This topic is about the safety and hygiene of reusing closed-end ostomy bags by rinsing them out. The person who started the discussion is curious if this practice is safe, as they have heard that rinsing drainable bags might weaken the seams and are unsure if the same applies to closed-end pouches.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Closed-end pouches are meant for single use. Rinsing and reusing them can lead to bacterial growth and increase the risk of infection.

2. Some people occasionally rinse a pouch while it is still attached and then discard it during the normal appliance change. This practice does not seem to weaken the seams if done gently and infrequently.

3. If you want to reuse a pouch regularly, consider switching to a drainable pouch. Some suggestions include:
- Coloplast Sensura Mio One-Piece Drainable Convex, which fits uneven skin and can be folded and secured with built-in Velcro to reduce its profile.
- Wearing the drainable pouch sideways or diagonally to keep it shorter and emptying it frequently to maintain a flat appearance.

4. For those who are short-waisted and seek discretion during the day:
- Empty drainable bags more often to keep them flat.
- Wear a snug tank top, ostomy belt, or flange extenders to hold the pouch close to the body.
- Consider using pediatric (kid-sized) pouches for a shorter length.

5. To manage excessive gas:
- Avoid habits that cause air swallowing, such as talking while eating, using straws, chewing gum, smoking, gulping drinks, and eating hard candies.
- Try having smaller, more frequent meals and adjust the dosage of Beano.

6. For skin protection, consider using barrier rings, flange extenders, thin elastic belts from manufacturers, and hernia-prevention belts with carefully cut openings.

7. Usage patterns shared by others include:
- Closed-end 2-piece users typically change 1–2 bags per day and the flange every 3–4 days.
- Some one-piece drainable users can go 3–4 days without leaks before needing a full system change.

8. One person mentioned that occasionally rinsing a closed pouch while traveling did not cause any problems, but they found it too messy for everyday use.

9. If the only issue with a drainable pouch is its bulky length, some shorter users (5′–5′2″) have had success by folding or positioning the pouch creatively and using clothing layers for concealment.