Laundry, waste, and blood or body fluid spills

Laundry and waste are routine in care homes but mishandling them can spread infection. Overfilled bags, incorrect linen routes, poorly managed spills and uncertainty about contaminated items increase risk. Simple, consistent procedures that all staff follow reduce that risk.

Safe linen handling

• Keep clean and dirty laundry separate and use different containers or routes where required.
• Do not shake used linen because this can spread contamination into the air and environment.
• Know what to do with infectious or heavily contaminated items including any water-soluble bag or machine-loading arrangements used locally.
• Clean hands after handling used linen and between dirty and clean laundry tasks.

Waste and spills

Segregate waste correctly, avoid overfilling bags, and follow local procedures for used PPE, bodily fluid waste, medicines and sharps. Waste contractors and local schemes may use colour coding, so always follow the home’s local arrangements.

Clean blood or body fluid spillages immediately using the approved local method. Do not apply chlorine-releasing agents directly to urine - they can react and release chlorine gas. Staff must follow the local process, including appropriate PPE and product choice.

A useful operational note

Safe laundry, waste, and spill management reduce hidden routes of infection spread. The safest practice is consistent containment, correct segregation, immediate action, and minimal unnecessary handling.