This article sharing Hollister Ostomy bag problems is not meant to criticize Hollister as a company, nor to make claims about their manufacturing processes as I have no idea what the heck is actually going on over there. Instead, it is a personal account of what I’ve experienced recently, supported by publicly shared user feedback, in hopes of helping others who may be facing similar issues.
For years, Hollister ostomy bags were trusted by many in the ostomy community, including myself. Their products were reliable, discreet, and consistent qualities that matter when you rely on an appliance every hour of every day.
Recently, however, I began experiencing unexpected Hollister Ostomy bag problems: early leaks, weaker closures, increased odor, and significant changes in material quality. After troubleshooting, I started researching what other users were experiencing and discovered similar concerns being shared across the ostomy community.
Why This Matters for Ostomates
When an ostomy product changes, even slightly, it can impact ostomates in a variety of ways including the following:
- Skin health
- Leak protection
- Daily comfort
- Confidence outside the home
- Sleep quality
- Overall quality of life
Because of the impact these issues can have, it’s important to document what users are noticing and offer practical adaptation tips until solutions improve.
Helpful Guide: Ostomy Bag Leaks & How to Prevent Them
Common Issues Ostomates Are Reporting With Hollister Bags
Based on personal experience and community feedback, these are the most frequently discussed concerns and Hollister ostomy bag problems reported.
1. Material Changes and Reduced Durability
Many long-time Hollister users have reported that recent pouches feel thinner or more plastic-like than before. This change appears to affect:
Pouch Strength
Several users, myself included, have seen:
- Early wear
- Tiny tears
- Pinhole leaks
- Unexpected material breakdown within 1–3 days
- Faulty Velcro adhesive
Noise and Discretion
Multiple users describe the material as “crinkly” or noticeably louder under clothing, which can impact privacy and confidence in public settings.
Helpful Guide: Foods to Avoid with an Ostomy: Prevent Blockages & Gas
2. Adhesive and Flange Performance Issues
One of the most significant challenges is the adhesive not performing the way it used to. Users have noted:
- Adhesive that seems unevenly distributed
- Edges lifting sooner than expected
- Output creeping under the barrier
- Wear time decreasing from 5–7 days to about 1–2
For anyone with sensitive skin, this increase in changes can lead to irritation, discomfort, and difficulty healing existing skin issues.
3. Closure Weakness and Outlet Failures
This issue is something I have personally experienced.
The bottom closure, which is designed to securely hold output inside the bag, feels less reliable than previous designs. In situations where the closure weakened or didn’t seal well, I had to use a paper clip as a temporary measure to avoid changing the appliance too frequently, which aggravates my skin.
Other users have reported similar challenges with the Velcro-style closure coming off much earlier than anticipated. This makes the appliance unusable and leads to frequent ostomy changes which come with a variety of problems for ostomates.
Including irritated skin from removing the appliance with fresh paste and a slew of other products. It also leads to wasted supplies, not just the ostomy bag itself but supplies needed for each bag change such as pastes, barrier rings, barrier film, deodorants and lubricants, etc.
It takes time out of our day to deal with leaks and ostomy issues, not to mention the embarrassment that can come along with those moments when we have to excuse ourselves in front of normies.
I don’t think ostomates actually refer to non ostomates as normies, I was just being silly but maybe it will become a thing now, who knows?
4. Increased Odor and Ballooning
In recent months, users have also noted:
- Odor becoming noticeable after 1–3 days
- Ballooning occurring more frequently
- Bags protruding outward even when not full
Some ostomates think that these issues may be due to a new material being used, most likely they went with a cheaper option, at the cost of our discretion and dignity of course.
To manage odor, I’ve been using a light spray of perfume on the outside of the bag each morning, which offers some improvement.
Helpful Guide: Why Does My Ostomy Smell? And How to Deal With It
Are These Changes Related to the CeraPlus Line?
A recurring theme among ostomates is that the decline in reliability seemed to coincide with the introduction of the CeraPlus line. Hollister describes CeraPlus as a ceramide-infused barrier designed to support skin health.
More clarity from the manufacturer could help ostomates understand what has changed and why.
Keep in mind that I have no idea what the heck is actually going on, I am just sharing my experience and experiences of those who have shared online to help other ostomates.
Practical Tips for Managing These Issues
While we wait for improvements or clearer communication, here are strategies that have helped me and others maintain comfort and protection.
1. Use a Support Garment or Cami
Helps reduce noise and keeps the pouch more discreet under clothing.
2. Reinforce the Bottom Closure
A small paper clip or securing strip can help temporarily if the closure weakens.
3. Deodorizing Solutions
Drops, sprays, and pouch deodorants may lessen odor but won’t eliminate it if plastic permeability is involved.
4. Barrier Strips Around the Flange
Helpful for reducing edge lifting and minimizing early leaks.
5. Request Product Replacements
Hollister customer service will offer replacements when you report Hollister ostomy bag problems, while issues persist.
How to Request Replacement Ostomy Supplies From Hollister
If you’re experiencing issues with your Hollister ostomy bags, you may be eligible to receive replacement products directly from the company. The process is straightforward, but it does require a few important details. Below is a step-by-step guide based on my personal experience.
