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FAQs

Select a question below, or search the FAQs to find answers to some of our most commonly asked questions. Or contact us if you have a specific question.

Do I need to create an online account to place an order?

No, you can place an order without creating an online account.

However, there are many benefits in creating an online account.

How do I cancel an order?

If you want to cancel an order, please contact us.

Unfortunately, once your order has been dispatched it’s too late to cancel the order. Find out about how to arrange returning an order.

How do I find out if my order has been processed?

Once you place your order, you will receive an email from us to confirm that we’ve received your order.

Then when the order has been processed and your items are ready to be sent to you, you will receive another email from us.

If you haven’t received either of these emails in your inbox, please check your junk mail folder. If you find an email from Interweave in the junk, move it to your inbox to ensure that any future emails from us arrive in your inbox.  You can also add our email address ([email protected]) to your safe senders list (or trusted senders list) depending on your email software.

How do I place an order?

There are two ways to place an order with Interweave:

1) Buy online through the website, paying with a credit card or debit card or;
2) Businesses can place an order through the website and opt to pay by 30 day credit account (apply for a credit account here).

How does Interweave protect my personal information?

We take the matter of protecting your personal data very seriously. Please read the privacy policy to find out more.

I have an online account, how do I use the Quick Order form?

Please log into your online account and select Quick Order.  The Quick Order form will display a list of the items you have most recently ordered.

To re-order any of these items, simply select how many of each you need using the dropdown menus.

To order items not already included in your list on the Quick Order page, use the search function to look for the items you need and add them to your Quick Order.

I work for the NHS, can I buy Interweave products through the NHS Supply Chain?

We use this icon on our website to show which products are available via the NHS Supply Chain:

 

If you want to order a product via the NHS Supply Chain website, simply click-through to see the product details on our website and then click the NHS Supply Chain link on that page.

Click through to NHS Supply Chain website

It will open up the same product on the NHS Supply Chain website. You will just need to login with your NHS Supply Chain account and proceed with your order as you would normally.

For products not available via the NHS Supply Chain, please either contact us or place your order directly through the Interweave website.

Find out more about NHS orders

I’ve cancelled my order, when will I receive the refund?

If you cancel an order before it’s been dispatched, we will confirm with you by email that we have been able to cancel the order in time. In that case, we will process the cancellation refund within 2 working days. Please allow up to 5 days for it to be available in your bank account.

If the order has already been dispatched, please read about how to arrange returning the items to us. Once we receive the parcel and have checked that the items are still in perfect condition, we will confirm with you by email. Then the refund will be processed within 2 weeks. Please allow up to five days for the refund to be available in your bank account.

What payment options do you offer?

You can pay for orders by credit card and debit cards, we accept Visa Debit, Visa Credit, Mastercard and American Express. You can also pay via PayPal, including the PayLater option that PayPal offer.

You may also apply for a business 30 day credit account, simply complete the online application form and we will process your application within two working days for you. Then when you place an online order, we will invoice you and you’ll have 30 days to pay the invoice.

When will the payment be taken from my account?

If you opt to pay by credit card or debit card, the payment will be processed online straight away at the time of the order.  

If you order via a business 30 day credit account, you will be invoiced at the time of the order. You will be required to pay the invoice within 30 days of the order date. You can pay for the invoice by the following methods: cheque, BACS bank transfer, credit or debit card via PayPal.

Will I be charged VAT on my orders?

Yes, by default, you will be charged VAT on all items.  We have provided the facility within the website to view products either with or without VAT for your convenience, however you will be charged VAT when you pay for your order.

Do you offer any discounts for bulk purchases?

Yes we do offer bulk discounts for stocked items. Please look at the individual product pages to view the bulk discount tiers.

Is this website secure?

Yes, the Interweave Healthcare website has up-to-date website security and is fully secured by using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) to encrypt the data in both directions.

You can see that SSL is in use on the website by looking at the address bar at the top of the browser. There is a padlock image and the website URL begins with “https://”

HTTPS secure website

 

 

Website security is vitally important. A website that has SSL security protects your data by encrypting the information you enter into the website. For example, if you are filling in a contact form, the SSL encrypts your name, address and email address.  This prevents the data being leaked, because it is only transmitted between your computer and the server you are sending the contact form request to.

Can anyone buy from Interweave?

Sometimes, people visit our website and wonder if they can, as an individual, buy goods from the website. That’s correct – anyone can purchase goods online, using a credit card, debit card or a  PayPal account.

Benefits of buying from Interweave Healthcare:

  • Purchase the same healthcare items as used in hospitals
  • Fast UK delivery
  • Efficient order processing
  • Helpful customer service team

Start shopping!

