How to Properly Clean and Disinfect Your Lab Coat

How to disinfect a lab coat

When your lab coat has been exposed to hazardous materials, it is crucial to properly disinfect it prior to reuse. There are several methods available to effectively disinfect a lab coat:

• Autoclave: Autoclaving is widely recognized as the most effective method for disinfecting lab coats, as it eliminates bacteria, viruses, and spores. To properly autoclave a lab coat, securely seal it in an autoclave bag and subject it to a cycle at 121 degrees Celsius for a duration of 20 minutes.
• Chemical disinfectants: Chemical disinfectants, like bleach or sodium hypochlorite, can be utilized for lab coat disinfection. Nonetheless, it is crucial to meticulously adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and thoroughly rinse the lab coat after disinfection.
• Heat: Heat can also serve as a method of disinfecting lab coats. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that certain fabrics may not endure high temperatures. To disinfect a lab coat using heat, launder it in hot water and subsequently dry it on a high heat setting.

How to clean a lab coat with blood on it

To effectively clean a lab coat stained with blood, it is recommended to follow these procedural steps:

• Soak the lab coat in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
• Apply a gentle amount of mild detergent to the stained area and gently massage it in.
• Rinse the lab coat thoroughly with cold water.
• If the stain is still visible, repeat steps 2 and 3.
• Wash the lab coat as usual.