
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