The basic process: empty, disconnect, replace
Changing a Foley catheter bag means removing the full bag from the catheter tube and attaching a clean one in its place. You do this by emptying the bag first, then unclipping or unscrewing the connector where the bag attaches to the catheter, and sliding a new bag onto that same connector. The whole task takes about five minutes and you can do it at home without calling a nurse, though your doctor or home care provider should show you the first time.
You will need a new drainage bag (the same type your current one is), a small container to catch any spill, paper towels, and hand sanitizer or soap and water. Some people also keep a waterproof pad under the work area. The catheter itself stays in place—you are only changing what hangs below it.
Key Takeaways
- Empty the bag completely into a toilet or container before you disconnect it, so urine does not spill on you or your floor.
- Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before and after the change.
- The connector at the bottom of the bag either clips off or unscrews—check your bag type so you know which motion to use.
- Slide the new bag onto the connector firmly until it clicks or seats completely, then open the drain valve to make sure urine flows into it.
- If you see blood in the urine, cloudiness, or smell an odor, contact your doctor before your next scheduled change.
Gather your supplies before you start
Set up a clean, well-lit space—your bathroom or bedroom works fine. Lay out the new bag, paper towels, and your container for spill. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer if soap is not available. If you have a waterproof pad, place it under the catheter and bag to protect your clothes or bedding.
Check that the new bag is the same type as your old one. Foley bags come in two main styles: a leg bag (smaller, straps to your thigh or calf) and a night bag or bedside bag (larger, sits on the floor or hangs from the bed). Using the wrong type can cause the connector to not fit properly.
Empty the full bag completely
Locate the drain valve or spout at the very bottom of the bag. This is usually a small plastic lever or twist cap. Hold your container underneath it and open the valve fully. Let all the urine drain out—do not leave any liquid in the bag, because it will spill when you disconnect it.
Once the bag is empty, close the drain valve again. Wipe the outside of the bag and the area around the connector with a paper towel to remove any moisture or drips. This keeps your hands clean for the next step.
Disconnect the old bag from the catheter tube
Look at where the bag connects to the catheter tube. There are two common connector types: a push-clip that you squeeze and pull, or a threaded connector that you twist counterclockwise. Your nurse or home care provider should have told you which type yours is, but if you are unsure, try the squeeze-and-pull motion first—most modern bags use a clip.
Hold the catheter tube steady with one hand so you do not accidentally tug on the catheter itself (which sits inside your body). With your other hand, disconnect the bag using the correct motion. A small amount of urine may drip from the tube, so keep a paper towel ready. Do not let the open end of the catheter tube touch anything unclean.
Attach the new bag to the catheter tube
Pick up the new bag and locate its connector—the part that will slide onto the catheter tube. Line it up with the open end of the catheter tube and push it on firmly. You should hear a click or feel it seat completely. If it uses a threaded connector, twist it clockwise until it is snug, but do not force it.
Once the bag is attached, open the drain valve at the bottom to allow urine to flow in. Watch for a moment to confirm that urine is draining into the new bag. If nothing flows after 30 seconds, the connector may not be seated properly—disconnect and try again.
Check for leaks and proper drainage
Inspect the connection point where the bag meets the catheter tube. There should be no drips or moisture around the connector. If you see leaking, disconnect the bag and reattach it, making sure it clicks or seats fully.
Make sure the bag is positioned so urine can flow downward into it. If you are using a leg bag, find the straps around your thigh or calf so the bag does not pull on the catheter. If you are using a night bag, hang it from the bed frame or place it on the floor below the level of your bladder—never let the bag sit higher than the catheter, because urine can flow backward and cause infection.
Wash your hands and dispose of the old bag
Wash your hands again with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This removes any urine or bacteria you may have touched during the change.
Place the old bag in a plastic bag or container for disposal. Most areas allow you to throw it in the regular trash, but check with your local waste management or your home care provider if you are unsure. Do not pour urine down the sink unless your provider has told you it is safe to do so—some areas have restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change the bag?
Leg bags are usually changed every 5 to 7 days, and night bags every 7 to 10 days. Your doctor or home care nurse will give you a specific schedule based on your situation. Some people change bags more often if they notice cloudiness, odor, or leaking.
What if urine leaks when I disconnect the bag?
A small drip is normal. Keep paper towels ready and work over a container. If a large amount leaks, you may not have emptied the bag fully before disconnecting. Next time, make sure the drain valve is open all the way and wait until no more urine comes out.
Can I reuse the old bag?
No. Foley bags are single-use and should be thrown away after each change. Reusing a bag increases the risk of infection and the bag may not seal properly after being disconnected and reconnected.
What should I do if the connector does not fit the new bag?
Stop and contact your home care provider or doctor. Using the wrong bag type or a damaged connector can cause leaks or allow bacteria to enter the catheter. Do not force a connector that does not fit.
Is it normal to see blood in the urine after changing the bag?
A small amount of blood or pink-tinged urine can happen if the catheter irritates the bladder during the change. If the blood is heavy, persistent, or accompanied by pain, fever, or cloudy urine, contact your doctor before your next change.