This topic is about how to properly dispose of full closed-end ostomy pouches. If you're using these types of pouches, you might be wondering about the best way to handle them once they're full. Here are some helpful tips and insights from others who have experience with this:
1. Bag-and-bin routine (most common method):
- Place the used pouch directly into a small plastic bag, seal or tie it, and then drop it into a Diaper Genie diaper-pail. You can empty the pail on your regular garbage day.
- Wrapping the pouch in a paper towel before placing it in the pail can provide an extra barrier against odors.
2. Types of small bags people use:
- Mini black dog-waste bags from Canadian dollar stores. The adhesive coupling on the pouch can stick to the inside of the bag to self-seal.
- "Poopy Sac" black, vanilla-scented dog-waste bags. These are thin, biodegradable, and flushable, costing about 1.5 cents each.
- Gallon-size Ziploc freezer bags.
- Blue disposal bags that come inside each box of Hollister pouches. Some people double-bag to better block odors.
- Commercial ostomy trash bags like "Bag-It-Away," especially useful when the pouch is bulky.
3. Toilet first, trash second (less common method):
- Empty the stool into the toilet, then fold the pouch so its adhesive flange sticks to itself. Place it in a dog-waste or disposal bag and throw it away.
4. Direct-flush method (used with certain dog-waste bags):
- Some flushable doggy bags can be dropped straight into the toilet with the sealed pouch inside. This works well with municipal systems but is not recommended for septic tanks.
5. Equipment mentioned:
- A Diaper Genie diaper-pail is suggested for odor-free interim storage and is available at Walmart and other retailers.
6. Cost & convenience notes:
- Dollar-store dog-waste bags are much cheaper (about 1.5 cents each) compared to commercial ostomy disposal bags (about 20 cents each).
- Flushable dog-waste bags can eliminate the need for a diaper pail, but their suitability depends on your plumbing system.
7. Alternative product question:
- Some people suggest switching to a drainable pouch, which can be emptied and reused, potentially reducing disposal issues. However, there was no follow-up from the original poster on this option.
See full discusison