LAUNDRY
High Standards During further testing and research Camira were asked to provide reassurance that healthcare fabrics treated with the TriOnyx system would still perform to infection control standards once they had been in use (stained/soiled) and cleaned.
It was decided that a used/soiled chair would be returned for trialling. It’s worth mentioning seating shouldn’t be allowed to become heavily soiled. For the sake of comfort, hygiene, and safety, the recommended cleaning guidelines should always be followed and as swiftly as possible after an accident.
Two measurable standards were agreed. After cleaning, the fabric would still perform to being:
• Waterproof (Hydrostatic Head) – Measured by test method BS 3424 Part 26 Method 29A.
• Antimicrobial – Measured by test method AATCC 147.
Using a warm water solution with standard upholstery cleaner the solution was applied to the fabric and then removed. A moderate amount of water was used and the whole area was wetted out due to the level of soiling. The cleaning took approximately five minutes to complete. The chair was left to dry overnight.
After cleaning, the fabric was noticeably cleaner without soiling. The sample was also unpicked and noted that the white flocked backing showed no evidence of water penetration from cleaning and there was no disturbance to the waterproof film.
The independent testing passed against both performance criteria:
• Anti-bacterial – no growth on or around the sample.
• Hydrostatic head – no penetration at the volume of water representing
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2m, which exceeds the industries, ‘pass’ criteria of 1m.
Camira’s performance finish healthcare fabrics have been designed and engineered specifically for safety and cleanability. The anti-microbial and flame retardant properties are permanent and not affected by cleaning. The finish is completely waterproof. The stain repellent provides extra time to tackle liquid spillages by an added element that promotes a beading action.
Even though tough textiles can provide comfort and time-saving assistance for care staff, fabrics still need TLC to keep them in top condition and looking their best. A regular care and maintenance routine will still be needed for the fabrics to continue to look good, perform well, and protect for longer.
Persistent stains can be cleaned with a damp cloth or upholstery shampoo,
but never leave soap or cleaning fluid residues on the fabric surface or fully immerse, the fabric. Steam cleaning and solvent based cleaners are not recommended either, this form of cleaning will eventually damage the fabric and ultimately its long-term performance.
You do have to be realistic. Soft and comfortable fabric doesn’t have to mean problems or hard work for staff, but it is important to consider many factors when choosing products and services that will be suitable for the demands of a care home environment.
The same considerations should apply to your fabric choices. Whether you want to scrub it, wash it or just wipe it down quickly, fabrics that provide safe, practical and beautiful upholstery solutions are out there working hard for you.
www.camirafabrics.com/region-landing - 29 -
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