This topic is about finding a reliable ileostomy pouch with a Velcro closure. The person sharing their experience has been using an ileostomy pouch for three years and is 80 years old. They tried a specific Convatec pouch with a Velcro fold-up drain but experienced leaks, which was disappointing since they had a similar issue a year ago. Their usual pouch doesn't have this problem. After reporting the issue, they were informed it might be due to a defective batch. They also discovered that not all pouches have the outer tape border they thought was standard. They are generally free of leaks or skin irritation but are still searching for a pouch that meets all their needs, especially one with a roll-up Velcro drain instead of a clamp. Convatec, through their supplier, is sending alternative samples for them to try.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Many people with ostomies feel they have to compromise because no single pouch meets all their needs. Keep trying different products until you find the best fit for you.

2. Hollister products are often mentioned as reliable alternatives that don't leak:
- Hollister 2-piece wafer/bag systems with cloth backing.
- Hollister roll-up drainable bags used with 1½-inch barrier (wax) rings.

3. Tips for using barrier rings:
- You can cut the wafer opening slightly larger than the stoma and use rings to fill any gaps for a better seal.
- If your skin is uneven, like having a dip beside the stoma, cut a second ring in half and stack it to level the surface.

4. Keeping the output more liquid, if comfortable, can reduce abdominal pain and help maintain a 7-day wear time without leaks.

5. Taking a bagless shower, even for a few minutes, gives your peristomal skin a break from adhesives and helps keep it healthy. Many people with ostomies recommend this, although it's not often mentioned by clinicians.

6. Cloth-edged flanges are preferred by several users, as plain hydrocolloid borders can feel irritating.

7. If your current system works well and your skin stays healthy, be cautious about switching, even if another pouch has appealing features.

8. Customer service experiences can vary. Some have had issues with Convatec wafers causing itching and folliculitis and found the customer service unhelpful, while others have praised 180 Medical for their prompt nurse support and follow-up calls.