What is Interweave's GLN?

Firstly, a GLN is the Global Location Number.  The GLN is used to identify locations and legal entities.

Global Location Number from GS1This unique identifier is comprised of a GS1 Company Prefix, Location Reference, and Check Digit. Find out more from GS1.org

NHS Trusts use GLNs to identify supplier addresses. If you are ordering products for the NHS please note that when you order products from Interweave Textiles Ltd (trading as Interweave Healthcare), that the PEPPOL order documentation will show our GLN.

The Interweave Healthcare GLN is: 5060885270009

Please update your systems to include this GLN in the supplier records you hold for our company.

Contact us if you have any queries related to the GLN.

 

Related:

Ordering for the NHS

View the non-slip hospital sock range

 

What is the VAT number for Interweave Healthcare?

Our VAT number is: GB 852 2732 32.

Can I order a sample of a product?

Please order one of the item online. If you place an order before 3pm on a working day (Monday-Friday), your order will be dispatched within 48 hours.

Your single product will be with you very quickly, so that you can evaluate the product and go back online to order more when you are happy that the sample meets your needs.

Can I check availability of items online?

All items on the website are in stock, unless there is an “out of stock” indicator displayed. If we have less items in stock than you need for your order this will also be displayed on the product page once you have entered the quantity you wish to order.

If it appears the product is out of stock on the website, please contact us, we can advise you on the next delivery date.

How do I know which size to buy?

Each product listed on the website has sizes displayed under Additional information. In some cases, where the sizing can be quite complex such as scrub suits or slipper socks, you might find it helpful to look at the detailed sizing information on the individual product data sheets or in our product catalogue.

All sizes are shown in metric measurements (cm, m, kg etc). If you need to convert to imperial measurements, try this converter.

To view the size guide, click the view size guide link on the product page, which appears like this.

size guide

Can I buy contract textiles?

Yes, we sell textile products suitable for contract purposes such as hotels, bed and breakfasts and hostels. Find out more about contract textiles

Can you wash a mattress protector?

Mattress protectors can be washed in either a normal domestic washing machine or a commercial laundry washing machine at a regular 40C to 70C temperature. However, as there is a waterproof layer within the mattress protector which typically contains some plastic, it’s important to tumble dry at a low temperature or wait for it dry naturally to prevent the plastic melting.

View our best-selling mattress protector

What is bariatric?

Bariatric is a term used in the medical community that means obesity. In the UK, the NHS classes patients as obese if they either have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more; or if they weigh more than 25 stones (or 159kg). In a hospital, surgery is offered to treat obese patients.

Interweave Healthcare supplies some products to help nurses and carers looking after obese patients in hospitals, care homes and at home. These include the 10XL patient gown, the transfer sheet and the Airpal patient transfer system.

Bariatric patient gowns
10XL lapover patient gown

What are slipper socks?

Slipper socks are socks are worn on the feet, with anti-slip gripping tread on the sole of the foot to prevent falling on slippery surfaces. UK hospitals provide these to patients who stay in the hospital overnight. Some have the grippy tread on both the sole and the top of the foot. This is so that even if the socks twist around when walking, the patient is less likely to fall.

Slipper socks
Latex-free tread

View our range

What is a cellular blanket?

A cellular blanket is designed to have holes in the weave creating a lot of “cells” within the blanket fabric. The cells trap warm air to keep you warm in cooler times and let warm air out when necessary to keep your body at the optimum temperature. Therefore, they are ideal for all year round use.

Many people layer up a few on top of a bed for maximum warmth.

Polyester cellular blankets - cot
Cells or holes in the weave

View our range online

What's the difference between double tread and fall prevention?

Double tread and fall prevention slipper socks are designed in the same way with tread on both the top and sole of the foot. Both options are double sided non slip hospital socks. Providing the same levels of safety.

The reason for having the latex-free non-slip tread on both sides of the sock foot is to prevent falls, even if the sock slips around the foot in bed, or whilst walking there will always be some tread sticking to the floor.

However, the fall prevention socks are manufactured in bright colours for all sizes – to make it easy for nursing staff or care home staff to easily identify which patients or residents are most likely to fall. Double tread slipper socks are different in so much as they are colour coded by size, i.e. each size is a different colour for easy size recognition in a busy hospital ward or care home environment.

Fall prevention slipper socks yellow
Fall prevention socks in bright yellow

View product information about slipper socks

Find out How to choose which size slipper socks to buy

Find out How slipper socks should fit

Read blog: Buyer review – Don’t slip up! Buy the right non-slip socks

What do you wear under a hospital gown?

