To effectively clean clothes contaminated with gastrointestinal (GI) illness-related fluids (vomit, diarrhea, etc.), you should use detergent and, if the fabric allows, bleach.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the cleaning process:
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Pre-Treatment: Remove any solid material from the clothing as carefully as possible, wearing gloves if available. Dispose of the solid material properly.
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Washing:
- Use your regular detergent.
- Bleach (If Suitable): Add 1/2 cup of household bleach to the wash if the fabric can tolerate it. Check the garment's care label first.
- Alternative to Bleach: If bleach is not suitable, use an oxygenated detergent according to the product's instructions. Oxygen bleach is color-safe and effective for sanitizing.
- Wash Cycle: Begin with a pre-wash cycle followed by a regular wash cycle.
- Water Temperature: Use the hottest water setting that the fabric can withstand. Again, consult the garment care label. High temperatures are crucial for killing germs.
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Drying:
- Dry the clothing in a machine using the hottest setting the fabric allows.
- Ensure the items are completely dry.
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Hygiene:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after handling contaminated items.
- Disinfect the washing machine drum and any surfaces that may have come into contact with contaminated materials.
Important Considerations:
- Fabric Type: Always check the care label of the garment before washing to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Severity of Contamination: Heavily soiled items may require multiple washings.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Consider wearing disposable gloves and a mask when handling heavily contaminated items to minimize your risk of exposure.
- Sorting: Wash contaminated items separately from other laundry to prevent cross-contamination.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean gastro-contaminated clothes and reduce the risk of spreading illness.
