A bum wiper, often called a toileting aid, is a long-handled device designed to help individuals maintain personal hygiene after using the toilet. Its primary function is to extend the user’s reach, making the wiping process possible for those with limited mobility, flexibility, or dexterity. This includes people recovering from surgery, those with joint pain like arthritis, or individuals with a restricted range of motion. Using this aid promotes independence and dignity by eliminating the need for assistance with a private task.
Selecting the Right Toileting Aid
Choosing the correct toileting aid depends on the user’s specific physical needs and preferences. Aids typically range from 14 to 16 inches long, providing necessary extension without becoming unwieldy. The overall shape is important, as some designs feature a gentle curve that allows the user to reach the perineal area from the front more easily, reducing awkward twisting.
The head mechanism, which secures the paper, varies significantly between models. Some aids use a simple, molded head with a gripping slot that holds the paper by tucking the ends. Other versions use a clamping mechanism, sometimes called a “jaw,” which opens and closes with a button or lever on the handle to secure the paper. Aids are constructed from durable, easy-to-clean materials, such as high-quality plastic or silicone.
Preparing the Wiper for Use
Before using the aid, the toilet tissue must be correctly secured to the head of the device. Start by taking a generous amount of paper, typically four to six sheets, to provide comfortable padding between the skin and the plastic head. For aids with a gripping slot, fold the paper into a strip and tuck one end into the recess.
The remaining paper should be wrapped completely around the head of the device, covering the contact surface. Once wrapped, the loose end of the paper strip is tucked back into the gripping slot, securing the tissue layer firmly. This technique prevents the paper from slipping off during the wiping motion and provides the necessary cushion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wiping
Proper body positioning is the first step, as most users find it easiest to remain seated. The long handle allows the user to reach the target area, and many find approaching between the legs and from the front to be the most efficient method. This forward approach minimizes torso rotation, which can be difficult for individuals with back or hip mobility limitations.
Once positioned, gently lower the aid toward the perineal or anal region and perform a steady, controlled stroke. The wiping motion must always be directed from front to back, especially for female users, to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria and causing a urinary tract infection. Apply gentle but firm pressure, allowing the secured paper to make full contact and effectively collect waste.
After the initial pass, retract the aid and release the soiled paper into the toilet bowl. Repeat the entire process—securing fresh paper, positioning, and wiping—until the paper comes away clean. This repetition ensures thorough hygiene without straining or overreaching.
Cleaning and Disposal
The disposal of soiled paper varies depending on the type of aid used. Aids with a clamping head often feature a hygienic push-button release mechanism near the handle, which opens the clamp and drops the used paper into the toilet bowl. For aids using a tucking slot, the paper is removed by pulling the wiper away and manually nudging the soiled paper off the head with a piece of clean tissue, taking care not to touch the waste.
The toileting aid requires cleaning immediately after use to maintain hygiene standards. Wipe it down with a disposable cloth or tissue and a mild soap and water solution. Manufacturers often recommend avoiding immersion in water, suggesting a sanitizing spray or wipe to clean the head and shaft instead. Store the aid in a clean, dry location, such as a dedicated storage pouch, until its next use.