Why dressings are single use only
The crossed-out "2" symbol is a regulatory instruction, not a suggestion to buy more.
The single-use symbol — a figure 2 with a line through it — appears on every sterile dressing. It means the product is validated for one use only.
Why re-use fails
- Sterility ends the moment the sachet is opened.
- Adhesive that has been applied once will not bond properly again, so the dressing lifts.
- An absorbent pad that has taken up fluid is contaminated and no longer absorbent.
- Reapplying a dressing that has touched a wound moves bacteria back onto it.
What about repositioning?
Lifting a dressing you just applied to reposition it before it has touched anything is a grey area — it will stick less well, but it is not contaminated. If it has been on the wound, it is finished.
Disposal
Used dressings go in normal household waste in a sealed bag at home. Workplaces with clinical waste arrangements should follow their own policy, which will usually differ.
See a pharmacist, GP or urgent care if a wound will not stop bleeding after ten minutes of firm pressure, is deep or gaping, was caused by something dirty or rusty, contains anything you cannot flush out, or shows spreading redness, heat, swelling, pus or a fever. Get help urgently for animal or human bites, wounds over a joint, and any wound in someone with diabetes or poor circulation.
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FitMedix products are CE-marked medical devices intended for the care of minor wounds. This site does not provide medical advice — seek professional help for deep, dirty or non-healing wounds, or if signs of infection appear. Always read the instructions on the pack.