A gravity bag is a pump-free way to deliver liquid nutrition through a feeding tube. It has a reservoir that holds the feed, tubing with a drip chamber, and a roller clamp that controls the flow. When the set is hung above stomach level, the feed flows down through the tube under its own weight. No electricity, programming or charging is needed, which makes these sets simple to use at home and easy to pack for travel.
These sets are designed for people who can tolerate feeding into the stomach, usually through a G tube, and whose care plan calls for intermittent feeds. Feeds into the small intestine through a GJ or J tube generally need the steady, controlled rate of a feeding pump.
All products in this collection use ENFit connectors. This international safety standard keeps feeding sets from being connected to IV lines or injection ports. Each set is a single-use medical device intended for clean technique at home.
Choosing Feeding Bags for Home Use
- Volume: Sets in this collection hold 1000 mL or 1200 mL. Choose a size that comfortably fits the largest single feed in the care plan.
- Fill style: Top-fill designs, like the Vesco top-fill set, have a wide opening that’s easier to pour into and rinse.
- Connector type: If the feeding tube or extension set still uses an older (legacy) connector, choose a transition set or add a compatible ENFit adapter.
- Low-profile buttons: If you’re feeding through a button, you’ll also need a bolus extension set that matches the button’s brand.
- Quantity: Sets are replaced often, so buying by the case helps avoid running out. Add a case to your cart to keep about a month’s supply on hand.
When comparing a gravity feeding bag set with a pump set, the main difference is rate control. A pump sets the rate electronically. A gravity set’s rate depends on the roller clamp and how high the set hangs.
How to Set Up and Run a Feed
These general steps follow common home-care practice. Always follow the specific instructions from your care team and on the product label.
- Prepare: Wash your hands and set up on a clean surface. Check the expiration date of the nutrition and confirm it’s at room temperature, since cold feeds can cause cramping.
- Fill and hang: Close the roller clamp, pour in the prescribed amount, and hang the set above stomach level on an IV pole or hook.
- Prime the tubing: Open the clamp briefly to let the feed fill the tubing and push out air, then close it.
- Flush the tube: Flush the feeding tube with water as directed. Some care teams specify sterile water, especially for infants or people with weakened immune systems.
- Connect and run: Connect to the feeding tube or extension set and open the clamp to the flow rate you were taught. Raising the set speeds the flow, and lowering it slows the flow.
- Position safely: Keep the head and shoulders raised at least 30 degrees during the feed and for a period afterward to lower the risk of reflux and aspiration.
- Finish: Flush the tube again, disconnect, and discard the set or rinse it according to the label.
Stop the feed and contact the care team if there is coughing or choking, vomiting, a swollen or painful abdomen, or difficulty breathing.
Tube Site Care Essentials
Feeding time is a good time to check the stoma, the opening where the tube enters the body. Many caregivers keep a small kit nearby: disposable gloves, split gauze pads or drain sponges that fit around the tube, and absorbent foam dressings for sites with mild drainage. Disposable bed pads under the work area help protect bedding from spills.
Not every stoma needs dressings. A healed, dry site is often left open to air. When dressings are used, change them whenever they become wet or soiled, because moisture against the skin can cause irritation. Contact the care team if you notice redness that spreads, swelling, bleeding, foul-smelling drainage or leaking around the tube. Shop gauze, pads and dressings in our Wound & Skin Care collection.
Feeding method, rate, volume, and schedule must be determined by a qualified healthcare professional. Always confirm product compatibility with your care team.
