Any arm, shoulder, elbow or wrist injury makes people’s life painful because during the recovery time doing day to day activities becomes quite difficult.
So usually doctors suggest an arm sling which is an orthopedic device that is designed in such a manner that it provides support to the injured and protects it from further damage by restricting the unwanted movement of the injured arm. Moreover it also promotes a safer and smoother recovery process.
Since, the arm sling pouch remains in close contact with the body and is worn for an extended period of time; this results in the gathering of dust, sweat and bacteria that can lead to discomfort, skin irritation and skin related issues which affects the healing process of the user.
So proper cleaning is required to keep the sling safe from this accumulation. Therefore, in this blog we will talk about the importance of cleaning the pouch, how to wash it properly without damaging it and some essential caring tips that will help in keeping the sling clean which will provide comfort during the healing journey.
Why is it Important to Clean the Sling?
Since, arm sling is closely attached with the body and is worn for several hours continuously which can lead to the accumulation of dust, sweat and bacteria or fungi that can cause the following problems:
- Skin irritation or related issues
- Unpleasant odour from the sling
- Increased growth of the fungi or bacteria
- Reduced the comfort of the user
But cleaning the pouch on a regular basis helps in preventing this build up of bacteria and sweat that protects from any skin irritation and related problems. That’s why cleaning the arm sling is important.
How to Wash the Sling Properly?
Washing is important for keeping the sling clean but improper washing can damage the sling by reducing its effectiveness and lifespan of the sling. To wash the sling properly follow these following steps:
Read the Manufacturer Washing Instructions
Sling’s manufacturer usually provides a guide to wash the sling. Reading the guidelines and washing according to it is important. Different slings are made from different materials like mesh, cotton and polyester that require different washing procedures.
As using wrong chemicals and washing methods can significantly damage the material that reduces the effectiveness of the pouch. So, reading the manufacturer’s washing guidelines before washing the sling is foremost.
Remove Any Removable Straps or Hooks
Many of the sling includes many removable components such as velcro straps, shoulder pads , metal or plastic supports. Removing them before washing and cleaning these separable components separately helps in proper cleaning of the arm pouch. If your components are not detachable then avoid soaking them in the water as the chemical can damage them.
Hand and Machine Washing Steps
One of the safest and most effective ways of cleaning your arm pouch is hand washing and most of the slings are usually hand washed recommended. Below are steps you can follow to clean your pouch properly through hand washing:
- Fill the basin with lukewarm water
- Add mild detergent in the water and mix
- Slowly put the arm sling into the water and squeeze the fabric gently
- Make sure you rub areas that are more prone to collect sweat and bacteria like the neck and area around the underarm
- Avoid scrubbing the sling hard as it can damage the sling
- Transfer the sling from detergent water to normal water and rinse the sling thoroughly to remove the detergent
Following these steps you can clean the sling properly by hand washing and maintain your sling effectiveness and lifespan.
Some slings can also be machine washable. So to wash the pouch in the machine follow these basic steps:
- Put the sling in the mesh laundry bag
- Make sure you use mild or gentle washing cycle
- Wash in the mild detergent with lukewarm water
- Don’t wash heavy clothes with the sling
Using these basic steps can prevent any kind of loose stitching, damaged straps that can otherwise happen when machine washed.
Avoid Extreme Heat and Harsh Chemicals
Using harsh detergents or chemicals can damage the fabric of the arm sling that reduces the support of the pouch and affect its lifespan. So make sure you avoid these strong chemicals during your washing of the sling.
Moreover, arm sling should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extreme heat as it can lose the stitching of the fabric, shrinks the fabric and reduces support. So avoid drying the sling with a dryer or iron and let it air dry in a well ventilated room.
Tips For Daily Care
These are some basic daily care tips for your sling.
Inspect the Sling Daily
Regularly checking the sling helps in preventing the sling from further damage. Check the follow things:
- Loose Stitches
- Loosen velcro straps or closures
- Accumulation of Dust and Stain
Checking these signs regularly can help with keeping your sling clean and effective.
Storing it Correctly
When the sling is not in use, storing becomes essential to prevent the sling from any damage. Follow the below points while storing:
- Store it in a cool and dry place
- Do not put heavy objects or clothes on the sling
- Store it away from direct sunlight or extreme heat
Final Thoughts
An arm sling is used by many people recovering from arm related injury. Moreover it is worn for several hours and remains in close contact with the body that results in accumulation of bacteria, dust and odour that over time causes discomfort and skin irritation to the user and reduces the comfort during the healing journey.
So keeping the sling clean is essential for better comfort and protecting yourself from any type of skin problem.
Therefore knowing important things like reading manufacturer’s guidelines before washing, how to wash properly by hand or machine, washing detachable components separately, avoiding extreme heat and knowing essential care tips helps in maintaining the sling clean that helps in more comfort during your recovery journey.
