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Medical textiles are one of the most rapidly growing sectors in the textile market. This includes such product categories as precaution gowns, patient gowns, laboratory coats and scrubs. The rising need for medical textiles reflects an aging population, longer life spans, more Americans gaining access to healthcare and more advanced healthcare procedures. Healthcare facilities need cost effective textile supplies to reduce operating costs, which are increasing due to the influx of patients, an unpredictable economy and reduced Medicare assistance. A comparison of reusable vs. disposable products reveals the overall advantages of reusable textiles, including cost savings, waste reduction and infection control.

 

 

A major misconception driving healthcare facilities to use disposable textiles is the assumption that they are more economical than reusable textiles. At first glance, it appears that disposable textiles are more cost effective.  However, to determine the true cost, you must look beyond the initial purchase price. When

using disposable textiles, you also must consider:

 

Waste disposal

 

Occupational health

 

Environmental impact

 

Warehousing

 

 

Though reusable textiles do have additional costs for cleaning and delivery, the chemicals and water used for daily maintenance is much less than disposal costs.

 

Download the entire Get the Advantage:  Reusable vs Disposable Texiles article by Janice Henry, Vice President of Marketing for Superior Uniform Group®.  Questions about the article contact Janice at 1-800-727-8643 or [email protected].