This topic is about dealing with odors that might come from an ostomy pouch. The person sharing their experience is 90 days post-colostomy and uses a Hollister two-piece pouch with a filter. Despite keeping everything clean and fresh, they often think they smell stool, although their husband doesn't notice any odor. They are curious if other people with ostomies experience these "phantom" smells and are looking for advice on managing any real odors.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. **Aging Pouch/Wafer**:
- Odors can become noticeable as a pouch or wafer nears the end of its wear-time, which is usually between 24 hours and 7 days.
- Warm body heat can speed up bacterial growth, causing the pouch material to smell, especially if the pouches are older or expired.

2. **Micro-leaks & Wafer Seal**:
- A fecal odor without a visible leak might mean there are tiny gas leaks through small perforations under the wafer, which could lead to a full leak soon.
- Make sure the wafer is securely attached. Some people use additional seals like Costa Medical Aqua Seal or Eakin Seals for extra protection.

3. **Filter Issues**:
- Charcoal filters can get clogged with liquid, allowing odors to escape. Changing the pouch or "burping" it to release gas can help.
- Those who use one-piece pouches and change them daily avoid saturated filters but face insurance limits on the number of bags they can use.

4. **Deodorants Inside the Pouch**:
- Products like Bravo, M9, Na’Scent, and Safe & Simple drops are recommended, using 6–10 drops after each emptying.
- Bismuth subgallate tablets can also help but need to be taken with every meal.

5. **Dietary Contributors**:
- Certain foods and supplements, like fish-oil or omega-3 capsules, can cause a distinct odor. Switching to different brands or formulations, such as gummy omega-3, might help.

6. **Appliance Selection**:
- Convatec two-piece systems with built-in paper tape and Coloplast SenSura Mio one-piece systems are praised for odor control when changed frequently.
- Some users find that pouches with double-sided mesh covers trap water and odor; using baby powder between the pouch and skin can reduce this.

7. **Frequency of Changes**:
- Changing the pouch daily after a shower can eliminate most odors for those with high-output ileostomies, but it can be expensive and may irritate the skin. It's important to balance comfort, insurance coverage, and skin health.

8. **Psychological Aspect**:
- Many people with ostomies notice faint odors that others do not. Reassurance from loved ones is helpful, but using deodorants and changing the pouch regularly can boost confidence.

9. **Purchasing Tips**:
- If insurance or suppliers limit quantities, consider buying extras from non-insurance vendors or eBay. You might be able to submit receipts to insurance for partial reimbursement.

10. **Additional Resources**:
- There is a forum thread on odor and filters that might be helpful: https://www.meetanostomate.org/discussion-forum/viewtopic.php?t=5621

These insights and tips can help manage and prevent odors, making life with an ostomy more comfortable and worry-free.