I don't honestly know what other families do when one person has a stomach problem that causes vomiting, but I always give the sick person an empty garbage can or bucket in case they don't reach the bathroom on time. For older kids and adults, it also provides a sense of security when sleeping to know that there is a safe place to be sick if you wake up suddenly. Well, lately we have been using a small garbage can that was getting kind of gross despite my extensive cleaning and sterilizing. To solve this problem, I just picked up a small garbage can in a light color at the dollar store. I got out my Sharpies, and drew a large, brightly colored girl, boy, dog and cat, each with a sad face and a thermometer in its mouth. I drew a wiggly border around the top. Now, whoever gets sick will have a clean place to vomit, and it will be easier for me to clean because it's starting out new and fresh. And, it will be less gross all around, since it's bright and cheery. (I hope).