How to Help Someone Use a Urinal

Helping someone use a urinal may feel a little awkward at first—but with the right mindset, some preparation, and a focus on comfort and dignity, it can become a smooth part of your caregiving routine. Whether you’re assisting a loved one at home, caring for an elderly parent, or helping someone recovering from surgery, this guide will walk you through how to provide support in a calm, respectful, and effective way.

How to Help Someone Use a Male Urinal Bottle

For many caregivers, one of the most common scenarios involves helping someone use a male urinal bottle. These portable urinals are especially helpful for people who are bedridden or have limited mobility and can’t make it to the bathroom safely.

To help someone use a urinal:

1. Wash your hands and make sure the urinal is clean and empty.
   
   

2. Explain what you’re doing to your loved one or patient to make them feel more comfortable.
   
   

3. If they can hold the urinal on their own, hand it to them and give them some privacy if they prefer it.
   
   

4. If they need help, gently assist with positioning the urinal to avoid spills. Place the urinal securely between the legs and ensure the penis is fully inside the opening.
   
   

5. When they’re done, carefully remove the urinal and help with any necessary cleanup using wipes or toilet paper.
   
   

6. Dispose of or clean the urinal right away and wash your hands again.
   
   

Encouraging independence is important, so always offer the chance for your loved one to participate in the process as much as possible. Having incontinence supplies like SPC absorbent pads on hand can also help prevent accidents and keep bedding dry.

Best Tips for Assisting an Elderly Person with a Urinal

Helping an elderly person use a urinal may involve additional considerations. Aging can impact grip strength, balance, and coordination, so a little extra patience goes a long way. One helpful tip is to choose a urinal with an ergonomic handle or spill-proof design, which can make it easier to hold and less likely to cause messes.

Also, be mindful of privacy. Even when someone needs assistance, it’s important to maintain their sense of dignity. Try to cover them with a blanket or sheet while positioning the urinal, and talk them through each step to reduce embarrassment or confusion.

In some cases, seniors may wear incontinence products like SPC reusable underwear or bladder control pads. These products can serve as a backup, helping manage leaks before and after urinal use.

Using a Urinal in Bed: What You Need to Know

Using a urinal in bed can be tricky, but it’s completely manageable with the right approach. Before helping someone use a urinal in bed, make sure they are in a comfortable and slightly upright position—raising the head of the bed or adding pillows under their back can make the process much easier.

Keep these essentials nearby:

• A clean urinal bottle
  
  

• Wipes or tissues
  
  

• Disposable gloves (optional, for hygiene)
  
  

• SPC quilted underpads to protect bedding
  
  

If possible, roll the person slightly to one side to help with urinal placement. Ensure they are steady and comfortable before allowing them to go. Once finished, clean up discreetly and dispose of any waste. Using a urinal in bed can be easier for everyone when you’re organized and keep all supplies within reach.

Supporting Someone with Limited Mobility

When someone has limited mobility—whether due to illness, injury, or a chronic condition—urinal use may be one of the only options for toileting. In these cases, your role becomes even more essential.

Ask the person how they prefer to be helped and what they’re comfortable with. Every individual has different needs—some may want minimal assistance, while others need full help with positioning and cleanup.

To make things easier:

• Use a non-spill urinal or one designed for use in a reclining position.
  
  

• Place SPC incontinence pads under the person in case of accidental leaks.
  
  

• Ensure that the person’s clothing is out of the way before they begin.
  
  

• Help them stay warm and relaxed by using a blanket or towel for privacy.
  
  

Patience and a gentle approach can ease stress and help the person feel more in control of the situation.

Preventing Messes When Using a Bedside Urinal

Bedside urinals are convenient, but without the right setup, spills and messes can happen. To prevent accidents:

• Choose a urinal with a lid or anti-leak valve.
  
  

• Use absorbent underpads like SPC quilted pads beneath the user’s hips.
  
  

• Empty and clean the urinal promptly after each use.
  
  

• Store it within easy reach, ideally on a stable surface to avoid tipping over.
  
  

If your loved one uses the urinal regularly, keep a small cleaning kit nearby with gloves, wipes, and disinfectant for quick and easy cleanup.

At San Pablo Commercial, we're a family-run business dedicated to supporting seniors and caregivers by offering dependable, affordable incontinence supplies. From SPC disposable underpads to reusable underwear and sanitary pads, our range is designed for comfort and confidence. We understand the challenges of managing incontinence and strive to make it easier for you to stay clean, dry, and independent every day.