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The Role of Hospital Privacy Curtains in Infection Control

Writer's picture: Chad AddieChad Addie

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) pose a serious threat to patient health. Healthcare facilities must take every precaution to reduce contamination and prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. Hospital privacy curtains play a key role in infection control, yet they are often overlooked as a potential source of pathogens.


This article explores how privacy curtains contribute to infection prevention, what materials offer the best protection, and how hospitals can maintain hygiene standards.


How Privacy Curtains Contribute to Infection Control

Hospital privacy curtains provide physical separation between patients, reducing direct contact. However, they are frequently touched by patients, visitors, and staff, making them high-risk surfaces for contamination.


  • Studies show that privacy curtains can harbor bacteria like MRSA and C. difficile.

  • Contaminated curtains can spread infections through contact transmission.

  • Regular cleaning and antimicrobial fabrics help lower infection risks.


Hospitals must take a proactive approach to managing privacy curtains as part of their overall infection prevention strategy.



Learn more about antimicrobial privacy curtains and how they help reduce contamination risks.


Best Materials for Infection Prevention

Not all privacy curtains are created equal when it comes to infection control. Facilities should prioritize materials designed to inhibit bacterial growth and withstand frequent cleaning.


  • Antimicrobial-Coated Fabrics: These curtains have built-in protection against bacteria and fungi.

  • Vinyl or Synthetic Materials: Easier to clean and resistant to moisture, making them ideal for high-risk areas.

  • Mesh-Top Designs: Improve air circulation and reduce the risk of airborne contamination.


Selecting the right materials can make a significant difference in reducing HAIs and maintaining a sterile environment.


Explore more about custom privacy curtain options designed for hospital infection control.


Proper Cleaning and Replacement Schedules

Even with antimicrobial coatings, hospital privacy curtains must be cleaned or replaced regularly to prevent bacterial build-up.


  • High-Risk Areas (ICUs, ERs, Isolation Rooms): Curtains should be changed or cleaned every few days.

  • Standard Patient Rooms: Cleaning schedules vary but should occur at least once per month.

  • Visible Contamination: Any curtain with stains or bodily fluid contact should be replaced immediately.


Routine cleaning protocols ensure privacy curtains do not become a weak link in infection prevention efforts.



The Shift Toward Disposable Privacy Curtains

Some hospitals are moving away from reusable privacy curtains in favor of disposable options.


  • Single-use curtains eliminate the risk of contamination between patients.

  • No need for laundering, reducing hospital operating costs.

  • Quick-change designs allow for rapid curtain replacement.


While disposable curtains are not always necessary in every department, they provide an added layer of protection in critical care units.


Additional Office Locations

For inquiries about hospital privacy curtains and infection control solutions, contact one of our regional offices:


  • Chicago, Illinois

  • Denver, Colorado

  • Tulsa, Oklahoma

  • Tampa, Florida


Hospital privacy curtains are a critical component of infection prevention strategies. Choosing the right materials, implementing proper cleaning schedules, and considering disposable options can help healthcare facilities reduce HAIs and improve patient safety.

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The Lorton Group supplies Hospital Privacy Curtains . It manufactures and supplies multiple configurations of cubicle curtains, shower curtains, and tracks. We offer ceiling mounted and non-ceiling mounted tracks and curtains. Accessories are available for cubicle and shower tracks and curtains. We sell products and services to public/private hospitals, military bases, VA hospitals, nursing homes, medical offices, universities, general contractors, and distributors. Contact us now for more info on Hospital Privacy Curtains

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