1. Contact Hollister Customer Service
You can call their customer support line to report the issue. Be prepared for a brief wait time and a detailed conversation, as the representative will need to gather specific information before processing your request.
2. Have Your Box and Lot Numbers Ready
Before you call, make sure you save the boxes from any defective products. Hollister will ask for the lot numbers printed on your packaging in order to:
- Document your product complaint
- Confirm eligibility for replacements
- Track potential manufacturing issues
I had three boxes saved, and they approved replacements for all three.
3. Provide Your Contact and Product Information
During the call, the representative will ask for:
- Your full name
- Shipping address
- Email address
- Phone number
- Product codes and lot numbers from your boxes
This information is required to create a product report and to ship your replacements.
4. Complete the Consent Form
Hollister will send a Right to Contact consent form via text message or email. You must sign this form before they can move forward with your request. This step took me just a few seconds.
5. Answer Questions About Your Experience
To better document the issue, customer service will ask a few questions such as:
- How long you typically wear your ostomy appliance
- Any skin issues you’re currently managing
- The specific problems you have experienced with the product
These questions help them classify the issue and determine the appropriate replacement.
6. Confirm Replacement Shipment
Once everything is verified, the representative will let you know how many replacement items will be sent. In my case, they shipped replacements for each box I had saved.
Final Thoughts on Hollister Products
This article reflects my personal experience and publicly shared feedback from other ostomates who have been navigating recent difficulties with Hollister ostomy bags. The goal is not to criticize, but to provide insight, validation, and practical tips for those who may be struggling too.
While I appreciate that Hollister promptly provided replacements, the recent issues have made me more cautious about relying on their products moving forward. I’ve used Hollister for many years and currently have a pretty good doomsday stockpile going, so it will be some time before I need to place another order. When that time comes, I truly hope the quality returns to the standard this brand was once known for. If the problems continue, however, I may have to explore alternative ostomy products to ensure reliability and protect my skin health.
If you’ve encountered similar issues, feel free to share your experience. Your story could help someone else troubleshoot, prevent skin damage, or feel less alone in what can already be a challenging journey.
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Adhesive and Flange Performance Issues:
The Karaya based flange/face ring is thinner but also does not adhere as it used to, not transparent and more opaque in appearance almost powder like. The plastic frame is less ridged and too flexible. Usually it pulls away from my skin at the edges after 1-2 days. Depending on activity of course, they used to last up to 5-7 days and less physically active or showering ect.
Okay for post operative procedures in the hospital but for dynamic movement day to day wear they are less reliable.
Hi Steve, thank you for stopping by and sharing your experience!
Hollister closed pouch bags are defective! the company does not inspect products before boxing them. First the design changed and the second outer liner has a space at the top now which weakens the strength of bag at connection, They often leak! Now the last 6 boxes ordered have slits at the bottom of the bags! It is the outer lining and it is questionable if the slit is down to the inner lining! They are charging my medical insurance 388.00 for one box of defective bags! I had to tape the ends to use them fear of them leaking! I have called at least 4 times and a couple of times they replaced them with the same defective bags! There is no place to send pictures so they can see they are clearly defective in production as they all have the same slit in the same area! Im contacting medicaid now and the consumer complaint dept and the attorny general. Maybe they will get the message to inspect what they are charging huge fees for a defective product!
When I spoke to them on the phone they offered me a way to send photos although I am not sure that will help resolve your issue at this point. I am sorry to hear you have had a hard such a time. Thank you for stopping by and sharing your experience.
If one really wants to understand the reason why Hollister “fixed” something that wasn’t broken, you only need to do a fair assessment of their new woke values. I am NOT trying to be political, but factual. They pay lip service to the needs of their customers, but it is painfully obvious their priorities have changed. Their number one goal today is climate change and sustainability. You may or may not be on one side or the other of this issue, regardless, if you’re an ostomate you could probably give two figs about these issues when it comes to your dignity and life altering issues such as they have created. I could go on ad nauseam about what is contained in the bowels of their website, so before you argue with me, read it for yourself and dive deeply. Think critically. They talk about incineration gasses and landfills, which may be true, but really, does anyone in America burn trash anymore? Or maybe I should say, are there so many ostomates that we’re a threat to the planet? Give me a break. This is Hollister’s unnecessary bowing to the the climate activists so they can be recognized and rewarded. Remember, I said dive deeply. Finally, don’t take this as a political statement, because it’s not. It’s the truth and my health and wellbeing, and yours too, are far more important than Hollister’s knee bending to wokeism. We’ve had our lives demeaned and diminished by being presented as a “burden to the planet”. This isn’t over for a minute. Speak up and speak out.
Thanks for the comment, DD. I honestly hadn’t looked at the corporate side of these changes from that angle. You’ve given me a real rabbit hole to dive into! I’ll definitely be doing some reading on their sustainability shift and how it correlates with the product performance we’re seeing.
