Professional Maintenance and Washing of Medical Gowns

November 3,2025

Gown Care: Hygiene, Comfort, and Longevity

The medical gown is more than a uniform—it's vital personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. Because of its role, it requires frequent, rigorous washing. Yet even with regular care, issues like odors, fabric residues, and poor hygiene can arise. Contrary to popular belief, these problems do not stem solely from detergents or personal habits. Changes in garment materials and washing technologies in recent years have made gown care more complex.

Modern Fabrics and Efficient Washing Machines

New-generation medical gowns are crafted from lightweight, technical fibers that maximize comfort and durability. However, these advanced blends often require washing at low temperatures (30°C) to protect fabric performance. Modern, low-consumption washing machines, built for energy and water savings, use shorter cycles and less water, which can leave behind dirt, detergent residues, and increased humidity—ideal conditions for bacteria and unpleasant odors. The result? Gowns that appear clean but may still pose a hygiene risk.

Persistent Odors: A Red Flag

If a gown develops unpleasant odors after just a few hours of use, this is a key sign of incomplete sanitation. While laundry perfumes can mask smells, they don't eliminate the problem—in fact, they often add to fiber residues.

Sanitation: Essential Guidelines

As a protective device, the medical gown must be washed more thoroughly than ordinary clothing.

• Cycle Temperature: Wash at 60°C for at least 30 minutes to achieve proper sanitization.
• Disinfectants: Generally unnecessary—temperature alone is effective.
• Sterilization: Full sterilization requires an autoclave; washing at 90°C with additives does not substitute for this process.

Recommended Professional Protocol

1. Pre-Soak: Soak gowns in cold water for at least one hour to loosen organic stains.
2. Detergent: Use universal detergent for whites; opt for formulas without optical brighteners for colored items.
3. Washing Cycle: Set at 60°C, use the minimum effective cycle, and add an extra rinse.
4. Drying: Line-dry when possible; avoid excess heat in tumble dryers.
5. Machine Maintenance: Regularly run an empty 90°C cycle with bleach or citric acid, clean filters and drum seals.
6. Loading: Keep washer load moderate, leaving at least 15 cm free space.
7. Ventilation: Leave the washer door open after use to prevent mold and odors.

Note: PASTELLI fabrics are tested up to 90°C. Most damage is due to incorrect additives, not heat.

The Importance of Extra Rinsing

Modern detergents, optimized for quick and cool cycles, can build up in gown fibers, particularly in low-water machines. This residue can cause skin irritation.

• Quick Test: Soak a freshly washed gown in clean water, then wring it out. If the water turns soapy, the gown holds excess detergent—reduce detergent quantity and add an extra rinse next time.

Conclusion

Caring for medical gowns is a matter of professional safety, not just appearance. By respecting modern fabrics and washing technologies, it’s possible to keep gowns hygienic, comfortable, and long-lasting. With proper care, a well-made PASTELLI gown remains a reliable ally for healthcare professionals, shift after shift.