In recent times, Australia's healthcare industry has faced increased scrutiny for its significant contribution to plastic waste, particularly in the form of medical wipes. With over 5 million kilograms ending up in landfills annually, The Hygiene Co recognised the need for change and took a proactive step by introducing CleanLIFE Plastic-Free Wipes – a range of Australian-made, TGA approved wipes that address the environmental challenges posed by conventional medical wipes.

The Plastic Problem in Healthcare

Over 3 billion wipes are used annually in Australia's healthcare, contributing to a staggering 10 million pieces daily. This immense volume of plastic waste caught the attention of The Hygiene Co, prompting them to develop a sustainable solution to reduce our carbon footprint.

The Founders' Vision

The founders at The Hygiene Co have a background in plastic-based materials, they witnessed firsthand the environmental impact of traditional manufacturing processes and the challenges in properly processing disposable soft plastics. Motivated by the positive response to sustainable alternatives, they embarked on creating a range of plastic-free wipes.

The Solution: CleanLIFE Plastic-Free Wipes

• Australian Made and TGA Approved: Their wipes are proudly made in Australia, supporting local jobs and industries while adhering to the strict standards of the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
• Compostable Plant-Based Fibres: They manufacture with FSC certified, plant-based fibres, ensuring that 75% of the wipe pack is made up of water, eliminating the need to ship water internationally.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: CleanLIFE wipes are 53% less carbon-intensive than imported wipes, contributing to climate action by minimising transportation charges and risks in the supply chain.

CleanLIFE Multipurpose Disinfectant & Detergent Wipes: Hospital Grade

Their flagship product, the CleanLIFE Medical Multipurpose Disinfectant and Detergent Wipes, are a 2-in-1 hospital-grade solution designed for cleaning and disinfecting various surfaces. Impregnated with Benzalkonium Chloride 0.4% w/w and EDTA 0.2% w/w, these wipes offer broad antimicrobial effectiveness against a range of bacteria, including the COVID-19 virus.

Key Features:

• TGA Approved: Entered on the ARTG (Wipes - AUST L 374210, Sprays - AUST L 386522), ensuring compliance with clinical needs.
• Proven Efficacy: Demonstrated 99.99% efficacy against tested germs and bacteria, with proven effectiveness against the COVID-19 virus in just 60 seconds.
• Plastic-Free and Compostable: Made from compostable plant-based fibres (EN 13432), these wipes meet environmental standards and help reduce the waste footprint.
• Alcohol and Chlorine-Free: These wipes are odourless, alcohol-free, and chlorine-free, making them suitable for most surfaces and non-invasive devices.

The Role of Disinfectants in Healthcare

CleanLIFE Plastic-Free Wipes align with the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare, providing a consistent standard of cleaning while reducing the risk of contamination. Their dual action as a disinfectant and detergent ensures thorough cleaning and surface decontamination.

Applications in Healthcare Facilities:

• Theatres/Interventional Areas/Intensive Care Unit/Inpatient and Outpatient Areas
• Bathrooms/Ensuites/Public Shared Bathrooms
• CSSD, Dental Practices, General/Primary Care Services, Laboratories, Pathology Collection Services/Centers, Veterinary Services/Clinics
• Blood Spills: Effectively cleans and disinfects blood spills on all hard surfaces.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Switching to CleanLIFE Plastic-Free Wipes offers numerous benefits for healthcare facilities:

• Elimination of Virgin Plastic: By eliminating the manufacturing of virgin plastic, they reduce associated carbon emissions and pollution.
• Reduced Carbon Emissions: Locally manufactured wipes are 53% less carbon-intensive than imported ones, contributing to a healthier environment.
• Reliability of Supply: These wipes offer a reliable supply chain, reducing the risks associated with imported alternatives.

Conclusion

Solmed is proud to introduce CleanLIFE Plastic-Free Wipes, an Australian-made and TGA approved solution that not only meets high clinical standards but also addresses the urgent need for sustainability in healthcare practices. Join us in making a positive impact on the environment by choosing CleanLIFE – the responsible choice for a plastic-free future.

Reference: Information provided courtesy of The Hygiene Co, manufacturer of CleanLIFE Plastic-Free Wipes.

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