When you attend hospital for an appointment, you may be asked to wear a hospital patient gown for a procedure, for example for an x-ray or colonoscopy. The nursing staff will explain to you what to wear under the gown, as it varies depending on the type of procedure. In the majority of cases, you will be asked to remove all other clothing and just leave your underwear on underneath the gown.

Interweave provides the Dignity hospital gown to many hospitals, as this provides the patient with more dignity. The Dignity gown covers the whole body and features simple straps to tie up; meaning that patients don’t need to ask for help fastening fiddly poppers.

Dignity patient hospital gown
Dignity hospital gown is generally worn with underwear underneath

 

You may also be interested in:

FAQ: How to tie a hospital gown

Blog: Well-designed hospital gowns – a game changer?

Blog: How many hospitals in the UK

 

Why cellular blankets?

Cellular blankets are woven with cell-like holes in the pattern. They are commonly woven from cotton, polyester, acrylic or wool. The cells or holes in the blanket allow air to move into the fibres, which heat up with the warmth of the body and the warm air becomes trapped inside the layers. Above all, this causes the blanket to warm up more quickly than one with a non-cellular weave.

In Winter months or when you are feeling a chill, it is recommended that you wrap up in many of these blankets for the most effective warm-up.

The lightweight, breathable design of blanket is also useful in Summer months, especially the cotton ones, as they can keep a breeze out without overheating. For instance, hospital maternity wards and private birth centres rely on these blankets all year round to keep newborn babies warm in cribs and cots.

Likewise, nursing homes use these single bed size blankets to keep residents warm without getting overheated.

Polyester cellular blankets
Polyester cellular blankets
Polyester cellular blanket
Polyester cellular blanket
cellular blanket
Cotton cellular blanket

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View our range online

What are hospital gowns called?

They have many names, depending on the purpose and style of the gown. Generally known as “hospital gowns” collectively, they are also referred to by many as patient gowns or medical gowns. Not to be confused with surgical gowns, which is the protective clothing worn by surgeons and operating theatre staff.

Interweave provides UK hospitals with many different types of gowns including the operation gown which is a traditional white back-tying polycotton gown.

Other names used are: lapover gown, dignity gown, popper gown and pullover gown.

Interweave also provides an innovative three-arm toga, which takes away all the effort of putting on a gown properly, as there are no ties, poppers or straps – the patient simply puts it on over both arms like a backwards coat and then wraps the third arm around the body and slides it onto the left arm.

Three arm toga hospital gown
Three arm toga gown
Lapover patient hospital gown
Lapover gown
Dignity patient hospital gown
Dignity gown

What is a scrub?

A “scrub” is a shortened version of “scrub suit”, which are sanitary garments worn by doctors, nurses, surgeons, and other workers involved in patient care. Scrubs are typically worn in hospitals, clinics, dental surgeries and vets. However, beauty salon staff also sometimes wear scrubs, so do some childcare staff.  Any job where you are likely to get very messy and potentially covered in bacteria, is a job where you would benefit from wearing a scrub suit.

Scrubs are washable at high temperatures, providing a way to thermally disinfect the clothing after a shift.  Available in two parts, a top and trousers, they are worn by both men and women so styles tend to be designed to be unisex for convenience.

The Interweave range includes performance scrub suits which are used by the NHS, nursing tunics as well as the branded WonderWork scrubs.

Do I put on the mattress topper or protector first?

That’s a good question! To which there’s no strictly correct or incorrect answer. However, we believe that a mattress topper acts as an extension to the mattress, and is used to increase the comfort of a bed.

Ideally, therefore, the mattress protector should go on top of this, to keep the mattress protector clean and dry. Mattress toppers and protectors are both ideal to enhance the comfort and longevity of the mattress.

 

What is a mattress protector?

Mattresses can be protected from water damage by having a protector put on the bed underneath the sheets. The protection is enhanced further if you use one with elasticated edging to wrap around the corners of the mattress.

Choose this one, a lightweight breathable polycotton with a waterproof layer inside to prevent water leaking through to the mattress. Elasticated edges wrap snugly around the corners keeping the sides protected from damp and moisture too. You’ll find this is a worthwhile investment if there are issues of incontinence to deal with.

single bed waterproof mattress protector
Waterproof mattress protector

 

Are all mattress protectors waterproof?

Not all mattress protectors are waterproof, no. Some mattress protectors are instead designed to add a layer of comfort to the bed and to keep the mattress clean.

Most importantly, the ones that are waterproof will be labelled as waterproof or water resistant. You should be aware that water resistant means that some moisture may seep through, whereas water proof means that the moisture is prevented from moving down to the next layer, usually with the addition of a plastic layer in the middle of the protector.

