Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Sponsored by Hollister
Login   |  
Forgot password?
 
Forum
Videos
Reviews
About Us
Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Where Everybody Understands You
41,432 members
Mar 01, 2017

Bag odor driving me mad - any solutions?

The topic at hand is about dealing with persistent odors coming from an ostomy pouch. A new member is experiencing constant smells and is curious if the issue might be with the seal of the pouch. They are looking for practical ways to tackle this problem. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:

1. **Check for Leaks**: Odors often result from a poor seal or a small leak around the wafer. This can happen due to pressure from gas, excess liquid, or even sleeping on the pouch, which might open up gaps.

2. **Consider the System Type**:
- One-piece pouches without a working filter can trap gas, leading to leaks. Many people prefer two-piece systems that allow them to "burp" the pouch.
- Filters can clog quickly and let odors escape, so manually burping the pouch might be more effective.

3. **Evaluate Pouch Brand and Model**: Some brands are better at containing odors. For instance, users of ConvaTec have noticed improvements after switching to Sur-Fit Natura drainable pouches. It might be helpful to contact ConvaTec for samples or advice.

4. **Change Frequency**: Changing the pouch daily can significantly reduce odor buildup, and many find that Medicare covers this.

5. **Use an Extra Barrier**: Placing a thin grocery-store produce bag over the pouch can help isolate odors and also serves as a convenient disposal bag.

6. **Deodorants and Lubricants**: Consider adding products like M9 or Brava Lubricating Deodorant to the pouch. Most companies offer free samples if you request them.

7. **Homemade Rinses**: Rinse the bag at each emptying with solutions like:
- A 50/50 mix of water and mouthwash
- A few Tic-Tac mints dropped into the pouch between rinses

8. **Diet and Supplements**: Be mindful of recent diet changes, as foods like asparagus or fish-oil/omega-3 capsules can cause distinct odors that permeate the plastic.

9. **Contact the Manufacturer**: If the odor persists, reach out to the pouch manufacturer. They might be aware of material or chemistry issues with certain lots and can suggest alternative pouches or send replacements.
See full discusison
Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,432 members.

“Every morning with my coffee, I read here and feel wrapped in warmth - I hardly post, but it still feels like family.”

“Our oncologist literally wrote down the link; they said more patients need this website.”

“This place pulled me out of the dark. I went from lurking to living again.”

“At 3am, someone’s awake somewhere in the world. I’m never alone here.”

Join Free

Popular Topics

New to Colostomy: Can I Eat Popcorn or Mango?
CORTISOL
OH, MY!
New member
A NEW WORD FOR ME
Stealth Belt
Friendship/relationship
Minimizing Stoma Output: What Foods Work for You?
Hydration Challenges After Colon Removal
Dietary Tips for Ileostomy: Success with Berries?

New Topics

Diet Suggestions for Colostomy and Diabetes Management
FNG
Is My Stoma Size Normal After Surgery?
New to MoA
Hows a going yall ...
Fiber Intake with GLP-1s and Ileostomy Concerns
Hi I’m new here
Ileostomy Reversal Journey: My Experience and Hopes
Rugby Player with an Ostomy Aiming for the World Cup
ON KP
About us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Ostomy Blogs | Ostomy Q&A | Guides | Contact Us
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.
Copyright (c) MeetAnOstoMate.org All Rights Reserved
Create Account
Login
↑