This topic is about finding ways to discreetly and respectfully dispose of closed-end ostomy pouches when visiting friends. The person asking for advice has an ileostomy and prefers using closed-end pouches, which they change twice a day. They are concerned about whether it's okay to leave the sealed disposal bag in their host's bathroom trash and what to do if there's no bin available. Here are some helpful suggestions and insights from others who have faced similar situations:
1. General Disposal Approach
- Many people prefer to place the used pouch, often double-bagged in a dog-waste bag, Zip-Loc, grocery bag, or a scented disposal bag, into the host’s main outdoor trash bin. This helps avoid any odor issues and keeps curious pets away.
- If only an indoor bin is available, double-bagging and tying the bags tightly is recommended. This is often compared to disposing of a baby diaper.
2. Alternative Containment Products
- Ostaway bags, which are black, thick, and zip-lock, are effective for blocking odors.
- Standard Ziploc or grocery bags are affordable and commonly used, though some people mention they might not completely block smells or prevent leaks.
- Ostosolutions Pouch Seals are suggested as a neater, completely odor-proof option before bagging.
- Scented disposal bags that come with some two-piece systems can also help mask odors.
3. Switching or Modifying Pouch Type
- Some suggest trying drainable pouches, which can be emptied and flushed, reducing the need for disposal.
- Colo-Majic flushable liners allow you to flush the liner while keeping the outer pouch, but they should not be used with septic systems.
4. Practical Tips When Away from Home
- Carry a small kit with essentials like a make-up bag, doggy bags, a spare pouch, and wipes.
- Rinse the used pouch with water before bagging to help reduce any smell.
- In public washrooms, place the sealed pouch in a sanitary-napkin receptacle.
- If outdoor disposal is restricted, such as in high-rise buildings where bins are locked at night, keep the sealed pouch in a tied grocery bag and discard it when bins are accessible.
- Use an incontinence pad for bed protection when staying overnight.
- In the UK, many people carry a free RADAR key for easier access to disabled toilets.
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