The Interweave waterproof mattress protectors are made of a lightweight breathable polycotton with a waterproof layer inside to prevent water leaking through to the mattress. These mattress protectors have elasticated edges which wrap snugly around the corners of the mattress keeping the top and sides clean and dry.

View the comfortable quilted mattress protectors or the water resistant mattress protectors

Do waterproof mattress protectors work?

Simply put, yes – waterproof mattress protectors do work. That is to say that they are designed to make your mattresses last longer and generally they do that. Our mattress protectors have elasticated edges which wrap snugly around the corners of the mattress keeping both the top and the sides protected from spills, damp and dirt.

Some manufacturers may claim that their mattress protectors are waterproof but be careful to check for the volume of liquid that can be absorbed and check that the seams are double stitched for extra strength.

The Interweave range of mattress protectors includes a waterproof bed pad, a waterproof mattress protector and a quilted mattress protector.

waterproof bed pad
Waterproof bed pad 
single bed waterproof mattress protector
Waterproof mattress protector
Mattress protectors
Quilted mattress protectors

Do mattress protectors make you sweat?

Sweating in bedMattress protectors are designed to protect the mattress from things such as sweat, stains, and dirt, to lengthen the lifetime usage of a mattress. However, the waterproof barrier provided by the mattress protector can make some people feel hot or sweaty, especially if they are already prone to overheating whilst sleeping.

If you are concerned that the mattress protector might increase sweating in the night, perhaps you could try a draw sheet placed under the bed sheet instead. Draw sheets don’t have a waterproof layer but instead absorb any dampness caused by sweating. You could also consider a bed pad which although it has a waterproof layer inside, has a comfortable fabric outer cover and can absorb an enormous amount of liquid and damp.

 

You might also be interested in these related articles:

 

Where to buy slipper socks?

If you are looking for dependable non-slip socks with latex-free tread then Interweave offers a full range of sizes in different styles.

We have a full range of single tread, double tread and fall prevention slipper socks available for purchase through our website, via the NHS Supply Chain (if you are buying products for the NHS), or from us directly over the phone or by email.

Slipper socks single tread - colours
Single tread slipper socks
Slipper socks double tread - colours
Double tread slipper socks
Fall prevention slipper socks - colours
Fall prevention slipper socks

 

What size sheets do you need for a hospital bed?

Hospital bed linen is typically a standard or extra long size to fit hospital beds. Our hospital quality bed linen comes in a standard size of 178cm x 275cm, or extra long 175cm x 300cm.

However, if you don’t know the exact mattress size, you could use stretchy bed linen that fits any size of single bed. The Interfit range of hospital bedding is constructed from four-way stretch fabric that makes changing hospital bed linen very quick and easy, even for just one person. The Interfit knitted fitted bottom sheets and semi-fitted top sheets are so stretchy they will comfortably fit any single bed.

You might also be interested in:

 

Why do hospital gowns open in the back?

Hospital gowns with an open back are designed to allow medical staff easy access to whichever part of the patient is required.

We supply the following styles of hospital gown:

The Lapover Gown – Used by hospitals across the UK, patients say this gown is comfortable and easy to put on. The gown is fastened with colour-coded ties at the back.

The Dignity Gown – this gown has a full-width wrapover layer which offers the patient more dignity than other gowns. It is reversible, and can fasten at the front or the back depending on what is appropriate for the procedure.

The Operation Gown – this is a unisex gown which fastens at the back. It can be easily removed during a surgical procedure.

The Popper Gown – this gown features popper fastenings down the back and also across the shoulders. This allows for removal of the gown even when a patient has IV lines into the arms.

The Pullover Gown – with no ties or poppers, this gown simply pulls over the patient’s head.

The Three Arm Toga Gown – this gown offers a full wrapover for more patient dignity than the traditional lapover gown. There are no fastenings – the third arm simply wraps around the body and goes over the first arm.

The Mammography Gown – this gown is specially designed to pull over the head to cover the upper body.

The Bariatric Gown – our bariatric gowns come in size 4XL and size 10XL. These are both adaptations of the lapover gown design, with fabric ties.

Hospital gown opens at the back
Hospital gown opens at the back

 

You might also be interested in:

Who invented the hospital gown?

hospital gown with open back
Simple style hospital gown with opening at the back

The original hospital gown was designed around 100 years ago for use on patients admitted the night before surgery, who were sedated prior to transfer to the anesthetic room whilst half asleep. However, if you’re hoping to find out who invented the hospital gown, unfortunately it’s not known who actually originally invented the gown.

Original hospital gowns had a very simple design, with an open back. Now this design is hated by many – patients and practitioners alike. The humiliation of wearing a hospital gown with a “draughty back” adds unnecessary anxiety for patients who are already nervous about upcoming medical procedures.

