The effect of low-temperature laundering and detergents on the survival ofEscherichia coliandStaphylococcus aureuson textiles used in healthcare uniforms

Abstract

To determine the survival of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus on cotton and polyester and the effectiveness of low-temperature laundering and detergents on the removal of micro-organism from healthcare laundry. Survival of E.coli and S. aureus on polyester or cotton was assessed over 3weeks and the efficacy of a domestic wash (40 and 60°C) and a range of detergents was also determined. Both bacteria were able to survive on cotton (5 log(10) ) and polyester (0·28 log(10) ) for up to 3weeks. Laundering at 40°C resulted in a 3·5 log(10) removal of the initial 7·7 log(10) inoculum and some cross-contamination to sterile fabrics (3log(10) ). Increasing the temperature to 60°C resulted in the complete removal of the initial inoculum. This study shows that most of the micro-organisms are removed at 40°C, however, those cells still remaining may have the potential for further contamination to the clinical environment and patients. National Health Service (NHS) nurses are required to domestically launder their uniforms at 60°C to ensure safe removal of micro-organisms, 33% of NHS staff questioned said they launder their uniforms at 40°C, which could potentially result in transmission of hospital-acquired infections.