JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

20% off your first Autoship!*

Commode Liners and Bags

Bedside commodes include a pail that holds urine and feces. Waste falls directly into the pail, which can make cleaning it an unpleasant task. It is also more likely to spill. Commode Liners keep everything neatly contained and make cleanup faster and more hygienic. The liners are polymer bags that fit into a commode pail, creating a barrier between the pail and the waste. There are multiple sizes to fit standard or elongated commodes, and most have some form of handle or pull tie that makes changing and cleanup efficient and mess-free. The disposable commode liners have a gelling agent in the form of a powder coating or an absorbent pad that reduces splashing and neutralizes unpleasant odors.

Bedside Commode Liners

Finding the Right Liner

Using a commode liner has a variety of benefits, but it's important to figure out which benefits are necessary. Factors to consider include, but are not limited to:

Volume
Closures
Odor neutralization
Spill prevention
Fit

Volume

Liners come in a variety of volumes ranging from 16 ounces all the way up to 64 ounces. The size chosen should reflect the size of the commode pail.

Closures

When the commode liner bags need to be changed, convenient handles or drawstring closures let caregivers remove the waste without risking exposure, making the process more sanitary all around. After the liner has been used, it can easily be disposed of with household trash.

Odor Neutralization

The same agent that turns fluids into gel also helps to trap unpleasant odors.

An image of a commode liner in the commode pail.

An image of a commode liner in the commode pail.

Spill Prevention

Commode bags are leak-proof in order to keep waste inside. Some, like the Sani-Bag+ Liners, have a specific powder coating that reduce splashing. It reduces the possibility of splashes and minimizes additional cleanup. Some, like the Medline Commode Liner, have a super-absorbent pad or gel capsule that turns liquid waste to gel in seconds.

Fit

While most liners can be used with any commode pail, some, like the Carebag Commode Liner, will only fit standard commode pails. Others, like the Vive Health Commode Liners, are truly universal and can fit on any standard or elongated bedside commode.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How is a commode liner different from a trash bag?
The liners are specifically designed to be leak-proof. Most of them have pads, capsules, or powder that turns liquid to solid upon contact in order for easy cleanup. A trash bag has none of these features.

Can liners be flushed?
No. Tie the liner closed using the handles or ties and dispose of it properly.

Can liners be emptied and reused?
No.

How do I dispose of the liners?
Unless instructed otherwise, these liners can be thrown away like normal trash. Be sure to completely seal the liner first to avoid spills.

Do I still need to add water to the commode liner?
No.

Do all commode liners have gelling agents or absorbent pads?
No. Some, like the Carex Commode Liners, have a powder coating but do not turn fluids into gel. The product information will specificy if a gel capsule or absorbent pad is present.

How often do liners need to be changed?
If they have no gelling agents, a liner should be changed every four to five hours.

How many times can a liner be used before it needs to be thrown away?
That depends on the liner, but typically one to three times.