Modern hospital gowns have been designed to provide more dignity for patients and to ease the anxiety of an already difficult situation. This is not a new problem however. Ten years ago, we collaborated with TrusTech between 2010-2012 to develop a dignity hospital gown. Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust were early adopters of this new gown. Read more about their input and findings.

View the Interweave Dignity Patient Gown product details

Where can I buy hospital bed sheets?

Interweave supplies a wide range of hospital bed sheets to healthcare organisations such as the NHS, private hospitals, care homes and contract laundries. The bed sheets are available in either single or double size. The single sheets are available in standard length or the longer length for hospital beds.

Choose fitted sheets or flat bed sheets from a variety of fabrics, all kept in stock and available for immediate delivery: polycotton sheets, cotton rich sheets, flame resistant polyester sheets, interfit fitted sheet, interfit semi-fitted top sheetnon-woven disposable sheets and matching pillowcases.

For children’s wards, we stock cot sheets in polycotton and cotton rich fabrics.

You may also be interested in protective draw sheets and mattress protectors.

What are hospital pillows made of?

The most commonly used pillows in hospital are made using a polyester hollowfibre filling and a polycotton cover. View this pillow

Some hospital pillows have wipe clean fabric, other hospital pillows are flame retardant and fully waterproof with ultrasonically welded seams to prevent leakage.

Hospitals typically stock a range of different pillows for particular scenarios in wards and departments.

How much weight should be in a weighted blanket?

The weighted blanket should be purchased for the individual who will be using it, as it needs to be approximately 10%-15% of their body weight to work effectively.

This amount of weight provides the body with the effects of Deep Touch Pressure (DTP), which gently applies surface pressure all over the body and releases serotonin and dopamine, biological chemicals that promote relaxation.

In the case of the Interweave weighted blanket, select the appropriate weight from the list below.

In metric measurements:

Body weight: 32kg to 44kg = 3.2kg blanket

Body weight: 45kg to 59kg = 4.5kg blanket

Body weight: 60kg to 69kg = 6kg blanket

Body weight: 70kg to 79kg = 7kg blanket

Body weight: 80kg to 94kg = 8kg blanket

Body weight: 95kg upwards = 9.5kg blanket

 

In Imperial measurements:

Body weight: 5st to 6st 13lbs = 3.2kg blanket

Body weight: 7st to 9st 4lbs = 4.5kg blanket

Body weight: 9st 5lbs to 10st 13lbs = 6kg blanket

Body weight: 11st to 12st 6lbs = 7kg blanket

Body weight: 12st 7lbs to 14st 11lbs = 8kg blanket

Body weight: 14st 12lbs upwards = 9.5kg blanket

What is the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction is a value that describes the force of friction between two surfaces. A low value indicates a low level of friction (slippy). A high value indicates a high level of friction (not at all slippy). Here’s a technical explanation of this.

On the Interweave website you may notice that we describe the slide sheets as having a low coefficient of friction. As a result, the surfaces of the slide sheets are extremely slippy when placed next to each other. In short, a low value is ideal for a slide sheet!

What is seclusion bedding?

Seclusion bedding is designed specifically to be anti-ligature, which means that the person using the bedding can’t easily rip the bedding to create a noose. The fabric used to create the mattress cover, blanket and sealed pillow is a heavyweight jacquard polyester material.

What is seclusion bedding
Channel stitching

The fabric features hand-crafted strong double channel stitching to prevent ripping. For this reason, seclusion bedding is used in secure facilities such as mental health facilities and police cells.

What is a draw sheet?

A draw sheet is a thick flat sheet used on top of the bed mattress to protect the mattress. The bed sheets are fitted on top. Whilst a draw sheet isn’t designed to be super absorbent; it will absorb a small amount of fluid, from accidental leaks and sweat. A waterproof mattress protector might need to be used as well if more protection is required.

The Interweave range includes unbleached cotton or soft white flannelette cotton. The extra layer of fabric between the bed sheets and the mattress will provide some extra warmth and comfort when lying in bed, especially if the person spends a long time in bed.

what is a draw sheet - unbleached cotton draw sheet
Unbleached cotton
Flannelette cotton draw sheet
Flannelette cotton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is a slide sheet?

A sliding sheet is a patient handling aid, used in hospitals, clinics and care homes. When used correctly, the slide sheet is designed to prevent back injuries for the nurses and carers. Useful when moving patients from one bed to another, or to help roll the patient over to the other side.

Made from very slippy material, typically a silicon coated nylon or silicon coated polyester, it ensures that the patient movement is smooth and easy to do.

