Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol

Long sleeves, hidden risks: Hospital attire often harbors bacteria

February 4, 2026

In a prospective observational study at a tertiary-care hospital, long-sleeved apparel worn by healthcare workers providing inpatient care was frequently contaminated with bacteria. Among 280 sleeve samples, 81% showed bacterial growth and 21% grew at least one potential pathogen, including streptococci, gram-negative bacilli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Fleece attire and material were more likely to harbor pathogens than other fabrics. While genomic analysis found no links to patient infections, contamination occurred within hours of wear, even after laundering.

Clinical takeaway: Consider limiting long sleeves during patient care—especially fleece—and reinforce “bare below the elbows” practices to support hand hygiene and infection prevention.

Source:

Sanes Guevara MF, et al. (2025, December 22). Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. Healthcare worker long-sleeved attire contamination: a prospective observational study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41423879/