FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do disposable wipes clog plumbing?
Disposable wipes are not intended to be flushed and yes, they can clog the plumbing system. Unless the wipes are specifically intended to be flushed, do not assume your incontinence wipes are flushable. If they are, it will be clearly indicated on the product label. Flushing incontinence wipes or baby wipes down the toilet can cause blockage and require a plumber to fix. In some cases, it can even be a pretty costly repair. To prevent such an issue, never flush your incontinence wipes. Instead, dispose of them in the trash or in a leakproof, odor-proof trash bag to keep your home garbage from developing unpleasant smells.
What are the best wipes for incontinence?
The best wipes for incontinence are those that thoroughly clean the skin without causing damage or irritation. Wipes infused with healing agents, like AloeTouch Wipes are designed to rehydrate and repair the skin while cleaning it. Baby wipes can also be used as they are designed to be extra gentle for a baby’s delicate skin. They can cleanse away fecal matter and urine without damaging the skin or causing rashes or other irritations. It’s important to rub gently so as not to irritate the skin unnecessarily. Keeping the skin clean will reduce the likelihood of developing infection and will make urinary and bowel incontinence more manageable and less uncomfortable for the patient.
What is the difference between baby wipes and incontinence wipes?
Baby wipes are designed for babies but essentially, they are no different than incontinence wipes. They are all formulated to be gentle on the skin while remaining strong enough to clean, disinfect, and protect skin from infection. They are perhaps marketed differently, but they both contain the same hypoallergenic ingredients and are intended for the same purpose. The most important thing to look for when choosing wipes for babies or adults suffering from incontinence is durability, hypoallergenic ingredients, and moisturizing or reparative ingredients to protect and heal the skin.
How do you use incontinence wipes?
Incontinence wipes are used to clean the genitals when patients suffer from urinary or fecal incontinence. Similar to baby wipes, incontinence wipes clean traces of both urine and fecal matter and add moisture to the skin to protect it from irritation. Incontinence wipes and washcloths are strong and durable but are also very gentle on the skin. For example, Aloe touch wipes are infused with soothing aloe vera to help heal and repair cracked or damaged skin quickly and painlessly.
When using pre-moistened incontinence wipes, do not rub vigorously. Instead, clean the area slowly and carefully using a light, circular motion until all urine or fecal matter is removed. This method will not only thoroughly cleanse and hydrate the skin clean, but it will also minimize the risk of developing skin irritations and infections.
Can I reuse disposable washcloths?
No, reusing disposable washcloths is not recommended. Disposable washcloths are made of a hypoallergenic, woven fabric that is sure to be gentle on all areas of the body including the sensitive areas associated with urinary and fecal incontinence. Disposable washcloths are not intended for repeat use as reusing them can increase the chance of spreading bacteria causing skin irritations and infections. Upon using any incontinence washcloth or wipe, discard appropriately in a proper trash receptacle. If you prefer not to waste, use a washable fabric washcloth that can be laundered and disinfected. Never use a dirty washcloth to clean a patient with bowel incontinence.
How do I dispose of incontinence wipes and washcloths?
Disposable incontinence wipes and adult disposable washcloths should be disposed of in a trash bag. Do not place these disposable wipes or washcloths in the recycling or compost bins and never flush them down the toilet. To prevent your garbage from developing an unpleasant odor, you can buy odor-proof bags to store used cloths. Seal the bag tightly and toss it in the trash bin. The odor-proof bags will hold in the smell so even if your city garbage collector isn’t passing by for another few days, you won’t be stuck with a stinky bin.
MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER
The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, charts, and any other material on this site, is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified medical professional about your condition or circumstances before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.