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Bacterial survival in laundered fabrics
Applied Microbiology
|March 1, 1975
Summary
Washing linens at 54°C for 8-10 minutes effectively reduces bacteria in hotel settings. Healthcare facilities should use 60°C for 10-13 minutes for thorough bacterial decontamination of linens.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infection Control
- Textile Science
Background:
- Hospital linens can harbor pathogenic bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus.
- Effective laundering is crucial for preventing microbial transmission in healthcare and domestic settings.
- Understanding the impact of washing parameters on bacterial survival is essential for hygiene.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the efficacy of different laundry washing temperatures and times on bacterial survival on linens.
- To establish optimal laundering protocols for reducing microbial load in various environments (hospitals, hotels, homes).
Main Methods:
- Linens inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus were subjected to washing cycles at 38°C, 49°C, 54°C, and 60°C.
- Washing times varied, followed by drying in a commercial tumbler dryer.
- Bacterial enumeration was performed after macerating linens using a Waring blender and plating on nonselective media.
Main Results:
- An 8- to 10-minute wash cycle at 54°C, followed by adequate drying, achieved acceptable bacterial reduction on motel and hotel linens.
- Higher temperatures and longer wash times were evaluated for their impact on bacterial survival.
- Specific recommendations are provided for healthcare facility linens based on microbial reduction efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Laundering practices significantly impact bacterial survival on textiles.
- A 54°C wash for 8-10 minutes is effective for general linen hygiene.
- Healthcare facilities require more rigorous laundering, recommending a 60°C wash for 10-13 minutes for optimal microbial control.
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