Some nurses prefer the flat style and will typically use two flats, one on top of the other. Others like to use a tubular style. Alternatively, you can opt to use a flat slide sheet with handles.

What is a slide sheet?
Different styles of slide sheets

 

What is thermal disinfection?

Thermal disinfection is a process that removes infections such as bacteria and viruses from fabric, through the use of hot water. To thermally disinfect something, the items must be washed in very hot water, at least 71 degrees.

In healthcare environments, it’s vitally important to be able to thermally disinfect all soft surfaces, such as patient gowns, scrub suits, blankets and other bedding. This prevents cross-infection between staff and patients.

View all Interweave’s products that can be thermally disinfected

How wide is a double bed?

In the UK, a standard double bed is 4 foot and 6 inches wide, or 135cm. Double bed sheets fit the 135cm width mattress. However in some other European countries, such as Belgium, Greece and Finland, a “double bed” is 160cm wide.

When buying bedding, it’s most important to ensure that the fitted sheet and mattress protectors are the correct size – it matters less if the top flat sheet and duvet are too large.

How long is a single bed?

In the UK, a single bed measures 190cm long. However, a European single bed which is popular for bunk beds and day beds measures 200cm long.

How to tie a hospital gown?

First, remove your own clothing. You may be able to leave on your underwear, but check with a nurse first. The orientation of the gown opening will depend on what level of access medical staff may need. You should have been advised whether to put the gown on with the ties at the front or back. Put the gown on as advised and fasten the ties. In the case of our hospital gowns such as the popular Lapover gown, the ties are colour coded so you know which ties are to be tied to each other.

Handy tip: If you feel uncomfortable in just one gown, ask for a second gown to wear over the first to provide extra coverage.

How often should you change bed sheets?

According to Good Housekeeping, bed sheets should be washed once every two weeks. Unless someone sweats a lot in bed or has been ill in bed – in which case the bed sheets should be washed immediately.

The reason for regular washing is mainly to remove bed dust mites and the detritus they leave behind after munching on your dead human skin. Bed sheets should be washed at high temperatures to remove bacteria effectively. It’s also important to dry the sheets as quickly as possibly to remove the risk of mould and rot forming.

How do I choose which size slipper socks to buy?

Ever wondered about the hospital socks colour code? Each colour pertains to a size so they are easily found for patients.

Look at the Data Sheet to find the UK shoe size. The size chart in the Data Sheet has been designed to conform with NHS slipper sock size guidelines.

Slipper sock size chart

However, we recommend that you buy the next size up in all cases, to ensure that they are not too tight.

For example if your feet are UK shoe size 7, please buy the XL slipper socks.

If your feet are swollen, please consider buying two sizes larger, for example if your feet are UK shoe size 7 but they are swollen, please buy size XXL.

 

How should the slipper socks fit?

The slipper socks should fit like ankle socks. They are not designed to be long socks.

The non-slip tread should go under the foot and up the back of the heel, as shown in photo.

Slipper socks non-slip tread

The reason the tread goes up the back of the heel is because we had feedback from specialist Stroke nursing staff to say that stroke patients tended to use the backs of their heels to try and stand up.

NHS hospital socks are available in a range of sizes, ensure you size up with swollen feet to provide adequate safety and comfort.

Further reading:
What is the difference between single tread and double tread slipper socks?
How do I choose which size slipper socks to buy?
What are slipper socks?
How do I know which size to buy?

More FAQs

What is the difference between single tread and double tread slipper socks?

Single tread has the non-slip tread under the foot.

single tread socks

Double tread has tread on the bottom of the foot and on top of the foot.

double tread socks

Some patients find that the socks become twisted on the foot as they walk, especially if they are finding it difficult to lift their feet off the floor. When the sock twists, the double tread socks still provide the non-slip surface to grip to the floor and prevent falls.

What is anti-ligature?

This indicates a product designed to deter the making of ligatures. A ligature is something used to tie or bind. In the seclusion environment, this is usually to prevent suicide by hanging. Please note that “anti-ligature” does not mean it is impossible to make ligatures, only that it should be much harder to do so than with standard clothing and bedding products, especially when combined with supervision.

Anti-ligature textile items, such as bedding and clothing, are designed to be hard to rip. This prevents the user from creating strips of fabric to attach to a ligature anchor point. No fabric can be classed as unrippable; given time and determination, these products may possibly be deconstructed by a patient intent on self-harm. We recommend that the person wearing and using anti-ligature clothing and bedding is monitored to avoid any deliberate damage.

View our range of anti-ligature bedding and clothing

Who wears scrubs?

Scrubs are most commonly associated with hospitals and doctors, it may even conjure up the image of the TV show “Scrubs” in your mind! However, scrubs are actually worn in many professions.