My bag is difficult to attach to the wafer. I use adapt pouch deodorant and it sometimes leaks at the bottom. I have to use a clip to keep is closed. Hollister is a great company. But I’m disappointed at these new Cera bags
Hi Susan, I am sorry to hear that you are also experiencing problems with these bags, it is so frustrating. I also use a clip to keep it closed at times because it easily comes undone. Thank you for leaving a comment and I wish you better luck with your supplies in the future.
My experience is similar to others; what used to last at least a week now lasts only two to three days, sometimes as little as a few hours. I no longer change them because it’s time but because they’re leaking. I am nervous about going out in company. I’ve used these for many years. I switched up from 1 3/4 inch barrier rings to 4 inch about two years ago because the smaller ones were beginning to fail prematurely. The 4 inch barriers worked pretty good for about a year but now they’re failing too. They’re actually leaking between the barrier ring and the adapter after only two or three days.
It’s pretty obvious what’s happening. If a product only lasts half or a third as long, the company sells two or three times as many, and makes two or three times more money. I’m not complaining to Hollister or asking for replacements; I’m, looking for a reliable alternative from a company with integrity.
Thanks for the comment! I am sorry you are experiencing these issues, it really is isolating to deal with these specific problems. The companies making them probably have very little idea of the impact faulty practices are having on real people and their overall quality of life. I understand completely why you would switch companies and I hope you find one that is reliable.
Noticed problems after 14 years with Hollister. Plastic seems thinner and susceptible to leaks, even permeable where fluid just leaks through, also experienced pinhole or leaks from small cracks in plastic. Their customer service is excellent – promptly send out replacement boxes, but production techniques/materials is letting everyone down.
However, don’t despair. I’ve found alternative product from Convatec which is reliable, so talk to other suppliers.
I’d much rather stay with Hollister and hope they will cure the problems to enable me to do so, but at the end of the day reliability is paramount.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting, Peter. I have noticed a lot of the same things with my products and with the return process but I agree that reliability is paramount and I need to look into other brands as well.
I constantly have the same issue with my bags especially leaks at the sides and the bottom every night especially going through a lot of bags now I’m new to this and I’m in a rehab till my reverse able surgery date in Oct so is it me doing something wrong or what ? Appreciate any advice you might have ?
Hi Larry, thanks for stopping by and commenting. Your issue sounds like it could be due to something else. If you are experiencing a lot of output or gas, it could be fixed by emptying more frequently through the night. Unfortunately without more info I am unable to offer much advice. Do you have a stoma nurse? They should be able to help you figure out exactly what is going on. Otherwise, feel free to ask more questions here, I am happy to help you figure this out.
Have used Hollister products over 7 years and normally not a problem. Last year, the skin barrier started to fail (being thin and flimsy). Now it’s the redesigned pouch. First coming undone at the Velcro. Then the newer design LEAKS at the top where the (supposed) deodorizer vent is. Leaks and smells constantly. Now need to change DAILY. Nice to get a replacement order. How about underwear, clothing and bedding??????? Let alone the cost and inconvenience and impact on daily activities? No swimming for now!!!!
Hi TM, thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. I feel your frustration with the products and can certainly see why you would avoid swimming with these products. Also, you bring up a good point that the product replacement does not make up for the other destruction in its path. Don’t even get me started on the emotional toll a leak can cause and this defect has caused quite a bit of anxiety for a lot of ostomates. I think many of us are in search of an alternative and hope these companies can do better.
This is the first time I have ever had to comment on Hollister Ostomy bags. I have been using their bags since my successful bladder removal in the spring of 2018. I have used their bag exclusively for all this time. Today I was changing by Urostomy (84895) bag and noticed something in the bag other than urine or mucus, about the size of a very small pea but not
round. I removed the bag and my stoma looked very normal and healthy so the object did
not come from my body. I had to cut it out or the bag and it looks like a small tooth. What!!
I was just going to throw it away along with the bag, but decided to save it until I got home.
I am in Europe now and will be home in a few days. Anybody ever hear of this?
Hi Ray, thanks for stopping by and commenting. While I navigate life with an ostomy, I do not have a urostomy myself, so my experience differs slightly from urostomy-specific care but it is incredibly reassuring to hear that your stoma looks completely normal, healthy, and that you aren’t experiencing any pain or unusual symptoms. Finding a random, tooth-like object in your pouch while traveling in Europe is definitely a bizarre surprise. Here are the two most likely culprits:
Manufacturing Flaw: A tiny piece of plastic resin or adhesive molding from the factory can occasionally harden, break off, and get trapped inside a sealed pouch. It can feel exactly like a small pebble or tooth.
Urinary Crystals: Changes in diet or urine pH can sometimes cause urinary crystals to clump together, though they usually look more like fine sand.
What to do next:
Since you saved it, call Hollister Customer Care when you get home. They take quality control seriously and will likely ask for the LOT number on the box or pouch to track the batch and investigate.
Safe travels back to the States!
Readers: Can Anyone Help Ray?
Since I don’t have a urostomy, I’m turning to our amazing community. Have any fellow ostomates, especially those using Hollister urostomy supplies, ever found a strange, tooth-like plastic fragment inside a sealed bag?
If you have any insights or advice for Ray, please drop a comment below!