Sanitizing Hospital Washing Machines: A Step-By-Step Guide

Keeping hospitals clean and sterile is essential to preventing the spread of infections and diseases, such as COVID-19. With hospitals and healthcare centres facing an increased number of infections in soiled or bloodstained garments, laundry equipment and processes are critical to maintaining safe patient care. This article will explore the importance of cleaning hospital washing machines, the methods and products used, and the features of modern machines that assist with maintaining hygiene standards.

Use protective equipment and follow procedures to prevent contamination

When handling soiled hospital laundry, it is essential to wear protective equipment to prevent contamination. Gloves, masks, eye protection, and closed-toe shoes are necessary to safeguard against harmful microbes and chemicals. Before handling any laundry, ensure you have donned the appropriate gear.

It is also crucial to establish designated areas for soiled and clean linens. By separating these areas, you minimise the risk of cross-contamination. Ensure that soiled linens are placed in a designated container, which should be cleaned and disinfected after each use. This container should be separate from the area where clean, washed items are handled.

When using a washing machine, opt for a model with a barrier system, such as a double-door mechanism, to prevent cross-contamination. These machines are designed to keep soiled and clean goods physically separated during the wash phase. Additionally, consider using ozone systems, which have been proven to reduce harmful microbes more effectively than traditional chlorine bleach.

After each cycle, disinfect the washing machine with EPA-registered List N disinfectant wipes to eliminate any remaining microbes. Pay particular attention to areas where water may pool, creating an environment conducive to mould, mildew, and bacteria. Use a damp cloth with white vinegar to clean these areas, ensuring you cover every surface. For front-loading machines, remember to clean the rubber seal around the door thoroughly.

By following these procedures and utilising the appropriate protective equipment, you can effectively prevent contamination when cleaning hospital linens. These practices ensure the safety of both patients and laundry workers in healthcare facilities.

Use an ozone system to sanitise

When it comes to cleaning hospital linen, it is important to ensure that everything that comes into contact with the goods is hygienically clean. This includes the washing machine itself, which should be designed to keep soiled and clean goods physically separated during the wash. A barrier washing machine can help prevent cross-contamination, which occurs when there is contact between dirty laundry and clean laundry.

One way to ensure that hospital linens are completely germ-free is to use an ozone system to sanitise the washing machine. Ozone laundry systems create ozone by combining oxygen and electricity, which is then dissolved in the washing water. When the ozone water comes into contact with organic materials in the laundry, it destroys or "oxidises" them, including bacteria, viruses, mould, and other microorganisms. Ozone also breaks up many inorganic materials, such as soils and greases, making it easier for water to remove these contaminants.

Ozone laundry systems offer several benefits over traditional washing methods. Firstly, they are more effective at sanitising and deodorising laundry, leaving it with a fresher smell. Secondly, they are more gentle on fabrics, improving their softness by removing calcium, magnesium ions, and other substances that contribute to water hardness. Thirdly, they are more environmentally friendly, using less energy and detergent while still achieving superior sanitising results.

However, it is important to note that ozone is a highly reactive and unstable gas, and working around commercial laundry machines with ozone can put workers at risk. Mild to moderate symptoms of ozone exposure can include coughing, a sore or scratchy throat, and damage to airways. To mitigate this risk, ensure that the ozone equipment is properly ventilated, with the ventilation system exhausting directly to the outside. Maintain a monitoring and alarm system for ozone levels, and have an emergency shutdown device for the ozone system that can be activated from outside the enclosure.

By following these instructions and utilising the power of ozone, hospital washing machines can be effectively sanitised, ensuring that linens are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Regularly clean and disinfect machines

To ensure hospital washing machines are kept clean and disinfected, regular cleaning and disinfection of the machines and materials are necessary. This is vital to prevent the spread of infection and diseases, including COVID-19.

