How to Wash and Disinfect Cryogenic PPE

Due to the risk of contamination with COVID-19, it is more important than ever for lab workers to maintain the cleanliness of their cryogenic PPE. 

The challenge, however, is the cryogenic PPE is comprised of multiple layers and materials to provide the most effective protection. When these materials are exposed to harsh detergents, high heat, and/or high pressures, you risk degradation to the garment’s protective properties. At best, the garment’s lifespan could be shortened. At worst, a garment can be rendered useless. 

Fortunately, with proper care, the SARS-CoV-2 virus can be safely and effectively cleaned and eradicated from cryo PPE. Following is a breakdown of Tempshield’s tested and proven care recommendations for our products.

TIP: Since research indicates that SARS-CoV-2 can only survive on a fabric for a few days, we recommend waiting 24 to 72 hours before laundering.

Special Washing Requirements by Garment Type

Tempshield Cryo-Gloves®

• Place in a mesh garment washing bag to prevent inversion of the inner and outer components.
• Tumble dry at medium setting or…
• Air dry by standing each glove on its gauntlet or hanging it by the tip of a finger.

Washing Tempshield Waterproof Cryo-Gloves® and Waterproof Cryo-Grip® Gloves

• Place in a mesh garment washing bag to prevent inversion of the inner and outer components.
• Do not tumble dry.
• Air dry by standing each glove on its gauntlet or hanging it by the tip of a finger.

Washing Tempshield Cryo-Apron®

• Follow the washing recommendations outlined above.
• Tumble dry at medium setting or hang to air dry.

Cryo-Gaiters™

• Follow the washing recommendations outlined above.
• Completely close the gaiters to prevent lint and other contaminants from adhering to the hook and loop closures.
• Air dry.

All Tempshield Cryogenic PPE Garments

The following instructions apply to all Tempshield PPE garments, regardless of product line and type:

• Do not wash in hot water.
• Do not use harsh detergents or bleach.
• NEVER DRY CLEAN.
• NEVER AUTOCLAVE.

While proper cleaning is essential to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in a laboratory environment, it represents only one aspect of cryogenic PPE safety. Additional best practices include taking steps to ensure workers never share PPE.

For more information read our article, Best Practices for Cryogenic PPE with Regard to COVID19.

To learn more about the care of cryogenic PPE, read our article, How to Care for Cryogenic Gloves and PPE In the Age of Infection.