How To Empty and Change a Stoma Bag: Step-by-Step Guide

Learning To Manage Your Stoma Bag

If you’re new to life with a stoma, learning how to empty and change your stoma bag can feel overwhelming at first — but it quickly becomes second nature.

Whether you have an ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy, having the right routine helps you stay clean, comfortable, and confident throughout the day.

This easy-to-follow guide walks you through each step, with practical advice and real tips from people who’ve been exactly where you are.

 

🚽 How To Empty a Stoma Bag (Step-by-Step)

Most stoma bags are drainable, meaning you don’t have to replace them every time. Here’s how to empty one safely and discreetly:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before starting.
2. Find a toilet — at home or a disabled toilet with a sink for convenience.
3. Sit or stand comfortably (many prefer sitting for better control).
4. Unclip or open the outlet at the bottom of your bag.
5. Gently drain the contents into the toilet.
6. Wipe the outlet clean using toilet tissue or a disposable wipe.
7. Close and reseal the outlet securely.
8. Wash your hands again and check your adhesive seal looks good.

💡 Tip: Empty your bag when it’s about one-third full to prevent bulging and leaks.

 

🧼 How To Change a Stoma Bag (Step-by-Step)

You’ll usually change your bag every 1–3 days, depending on the type you use. Follow these steps for a clean, comfortable change:

1. Gather your supplies: a clean stoma bag, wipes, adhesive remover (if needed), disposal bag, and tissue.
2. Wash your hands.
3. Gently remove your old bag, peeling from top to bottom while supporting your skin.
4. Clean around your stoma using warm water and a soft cloth or wipe — avoid soap with oils or fragrance.
5. Pat the area dry before applying a new bag.
6. Check your stoma and skin. It should look pink and moist. If you see redness or soreness, contact your stoma nurse.
7. Measure your stoma if it’s still healing, and cut the new bag opening to fit snugly.
8. Remove backing paper and apply the new bag, pressing gently for 30–60 seconds to ensure a secure seal.
9. Dispose of the old bag discreetly in a sealable waste bag.
10. Wash your hands again.

💡 Extra Tip: Changing your bag after a meal may increase output, so try doing it first thing in the morning or before eating.

🩹 Helpful Tips for a Smooth Routine

• Always empty your bag before sleeping or exercising.
• Avoid rushing — a calm routine prevents leaks and irritation.
• Keep spare supplies in your car, bag, or workplace.
• Use stoma bag covers for comfort, style, and added confidence — they’re soft against your skin and reduce noise or sweating.

👉 Shop our full range of stoma bag covers for ileostomy, colostomy, and urostomy users. Each one is designed to make daily life easier, softer, and more stylish.

 

💬 What About Different Types of Stomas?

• Ileostomy: Output is often more liquid, so empty your bag more frequently.
• Colostomy: Output is thicker, so emptying may be less frequent.
• Urostomy: You’ll drain urine, often using a night drainage bag for convenience.

Your stoma nurse will recommend the best bag type and routine for your lifestyle — but the general process stays the same.

 

🌟 Confidence Comes With Practice

Changing and emptying your stoma bag might seem intimidating at first, but soon it will be as routine as brushing your teeth. The more you do it, the more confident and independent you’ll feel.

At Stoma Styles, we’re here to make every part of stoma life more comfortable — from helpful guides like this to soft, breathable covers that add comfort and personality to your day.

Because confidence isn’t just about your bag — it’s about how you feel wearing it.