How to wash lab coats

When it comes to working in a laboratory, keeping your lab coat clean and sterile is of the utmost importance. Lab coats are essential for preventing cross-contamination and protecting the wearer from exposure to harmful substances.

Whether you're working in a hospital, a research facility, or a classroom, knowing how to wash your white lab coat, doctor's coat, laboratory coat, or even a kid's lab coat properly is crucial.

Step by step guide to washing your lab coat

Here are some steps to follow for washing laboratory coats:

1. Check the label: Before washing any lab coat, check the label for any special washing instructions. Some lab coats may require specific washing temperatures or special detergent.
2. Pre-treat stains: If your lab coat has any visible stains, pre-treat them with a stain remover before washing. This will help to ensure that the stains are completely removed during the washing process.
3. Wash separately: It is best to wash lab coats separately from other clothing items. This will prevent any cross-contamination between lab coat fibers and other clothing fibers.
4. Use a gentle cycle: When washing laboratory coats, use a gentle cycle on your washing machine. This will help to prevent any damage to the fabric and ensure that the coat is properly cleaned.
5. Use a mild detergent: Use a mild detergent when washing lab coats. Harsh detergents can damage the fabric and cause the coat to lose its protective properties.
6. Avoid fabric softeners: Fabric softeners should be avoided when washing lab coats. They can cause the fabric to become less water-resistant and reduce the effectiveness of the coat as a protective barrier.
7. Hang to dry: After washing, hang the lab coat to dry. Avoid using a dryer, as the high heat can damage the fabric and cause it to lose its protective properties.

Additional tips for washing lab coats

• If your lab coat is heavily soiled or has been exposed to hazardous materials, consider taking it to a professional laundry service for cleaning.
• If you have multiple lab coats, rotate them to avoid excessive wear and tear. This will also give you time to wash and dry them properly.
• If you work in a facility that requires you to wear a lab coat, make sure you follow their guidelines for cleaning and maintaining your lab coat.

It is important to note that laboratory coats and doctor’s coats should be washed after every use. This is particularly important for medical professionals who work in a hospital setting and may come into contact with infectious materials.

For parents with children who wear lab coats for science experiments or dress-up play, it is still important to regularly wash kid’s lab coats to maintain their cleanliness and durability.

Washing your lab coat is an essential part of keeping yourself and your work environment safe and clean. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your white lab coat, doctor's coat, laboratory coat, or kid's lab coat remains in good condition and free from stains and contaminants.

Replacing worn or damaged lab coats

Over time, lab coats can become worn and damaged, which can compromise their effectiveness as protective equipment.

Here are some signs that your lab coat may need to be replaced:

1. Stains and holes: If your lab coat has significant stains or holes, it may not provide adequate protection against hazardous materials.
2. Fading and discoloration: Over time, lab coats can become faded or discolored, which can make it difficult to see stains or other signs of wear.
3. Shrinking: If your lab coat has shrunk in the wash, it may no longer fit properly, which can compromise its effectiveness as protective equipment.
4. Outdated: If your lab coat is outdated or no longer meets the safety standards of your workplace, it may need to be replaced.

If your lab coat shows any of these signs, it may be time to replace it. It's important to prioritize your safety and ensure that your lab coat provides adequate protection in a laboratory setting.

Where can I buy lab coats?

At Lab Coat Co, we have a wide variety of lab coats available for you to buy. From white doctor’s coats to lilac, pink, navy and black lab coats - there’s a style to suit every person and workplace! You can check out our full range here.