There is an ongoing debate between reusables versus disposables in healthcare mired in confusion. Some of that confusion may stem from the marketers of the disposables industry hoping to steer healthcare organizations away from reusables. So, do reusables need a reevaluation? Clean Matters gathered Lurlie Moro, Regional Sales Manager at UMF Corporation, John Scherberger, Owner of Healthcare Risk Mitigation, and Greg Gicewicz, President & CEO of Sterile Surgical Systems, for answers.

Contrary to some reports that may exist, Moro said current infection prevention strategies for laundering and handling healthcare textiles appear to be adequate in preventing HAIs. “It’s important to look at facts versus fiction when you see any of this research.”

No matter what study is available, Gicewicz said it was wise to do one’s research and dig deeper to ensure there wasn’t an ulterior motive behind it. In one such study trying to downplay the effectiveness of microfiber reusables, Gicewicz noted the microfibers used in the study were not laundered and tested in an accredited facility or put through proper standards and best practices.

Disposables may qualify as microfiber, but Scherberger said all is not what it seems. “The disposable microfiber products are taking the definition of microfiber to its extreme. Microfiber is a fiber that is seven all the way down to 1 micron.” Compare that with an ultra-microfiber reusable, which is .3 microns. A micron is a millionth of a yard. This bi-component product is split with a filament so that it is so tiny it can reach into the smallest nooks & crannies, to trap, capture, and remove bacteria, pathogens, viruses, spores, and dirt. In contrast, the typical 7, or 1-to-7-micron disposables contain too large of a filament to trap, capture, and remove the same elements. If a healthcare facility is looking for the best sterilization for textiles, one method is a clear choice: reusables.