Sterile vs non-sterile: when it actually matters
Sterile means validated free of viable organisms, not simply clean. It matters on open wounds.
These terms are used loosely in shops and precisely in regulation. The difference is meaningful.
Sterile
The product has been through a validated sterilisation process — commonly ethylene oxide or irradiation — and sealed so it stays that way until you open it. Anything touching an open wound should be sterile.
Non-sterile
Clean and fit for purpose, but not validated free of organisms. Strapping tape is the usual example, and that is fine because it is applied to intact skin, not to a wound.
What breaks sterility
- Opening the sachet — from that moment the contents are no longer sterile.
- Any tear, pinhole or damp patch in the packaging.
- Passing the expiry date, because the seal degrades over time.
- Decanting a box of individually wrapped items into a tin.
Practical rule
Open one at a time, at the point of use, and discard anything you opened but did not use. It feels wasteful and it is far cheaper than an infection.
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.
Shop the range
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.