Guidelines for Identifying Deteriorated Patient Lift Slings

Accelerated Deterioration from Improper Laundering

Slings, particularly loop straps, that have been laundered under unsuitable conditions—such as with bleach, high-heat washing, or drying—may appear intact but may have compromised tensile strength. This poses a significant safety risk and makes such slings unsuitable for lifting patients or residents.

This guide aims to assist staff and caregivers in identifying slings affected by these conditions and the subsequent loss of strength. Any sling with the characteristics listed below should be removed from service immediately. 

Proper Care and Laundry Guidelines

• Temperature: Slings should be washed at 120°F and air-dried or dried on a low-heat setting.

• Avoid Bleach: Bleach must not be used under any circumstances.

• Equipment: Avoid using commercial washers and dryers.

• Maintenance: Always follow care instructions on the sling label, and ensure laundry equipment is well-maintained.

Indicators of Deterioration

1. Faded, Missing, or Illegible Labels:

• If the label is no longer legible but the sling fabric appears intact, it may indicate chemical exposure from bleach or high-temperature washing.

• Labels tend to degrade faster than the sling’s main body, making them a reliable early indicator.

2. Permanent Curling or Creasing:

• High heat during drying can cause permanent wrinkles or curling in loop straps, back straps, or handles.

• Heat combined with bleach exacerbates this condition.

3. Brittleness or Stiffness:

• Loop straps that remain stiff or brittle after bending indicate significant fabric degradation.

• Brittle straps are prone to further damage from abrasion.

4. Edge Abrasion and Surface Wear:

• Visible wear along creases or areas of frequent use often comes with color loss and a chalky texture.

• Abrasion results from both external contact and internal fiber damage.

5. Decomposition of Edge Binding and Stitching:

• Edge binding may appear discolored or chalky, with stitching remaining intact since it’s often made from different materials.

Examples of Wear and Tear

• Figure 3: A sling showing normal use and care; the label is intact but faded.

• Figure 12: A loop strap with regular wear and no permanent creases or abrasions.

Common Causes of Sling Deterioration

1. Chemical Damage:

• High concentrations of bleach or disinfectants weaken the fabric.

• Insufficient rinsing intensifies the chemical reaction during drying.

2. Heat Damage:

• Excessive drying times or high heat degrade the plastic fibers in the sling.

• Slings, made of synthetic materials, require less drying time than natural fabrics.

3. Mechanical Action:

• Excessive agitation during washing accelerates internal fiber wear and overall degradation.

• Gentle washing cycles are recommended to minimize mechanical stress.

Preventive Action

Inspect slings regularly for signs of deterioration. Slings showing any of the above characteristics must be removed from service immediately to ensure patient safety.