Storing disposable pads

• These are usually supplied in vacuum packaging. The pads are compressed to reduce their size for transportation and storage. Some are more compressed than others. If you have very little space or are travelling, look for products with the most compressed packaging.
• Pads should be stored in a dry environment as they could absorb moisture from the atmosphere reducing their effectiveness when used.
• When possible, keep disposable pads in the packaging until you are ready to use them.
• Pads are usually folded in the packaging in a way that, when they are opened, they are shaped conveniently for putting on.

Disposing of disposable pads

• Disposable pads are not designed to be re-used! Although there may be a temptation to dry and re-use them, they are unlikely to be as effective and may start to smell. They are also made from flammable materials and should not be placed near heat sources for drying.
• Used pads should be folded up and placed in a plastic bag for disposal. If possible use two bags (double bagging) for additional security especially if there is stool in the pad.
• Solid stool can be put into the toilet. However, even small pads should not be put in flushable toilets. The super absorbent gel will swell up and the toilet could become blocked.
• If you have a refuse collection service, you may wish to check their recommendations about pad disposal. This is particularly so if you have large quantities of pads to throw away which may attract the attention of refuse collectors.

Washable pads

• Please refer to product manufacturers instructions for washing and drying their products.
• Washable pads and pants can be stored in the same way as your usual underwear.

Male devices, female devices and faecal devices

• Reusable devices should be washed with soapy water and dried after use. They should be stored so they won’t get damaged, for example in a plastic container and in a convenient place for you.
• Devices that use glue to stick them to the skin should be stored in a cool area away from radiators or other heat sources. Otherwise, the glue may melt and you will find it difficult to, for example, roll open a sheath or remove the backing from a sticky patch.
• Disposable items can be disposed of as for pads.

Catheters and drainage bags

• Catheters are usually supplied in boxes of 10, 25 or 30 items.
• Whenever possible they should be kept flat in the box until use.
• Catheters are supplied sterile within their packaging. Check the packaging before you use each catheter and avoid using catheters where the packaging is damaged as they may no longer be sterile.
• The above also applies to drainage bags when they are being connected to an indwelling catheter.
• Catheters should not be stored in direct sunlight; some coated catheters are packaged in opaque packaging.
• Catheters have a shelf life and should not be used beyond that date.
• Catheters and drainage bags should be rinsed through with soapy water and placed in a plastic bag (or two!) for disposal.
• Drainage bags that are for use with male appliances can be washed through with soapy water and stored for reuse, for example, a night drainage bag and stand could be stored in the bath.