Apron Care and Cleaning

Proper X-Ray Apron Care

 

Whether you already have an x-ray apron or you’re planning on purchasing one, it’s important to know the basic care requirements for keeping your x-ray apron intact. Understanding the proper x-ray apron care can result in longer use.

 

We’ve broken this post down into four simple recommendations to consider for how to care for your x-ray apron.

 

  1. Cleaning

 

In a medical setting, it’s easy for protective apparel to get dirty. If your x-ray apron is dirty from blood or other bodily fluids, you should clean it as soon as possible.

 

  • Protective aprons should NEVER be machine laundered, dry cleaned or autoclaved.

 

  • To spot clean the surface of an apron:
    • Use a soft bristle brush and a mild soap solution such as a hand soap or laundry detergent.
    • Never use bleach or solvents (mineral spirits, paint thinner, etc.) to clean an apron as they may damage the interior lining and compromise the protective properties of the apron.
    • Rinse gently with water and hang FLAT to dry.
  • We recently did testing on several different types of disinfectants.  We observed no adverse reactions when using Clorox Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner Disinfectant Wipes, Sani-Cloth AF3 Wipes (Grey Top), or Revolution Scrubbles Apron Cleaner according to their product directions for use.

 

  • In general, we do not recommend using bleach or bleach cleaners/wipes on aprons.

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     2. Storage

 

  • Don’t fold, crease, drape, or sit down tightly on your x-ray aprons.

 

  • We strongly recommend that our aprons are safely hung on a lead apron rack, hanger or equivalent storage unit. After storing your x-ray apron make sure to hook and loop any closure to avoid snagging or tearing of fabric. Storing aprons correctly can increase the life cycle of your x-ray aprons.

 

  1. Inspection

 

  • It’s recommended that lead aprons are to be checked fluoroscopically at least once a year to uphold standard performance.

 

  • Checking x-ray aprons as often as possible is always best practice, the slightest crack can render the apron damaged.

 

  • Replacement should be considered every 18-24 months, depending on the amount of usage and general wear and tear.

 

  1. Disposal

 

  • Each apron that contains lead must be properly disposed. You can do this by contacting a disposal service who can properly discard lead material. Hazardous-waste carriers and certain handling companies have pick-up or drop-off services for unwanted aprons. 

 

  • Alternatively, all non-lead aprons can be disposed of in the regular garbage disposal.

 

  • There is no need to contact a disposal service for non-lead aprons.

 

These recommendations are key to caring for x-ray aprons. Take care of your x-ray aprons, if not the abuse can significantly shorten apron’s use. If you have any questions or comments regarding x-ray apron care, please contact us.