How to Clean Foley Catheter Leg Bags with Vinegar

Foley catheters, or indwelling catheters, are rubber tubes that are inserted into the bladder in order to drain urine out of the body. Once the catheter is inserted into the bladder, a small balloon on the tip is inflated to hold it in place. A sterile bag is connected at the other end to collect and hold the urine. Cleaning the Foley catheter daily is necessary to prevent infection and the spread of bacteria. Cleaning the leg bags can be accomplished with common household products such as vinegar.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Soap
• White vinegar
• Soft cloth(s)
• Clamp

Instructions

1. Wash hands with soap and water. Dry with a clean towel.

2. Clamp the Foley catheter tube near where the urine bag is connected to the tubing.

3. Remove the old bag and connect a new urine bag to the tubing. Unclamp the tubing.

4. Rinse the old bag with warm water and empty it. Combine two parts vinegar with three parts water and pour into the bag. Allow to sit for 20 minutes and then empty and rinse the bag. Allow to dry fully.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your care provider with any questions about the use or maintenance of Foley catheters.

References

• Drugs.com: How to Care for Your Foley Catheter