Cleaning a plastic face shield involves carefully disinfecting, rinsing, and drying it according to specific steps to ensure it remains safe and effective.
Based on guidance, cleaning your face shield involves several key stages:
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
The process for cleaning the outside of a plastic face shield, as described in the reference, is straightforward and focuses on disinfection and removal of residue.
- Disinfect: Carefully wipe the outside of the face shield using a wipe or clean cloth saturated with EPA-registered hospital disinfectant solution. This initial step targets potential pathogens on the shield's surface.
- Clean Residue: Wipe the outside of face shield clean with a towel and water or alcohol to remove residue. This step helps to remove any disinfectant residue and other dirt, leaving the surface clear. You can use either water or alcohol for this purpose with a clean towel.
- Dry: Fully dry (air dry or a use clean absorbent towel). Proper drying prevents water spots and ensures the shield is ready for use. You can choose to let it air dry completely or use a clean absorbent towel.
- Hand Hygiene: After handling the potentially contaminated shield and cleaning supplies, it's crucial to remove personal protective equipment (PPE) used during cleaning. Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene. This final step protects you from contamination.
Following these steps helps maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the plastic face shield.
Materials Used in Cleaning
Based on the process outlined, the necessary materials include:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wipe or clean cloth | Application of solution |
| EPA-registered hospital disinfectant solution | Disinfection |
| Towel | Wiping clean |
| Water or Alcohol | Residue removal |
| Clean absorbent towel (optional) | Drying |
| Gloves (used during cleaning) | Personal protection |
Ensuring you have these items ready before starting the cleaning process will make it more efficient.
Keeping your face shield clean is vital for safety, especially in environments where protection from splashes or droplets is necessary. Adhering to recommended cleaning procedures helps prolong the life of the shield and maintains its protective function.
