What Is a Bedpan?

A bedpan is a toileting device used by people who cannot safely reach a bathroom due to illness, injury or limited mobility. It collects urine or faeces while the user remains in bed, helping protect dignity and reduce strain.

There are two main types:

• Reusable bedpans: Made from stainless steel or plastic. Must be washed and disinfected after every use.
• Disposable bedpans: Single-use only, made from pulp or biodegradable materials. Ideal for infection control and convenience.

Bedpans have been used for over 500 years and remain essential in hospitals, care homes and at-home care. They offer a safe, practical solution when standing, transferring or walking to the bathroom is difficult.

Who Uses Bedpans?

Bedpans are commonly used by people who:

• are recovering from surgery (e.g., hip, spine, or leg procedures)
• are elderly and at higher risk of falls
• are bedridden due to illness or fatigue
• experience pain or weakness when standing or transferring
• need temporary toileting support during recovery

In hospital and care settings, bedpans help prevent falls, reduce pain during toileting, and support users who cannot safely access a bathroom.

How Do Bedpans Work?

Although using a bedpan can feel unfamiliar at first, the process quickly becomes routine. A caregiver explains the steps, maintains privacy and gently positions the bedpan to ensure comfort and safety.

After use, the caregiver helps the person off the pan, supports their hygiene needs and disposes of waste appropriately (or cleans reusable pans thoroughly).

How to Position and Use a Bedpan

Positioning the Bedpan

1. Explain the process clearly and reassure the user.
2. Wash your hands and put on disposable gloves.
3. Optional: Apply a little talcum powder to the bedpan rim for easier placement.
4. Warm the bedpan slightly if made of metal.
5. Help the user lower or remove clothing if needed.
6. Use a blanket for privacy — and ensure the user can alert you when finished.

Using the Bedpan

There are two safe methods depending on the user’s mobility:

1. If they can lift their hips: Ask the user to bend their knees and raise their hips. Slide the bedpan underneath and help them lower onto it gently.
2. If they cannot lift their hips: Roll the user gently onto their side, place the bedpan against their buttocks and roll them back so they settle evenly onto the pan.

Once finished, help them off the bedpan, support cleaning, and dispose of waste safely. For disposable pans, follow your local waste disposal guidance.

Supporting Mobility and Comfort at Home

Managing mobility challenges varies from person to person. For many, the right combination of home adjustments and daily support can improve confidence and reduce risk.

• Stay safely active: Gentle movement can help maintain strength. Seek guidance from a GP or physiotherapist.
• Improve safety at home: Add grab rails, non-slip mats and bedside aids to reduce fall risk.
• Use mobility aids confidently: Products such as Zimmer frames, rollators, walking frames, mobility trolleys, and elbow crutches can help make everyday tasks easier.
• Consider a free home assessment: Our specialists can recommend personalised bathroom aids and mobility solutions.

Shop Male and Female Bedpans with Millercare

Bedpans allow people with limited mobility to use the toilet safely, privately and comfortably. Whether you choose reusable or disposable models, they can greatly improve daily care routines for both patients and carers.

Millercare stocks trusted brands including Aidapt, Able2 and Warwick Sasco — with options suitable for male and female users.

Browse Bedpans & Toileting Aids →