You might find nurses, dentists, vets, midwives, carers, massage therapists, orthodontists, osteopaths and aestheticians wearing scrubs for work. People working in these professions come in to close contact with people, so hygiene is paramount.

View our range of scrubs online.

 

Where to buy hospital blankets?

We stock a range of blankets typically used in hospitals.

Large lap blanket

  • 100% polyester
  • Complies with BS EN 128952 fire retardancy regulations
  • Available in 6 colours
  • Smaller size for easy use and ideal when being transported between locations

Small lap blanket

  • Available in 5 colours
  • Smaller size typically used just for laps and legs
  • Complies with BS EN 12952 fire retardancy regulations
  • 100& polyester

Premium thermal throw

  • 100% polyester
  • Complies with BS EN 12852 fire retardancy regulations
  • Washable at high temperatures
  • Designed for single beds

Elite thermal throw

  • Single bed size
  • Available in several colours
  • 100% polyester
  • Complies with BS EN 12952 fire retardancy regulations

Heavyweight thermal throw

  • Comforting heavier layer to aid sleep
  • Single bed size
  • 100% polyester
  • Complies with BS EN 12852 fire retardancy regulations

Cotton cellular blanket

  • 100% cotton
  • Measures 178cm x 228cm
  • Launderable at high temperatures

Polar fleece blanket

  • 100% knitted polyester
  • Soft and comfortable
  • Machine washable
  • Cost effective

Polyester cellular blanket

  • Single bed size
  • 100% coloured polyester
  • Five colours available
  • Open weave prevents overheating
  • Can be laundered at high temperatures

What are the best socks for swollen feet?

If you suffer from swollen feet, this may make it more difficult to walk and balance easily. Slipper socks are the best type of sock to ensure your safety, as they help prevent slips and falls.

We stock a range of sizes, our double tread slipper socks run up to a 3XL. We recommend that you buy a size larger than your regular shoe size in these socks if you have swollen feet, for a more comfortable experience.

See our slipper socks range here

What is GSM in towels?

If you have ever looked at buying towels online and been confused by what gsm actually means, you’re not alone. GSM simply means the grams per square metre. Therefore, a low GSM number for a towel would be lighter and thinner.

The higher the number, the thicker and heavier the towel is. For example, our mirage bath sheet is 480gsm, described as a medium weight and the perfect balance of light, fluffy and absorbent.

See our range of towels here

How to prevent bed sores in hospital?

During your hospital stay, staff should ensure your skin is monitored and cleaned regularly. However, if you want to take extra steps to prevent any sores or irritation, there are some things you can do. Keep your skin clean and dry, excess moisture can lead to skin irritations.

Try to use water based skincare products such as moisturiser. Ask the staff for any protective materials you feel you need, such as heel protectors. Try to get out of bed when possible to relieve the pressure on your skin.

Remember you can ask for any help you may need, speak to your caregiver about your concerns and put a plan in place to look after your skin. Our interfit bed sheets do not crease, which minimises the likelihood of pressure sores.

View our creaseless bedding range here 

Why are hospital blankets so warm

Some people wonder why are hospital blankets 4so warm. Well, for obvious reasons, hospital blankets are used to ensure that severely ill patients are kept at the right temperature to regulate their body temperature whilst in hospital.

Hospitals use different types of blankets on different wards – a common hospital blanket is a cellular blanket. These blankets are considered warm as they provide an extra layer of warmth. The holes in the blanket allow air to move into the fibres, this heats up with the warmth of the body, and this warm air is then trapped inside the layers. This process means the blanket warms up faster than non cellular blankets, which is why they are a popular choice for patients.

Other types of hospital blankets are the thermal throw blankets. These are designed with small woven pockets which, like the cellular blanket, traps warmth. Despite being very lightweight they are relied on by hospitals to provide warmth when needed, without overheating a patient.

Can doctors wear long sleeves underscrubs?

Many medical professionals wear a base layer sometimes called underscrubs underneath their scrubs for warmth, especially in colder weather.

However, often it is hospital policy that sleeves must not be longer than the sleeve of the scrub top, for hygiene reasons.  Each healthcare facility will be different. If you’re unsure, you can talk to your supervisor to find out whether long sleeved base layers for scrubs are appropriate for your role.

What colour scrubs do UK doctors wear?

If you are looking to find out which scrub colours for NHS doctors.. This varies depending on the hospital regulations and sometimes personal preference. Some hospitals use scrub colours to differentiate between patient care departments and roles within a hospital. You may find that location, private or NHS and type of facility make a difference to the colour of a doctors scrubs too.

