Surgical Towel: A Complete Guide for Buyers and Medical Professionals
When it comes to medical supplies, surgical towels play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and efficiency in healthcare settings. Whether you're a hospital procurement manager or a medical professional, understanding the different types, features, and sourcing options is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about surgical towels, from their functions to how to choose the best ones for your needs.
How to Find Reliable Surgical Towel from China in 2025
China remains a leading supplier of medical textiles, including surgical towels. To ensure quality, look for manufacturers with ISO 13485 certification, which guarantees compliance with medical device standards. Platforms like Alibaba and Made-in-China list verified suppliers. Always request product samples and check for absorbency, durability, and sterilization compatibility before placing bulk orders.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Surgical Towel from China
Key considerations include material quality (100% cotton or blended fabrics), sterilization methods (gamma radiation or ethylene oxide), and packaging standards. Verify supplier credentials, request test reports, and confirm shipping terms (e.g., FOB or CIF). Negotiate MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) to balance cost and inventory needs.
Types of Surgical Towel
1. Disposable Surgical Towels: Made from non-woven materials, ideal for single-use to prevent cross-contamination.
2. Reusable Surgical Towels: Typically woven cotton, designed for multiple sterilization cycles.
3. Lint-Free Towels: Minimize fiber shedding during procedures.
4. Antimicrobial Towels: Treated with silver ions or other agents to reduce bacterial growth.
Functions and Features of Surgical Towel
These towels serve multiple purposes: absorbing fluids, draping surgical sites, and maintaining sterile fields. Key features include high absorbency (≥10 g/g), tear resistance, and compatibility with autoclaving (for reusable variants). Some advanced models incorporate color-coding for easy identification during procedures.
Scenarios of Surgical Towel
Beyond operating rooms, surgical towels are used in:
- Dental clinics for chairside procedures
- Veterinary practices for animal surgeries
- Emergency response kits for trauma care
- Tattoo parlors to maintain hygiene standards
How to Choose Surgical Towel
Consider these factors:
1. Procedure Type: Opt for disposable towels in high-infection-risk surgeries.
2. Budget: Reusable towels have higher upfront costs but lower long-term expenses.
3. Size: Standard sizes (40x60cm or 45x90cm) suit most needs; custom sizes available.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure products meet FDA (US) or CE (EU) standards.
Surgical Towel Q & A
Q: How often should reusable surgical towels be replaced?
A: After 50-100 sterilization cycles or when showing signs of wear (fraying, reduced absorbency).
Q: Can surgical towels be used for wound care?
A: Only sterile, single-use variants should contact open wounds to prevent infection.
Q: What's the price range for bulk orders?
A: Disposable towels cost $0.10-$0.50/unit; reusable cotton towels range $1-$3/unit (1000+ MOQ).
Q: How to verify sterilization effectiveness?
A: Check for sterilization indicators (chemical markers) or request third-party test reports.
Q: Are colored surgical towels safe?
A: Yes, if dyes are non-toxic and don't interfere with sterilization processes.