Firstly, it is important to use the proper chemicals, water temperature, and mechanical action to ensure effective cleaning and disinfection of hospital laundry. In addition, the use of barrier machines or tunnel washers can help to keep soiled and clean goods physically separated during the washing process, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

Secondly, new models of commercial washers with smart dosing technology can automatically measure and add soap and cleaning chemicals, improving cleaning efficiency and reducing detergent waste. These advanced features contribute to better overall cleaning performance.

Additionally, ozone cleaning systems are highly effective in eliminating microbes and reducing the presence of harmful bacteria in hospital laundry rinsing water. Ozone acts faster than traditional chlorine bleach and can eliminate up to 99.99% of microbes, making it an ideal choice for disinfection.

Furthermore, regular cleaning of the designated containers for soiled linen, linen hampers, and the washing machine itself is crucial. EPA-registered List N disinfectant wipes can be used on the inside of the machine and its surfaces to remove bacteria and prevent the buildup of mildew and mould. A simple solution of white vinegar and baking soda can also be used to clean the machine, removing any unpleasant odours and ensuring a fresh-smelling laundry room.

Use leak-proof containers for soiled laundry

Hospital laundry services are under more pressure than ever to maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. This means that the right equipment is essential to ensuring that soiled laundry is cleaned and sanitised effectively.

To achieve this, it is important to use leak-proof containers for soiled laundry. Linen hampers or bins should be used to collect contaminated linens, which are then bagged and transported to the hospital laundry. These containers should be cleaned and disinfected after each use to prevent the spread of infection and disease. This is a critical step in slowing the spread of viruses and bacteria.

Using leak-proof containers ensures that dirty laundry does not come into contact with clean laundry, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. This is a key consideration when choosing hospital laundry equipment, as it is essential to maintaining a safe environment for both patients and laundry users.

Barrier washing machines are also an effective way to keep soiled and clean goods physically separated during the wash phase, adding an extra layer of protection. These machines are designed to meet the specific needs of hospital laundries, offering high levels of hygiene, cleanliness and performance.

By implementing these practices and utilising the right equipment, hospital laundry services can maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and play a crucial role in infection control.

Regularly inspect and maintain machines

Regular and thorough inspection and maintenance of hospital washing machines are crucial to ensure optimal performance and the highest standards of hygiene. Here are some detailed guidelines to achieve this:

Firstly, establish a comprehensive inspection routine, including visual inspections and performance checks. Visually inspect the machine for any signs of wear and tear, paying close attention to components like hoses, seals, and drums, as these parts are prone to deterioration over time. Performance checks should include monitoring vibration levels, water pressure, and temperature controls to ensure they are functioning correctly and consistently.

Secondly, implement a rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocol for the washing machines themselves. This involves regular cleaning after each cycle and periodic deep cleaning to prevent the buildup of mold, mildew, and bacteria, which can cause unpleasant odors and compromise hygiene. Use EPA-registered List N disinfectant wipes to sanitize the interior of the machines, including the drums, lids, and rubber seals, removing any residue or microbes that may remain after the wash cycle. Additionally, consider using natural cleaning agents like white vinegar and baking soda, which are effective in eliminating odors and disinfecting surfaces.

Thirdly, maintain the machines by addressing any issues promptly and scheduling regular maintenance checks. Stay vigilant for any unusual noises or changes in performance, and have a qualified technician investigate and resolve any problems immediately. Regular maintenance checks by professionals can help identify potential issues before they become more significant concerns, reducing unexpected breakdowns and extending the lifespan of the machines.

Finally, stay up to date with advancements in washing machine technology, particularly those designed for healthcare facilities. Newer models often incorporate innovative features like smart dosing technology, which automatically measures and dispenses the correct amount of detergent and chemicals, enhancing cleanliness and reducing waste. Additionally, consider investing in machines with ozone cleaning capabilities, as ozone has been proven to eliminate harmful microbes more effectively and rapidly than traditional chlorine bleach, contributing to improved hygiene standards.

By diligently following these inspection and maintenance guidelines, healthcare facilities can ensure that their hospital washing machines consistently deliver exceptional performance, maximize hygiene, and contribute to a safer, healthier environment for patients and staff alike.

Frequently asked questions