About the disposal of continence products

This page is designed to give information about the safe disposal of continence products:

• catheters
• catheter bags and valves
• anal plugs
• sheaths
• products used for bowel care
• stoma pouches.

How to dispose of continence products safety

• Always ensure your waste products are double bagged (wrapped), for example, first in a small plastic bag (purchase nappy sacks or save carrier bags) then place into your black dustbin bag
• Always empty catheter bag and stoma pouch contents into the toilet before disposal
• Always flush hard faeces down the toilet wherever possible
• Never flush disposable pads down the toilet
• Never flush wet wipes down the toilet

Clinical waste collection

If you have an ongoing infection effecting your bladder and bowels you will need a clinical waste collection bin. This will help reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Please speak to your nurse for advice.

Please contact the council for a clinical waste bin on:

• Phone: 0113 2224 406
• Visit the Leeds Council website

Please note that Leeds City Council will no longer provide clinical waste bins for continence pads or pants disposal.

You must double wrap them and place them in your black bin.
You can contact the council on the number above to request a second bin at an additional cost.

Collection will be weekly.

Hand Hygiene

• Wash hands with soap and water after touching used products
• Wet wipes or an alcohol hand cleanser may be used if running water is not available. However, these methods are not as effective as cleaning your hands with soap and water.