This topic is all about finding practical ways to manage the challenges of changing and emptying an ostomy pouch, as well as controlling any odors that might arise. Here are some helpful tips and product suggestions shared by others who have been through similar experiences:

- General emptying position & splash control:
- Many people find it helpful to sit on the toilet and face the tank for a wider target, which can help reduce splashing.
- Placing a few sheets of toilet paper in the water before emptying can also help.
- Keep the pouch opening pinched or folded outward like a "shirt-sleeve" to direct the flow, and then wipe the spout inside and out with folded tissue.

- Full change routine (step-by-step ideas):
- Use a soapy washcloth or a perfume-/oil-free wet wipe between the wafer and skin, starting at the top and working around the stoma.
- Finish with Sensi-Care adhesive remover wipes to ensure no residue remains.
- Pat the area completely dry and heat the wafer with your hands for 30-60 seconds after applying for a better seal, especially with wax-based rings.
- Keep extra tissue on the sink to catch any surprise output and clean up afterward with a disinfecting wipe.
- Some people double-clip drainable bags for added security.

- Skin protection & seal enhancement:
- Use Sensi-Care skin-barrier wipes, barrier strips rolled into a custom "donut," or lightly dust Stomahesive powder, brushing off the excess with tissue.
- Make sure the skin is completely dry before applying powder. Combining a wipe and powder can provide longer wear, with some reporting up to 5+ days.

- Odor eliminators used inside the pouch:
- Adapt Lubricating Deodorant: Use 1 sachet or 1 tablespoon, often combined with 20 drops of M9 for stronger control, as 4-12 drops may not be enough.
- Brava Deodorant has a pleasant scent and helps, though it may not be perfect.
- A DIY option is using mouthwash plus 4-5 white Tic-Tac mints, which is affordable and lasts all day.
- A baby-oil and warm-water flush (half-full pouch, swish, drain) once daily can leave a "baby-fresh" smell and cleaner pouch walls.
- Stop Plus drops and Adapt packets are also mentioned, with larger doses being more effective.

- External room/disposal odor control:
- Lighting a match immediately after emptying can help.
- Febreze Odor Eliminator spray or small Febreze "space" packs in a Diaper Genie used-pouch container can be useful.
- Scented candles or wax melts can help somewhat, and products from www.poopourri.com offer temporary coverage.

- Other practical tips:
- Diet plays a significant role in odor; certain foods like fish can worsen the smell.
- Keep a folded tissue "collar" around the stoma while drying to prevent spurts.
- Using heat, like a hair dryer or warm hands, can improve the adhesion of wax rings and wafers.
- For cleaning, use unscented washcloths, warm soapy water, or baby wipes, and avoid soaps with oil or perfume.

These tips and product suggestions come from a variety of sources, including Convatec, Hollister, Coloplast, Sensi-Care wipes, Stomahesive powder, Adapt Lubricating Deodorant, M-9 drops, Brava Deodorant, Stop Plus drops, Febreze, Diaper Genie, Poopourri, Tic-Tac mints, and Clorox wipes.