Preparation and learning
Can you reuse a bandage?
A wound dressing and a washable support wrap serve different purposes. Start with the product label.
Use a fresh dressing on an open wound. Do not wash and reuse a product labelled single use. Some support bandages are designed to be washed and reused, following their manufacturer’s instructions.
Check what the bandage is for
A dressing is the material covering the wound. A bandage may hold that dressing in place or support an injured limb. The word “bandage” on its own does not tell you whether the product is reusable.
Some crepe support wraps are sold as washable and reusable. That does not make them sterile wound dressings, and it does not mean every crepe bandage can be reused.
Read the care instructions
- If the label says single use, discard it after use.
- For a reusable wrap, follow the specified washing, drying and replacement instructions.
- Check its condition before use. If instructions are missing or the product is damaged, ask a pharmacist or replace it.
For an open wound
Clean a minor wound and cover it with a clean dressing. Change dressings as advised and when dirty or wet. Do not return a used wound dressing to the first aid kit.
Severe bleeding needs immediate firm pressure and a call to 000. Do not delay pressure while searching for a perfect dressing.