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Caring for continence products
All incontinence products should tell you how to wash them hygienically or how to get rid of them on the product or its packaging. Follow these instructions carefully at all times.
Reusable absorbent products
All products should tell you how to wash them. Follow this carefully, as the absorbency of the product may be changed if it is washed or dried using the wrong temperatures or washing products. The following points are a general guide only.
Washing the product before use is a good idea. Fabric often has chemicals in it that keep the materials in shape while they are being made. These may cause skin problems or change how absorbent the product is. The best washing temperatures may vary for different products. High heat may make them shrink or products with a waterproof barrier may not be able to handle higher temperatures. Bedding products will need a large capacity machine, as they soak up a lot of water and are heavy when wet.
Use the right washing detergent, particularly with loss of bowel control. This will lessen the risk of infection and bad smells. Products made for washing nappies are often the best; again, see what the supplier or manufacturer says is best. Bleach may be used for some products. The manufacturer should let you know what type and how much bleach to use. Do not use bleach if in doubt. Fabric softeners may greatly reduce how absorbent the product is so they should not be used.
Be careful with drying temperatures and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Tumble-drying is often okay, but you should not over dry or use high temperatures.
Air-drying is preferable in most cases (when possible) without putting it in direct heat. Ironing and dry-cleaning are usually not okay.
Reusable collection devices and their accessories
Where the manufacturer says that the product is for single use only, only use it once. You may not be able to clean the product well enough for safe re-use. Be very careful about this, particularly when products are being inserted into the body, like catheters. Some products such as leg bags may be emptied and used again, but make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions. Contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for advice, or your local continence service.
This information is adapted from material developed for the Australia Government by Flinders Consulting Pty Ltd. Original authors were Sandra Dunn, Jan Paterson, Inge Kowanko, Rae Winter, Leigh Pretty, Rosalie Donhardt and Irene Stein.
Page last updated 20 Nov 2006