I use enemas and colonic irrigation mostly to treat constipation. Occassionally, I'll feel like doing a complete cleanout when I feel bloated and backed up. For the complete cleanouts, I'll use a colon tube. For maintenance enemas... no tube.
I have a couple of the 20" red rubber tubes, and a 4' thin silicone tube. I prefer the 4' tube, as it works better for deep cleanouts. The tube delivers solution to the Ascending Colon and Cecum without having to stand on my head. I use it for deep fills, and lavages, which is evacuating while filling. Basically a rinse. I find lavages to be very relaxing. No cramps, no distension. For lavages, I also use a speculum which holds things open, and allows continuous evacuation. When doing a lavage, I almost can't feel any sensation of filling, but it's giving me a good cleaning.
When I do a complete cleanout, I do a couple of smallish enemas (1-2 qt of soap solution), then switch to tap water with the colon tube and speculum, and move to the tub. I can get deep fills, and deep lavages while lying on my back in the tub. MUCH more relaxing than repeated cycles of knee-chest fills followed by dashes to the toilet.
When I try to do a full cleanout using a standard nozzle, with fills taken in knee-chest position, I find that after about 4 cycles, my colon shuts down, and I wind up retaining a lot of fluid.
The way I can evacuate with the speculum, I can take as many cycles as I want, as it doesn't tire out my colon, and make it shut down. No muscle contractions (peristalsis) is needed for my evacuations. When I do this, I DO usually get a decent amount of absorption. Usually around a quart. So I'm well hydrated. 😃