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Nov 19, 2025

Emptying the Pouch: Best Positions?

This topic is all about finding the best way to empty a drainable ostomy pouch without making a mess. People have shared their experiences and tips on different positions and techniques to make the process easier and cleaner. Here are some helpful insights:

1. **Positions & Techniques**
- Kneeling in front of the toilet is a popular choice. Many use a garden knee pad or cushion for comfort.
- Sitting on the toilet can work too. You can sit as far back as possible, sit backward, or even side-saddle to create more space.
- Some prefer standing, either facing or straddling the bowl. To reduce splashing, you can line the bowl with toilet paper first.
- Using an external container like a Tupperware bowl or a disposable baggie can be helpful, especially for those with back issues or high stomas.
- In public toilets, many avoid kneeling and instead stand or squat. Cover the seat with paper for hygiene and deal with self-flushing sensors by covering them.
- On airplanes, some people hold it, while others use a container method in the small lavatory.

2. **Splash & Odor Control**
- Placing a few squares of toilet paper on the water before emptying can help control splashing.
- Flushing before, during, and after emptying can minimize both splash and odor.
- Toilets with low water levels or elongated bowls tend to splash less.
- Products like the "Stoma Mudguard" and IGGIE clip can offer extra control.
- To mask the noise of Velcro, you can cough, run water, or double-flush.

3. **Rinsing / Cleaning the Pouch**
- A handheld bidet sprayer attached to the toilet or a small watering can can be useful for rinsing.
- After draining, pour warm water into the pouch, massage, and drain until clear. Finish with deodorizer drops or lubricant.
- Campers sometimes use a shopping bag lined with napkins to manage waste.

4. **Comfort Aids & Furniture**
- A shower stool, bath chair, or adjustable folding stool can make the process more comfortable.
- A portable stool with a carry strap is handy for public restrooms.
- Knee pads or gardening cushions can protect your knees if you kneel frequently.

5. **Personal Factors**
- Your stoma height, body height, flexibility, and any physical discomforts will influence your choice of position. It's important to experiment to find what works best for you.
- Closed-end pouches can be easier for high stomas, and urostomy bags are often emptied while standing.

6. **Key Products & Brands Mentioned**
- Toto and Kohler elongated toilets are noted for their design.
- Hollister closed-end pouches and M9 deodorizer drops are popular.
- The "Stoma Mudguard" and IGGIE clip are mentioned for added control.

Overall, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. It's about trying different methods and using whatever combination of tools and techniques makes the process clean and stress-free for you.
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