This topic is about exploring the option of colostomy irrigation and using stoma caps. The person is looking for advice on whether these methods are beneficial and practical for managing a permanent colostomy.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Benefits of Colostomy Irrigation:
- It can provide up to 24–60 hours of "poo-free" time, which means less frequent pouch emptying, fewer leaks, and no urgent need to find a toilet.
- Many people experience greater freedom, confidence, and reduced anxiety when they are out and about.
- There is less wear and tear on appliances, and it can improve the health of the skin around the stoma since wafers and pouches are changed less often.

2. Routine and Time Commitment:
- Most people irrigate once a day at the same time, though some have successfully moved to every other day.
- A typical irrigation session takes about 45–60 minutes, with an additional 1–2 hours of passive waiting for any residual output. This waiting time can be spent relaxing or even overnight with a pouch or sleeve for safety.

3. Learning Curve and Eligibility:
- The colon needs to be "trained," which can take a few weeks of adjustment.
- Not everyone is a candidate for irrigation, such as those with certain types of colostomy or motility issues. It's important to check with a healthcare professional like a surgeon, GI physician, or ostomy nurse before starting.
- It's important to relax, allow the water to enter slowly, and keep the process consistent for the best results.

4. Product Advice and Samples:
- You can request free samples of irrigation kits and stoma caps from major suppliers like Convatec, Coloplast, and Hollister.
- Two-piece systems are not interchangeable across brands, so it's best to choose one brand to ensure compatibility of pouches, irrigation sleeves, and caps.
- Some users have reported success with specific systems, such as the Convatec two-piece system and the Coloplast Click two-piece system, which allows switching between a full pouch and a stoma cap.
- Accessories like irrigation sleeves (which can be converted into overnight bags) and stoma plugs (an alternative to caps for mucus protection) are also mentioned.

5. Typical Results:
- Some people describe their experience as "one hour for 23 free," meaning about 23 hours without output.
- Depending on diet, some achieve 36–60 hours stool-free.
- A newcomer reported their first successful no-output day after just one month of training.

6. Community Resources:
- A forum thread titled "Irrigation by Shitt Happens" is recommended as a helpful how-to reference.
- Several community members are willing to offer personal guidance once someone decides to start irrigation.