How to help someone use a urinal in bed
- Gather the supplies. You will need a urinal, gloves, and toilet paper or wet wipes. Make sure you have a place to set the urinal aside while you help with wiping or getting dressed.
- Wash and dry your hands well, and put on gloves. Have the person you're caring for lower or unzip their pants. Offer help if needed.
- Ask the person to position the urinal so urine will flow into it. If needed, help them spread their legs and position the urinal. If the person needs help, hold the urinal in place while they urinate.
- Cover the person with a sheet or blanket for privacy, if possible. If you can leave them alone safely, leave the room to give more privacy.
- When the person is done urinating, carefully remove the urinal.
- Help the person wipe if needed. If wiping the vulva, be sure to wipe from front to back. If you use a wet wipe or a washcloth, dry the area between the person's legs after wiping.
- Empty the urinal into the toilet.
- Rinse and wash the urinal using a disinfectant diluted with water. Dry the urinal or let it air-dry.
- Take off your gloves and throw them away. Wash your hands again with soap and water.
Current as of: May 1, 2026
Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
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