We stock a range of 8 scrub colours commonly used by the NHS.

Scrub colours for doctors

 

What are hospital gowns made of?

Hospital gowns will be made from different hospital gown fabric depending on where they are purchased from. Some are made from polyester, some are cotton and others are polycotton.

All our Interweave hospital gowns are made of a hospital wash friendly 50/50 polycotton.

Hospital gown fabric
Popular lapover gown is made from polycotton hospital gown fabric

What does the tog rating mean for duvets?

The tog rating tells you how effectively the duvet insulates heat. If you are looking for a warm duvet, you need to look for a higher tog rating. Take a look at our variety of duvets with different tog ratings.

What is the size of a bath sheet towel?

Bath sheet towels sizes can vary by brand, however, a bath sheet is typically around 90cm x 150cm. It may be a little larger or smaller dependent on the brand. Our range of bath sheets are available to buy online.

What is a cellular blanket?

A cellular blanket is a blanket with cell-like holes woven into the pattern. This style of weave allows air to move through the fibres. This wraps warm air inside the layers. Find out more about cellular blankets

What is hollowfibre?

Hollowfibre is a type of polyester strand that is found in pillows and duvets. It is a fine, hollow type of strand which is synthetic. Hollowfibre products tend to be warm and good for those with allergies to real feathers.

What is a tea towel?

A tea towel is a traditional piece of kitchen linen, used for a variety of reasons. Usually a rectangular piece of linen or cotton cloth that you may use either to mop up spillages or dry wet dishes and cooking utensils after washing up. Read more about kitchen linen and tea towels

What is a bed wedge?

A bed wedge is a type of pillow which supports the spine. It is a triangular shaped pillow which is used on top of a mattress to keep a person lying straight in their beds. It can be used for various medical conditions.

What size are bariatric non slip socks?

Bariatric size slipper socks are a 3XL. The sock stretches 44cm around the foot. And stretches to 64cm around the ankle and lower calf.

Full list of measurements

Non-slip tread length: 28cm

Sock length: 55cm

Sock circumference (not stretched): 24cm

Sock circumference around foot (at full stretch): 44cm

Sock circumference around ankle and lower calf (at full stretch): 64cm

 

bariatric oedema socks

View product details

How often should you buy towels?

If your towel is looking damaged, such as lose threads or is feeling rough, it is time to replace them. As a rough guide, one to two years is a good amount of time to keep a towel.

What is a slipper sock?

A slipper sock is a type of non slip sock which has a tread underneath the foot, or sometimes it has tread on the top and sole of the foot. A slipper sock is usually given to patients in hospital, to allow them to feel safer when walking around. Typically worn instead of slippers. See slipper socks. 

Where can I buy hospital slipper socks?

We stock a range of slipper socks, in various sizes. Our hospital socks are colour coded to match their size, as they are used in hospitals. You can choose from fall prevention, or double tread. These socks have grip on either side of the sock, to ensure that the wearer is covered even if the sock turns around.

You can purchase fall prevention or double tread hospital slipper socks online on this website.

How much does delivery cost?

For orders over £50 including VAT, delivery is free to UK mainland addresses.  The delivery cost for your order to your address will be calculated in the checkout. Orders under £50 will be subject to delivery charges.

For more information about delivery, click here or contact us.

When will my order be dispatched?

As we hold large quantities of stock, we will be able to fulfil your order straight away in the majority of cases. However, this only applies to products available for 1-2 day despatch. In all cases, your order will be despatched as soon as possible. If you place an order before 3pm on a working day (see our opening hours), your parcel will be despatched within 48 hours.

How do I track my delivery?

Tracking is only available for orders over £50. If your delivery is to a UK mainland address, you will receive an email with a link to the parcel tracker service provided by either Parcelforce, APC or DX. Track your delivery online by clicking the link.

If your delivery address is not in mainland UK, please contact us with any delivery queries.

What should I do if my delivery is late?

Please allow at least 5 days for your parcel to arrive. Following the 5 days, please contact us to let us know that your delivery is late, so that we can open an official case with the carrier and investigate your missing delivery further.

How does the UK mainland delivery service work?

Deliveries to UK mainland addresses are despatched within 48 hours (if the order is received by 3pm). Deliveries are despatched during working days, i.e. Monday to Friday, except on public holidays. However, if your order is received after 3pm on Friday, it will not be processed for despatch until the following week.

I live in the UK but not mainland, how long will my delivery take?

Northern Ireland:  Your delivery will take 3-5 days to arrive after despatch.

Scottish Highlands, Isle of Wight, Channel Islands, Isle of Man: Your delivery will take 3-5 days to arrive after despatch.

Do you deliver overseas?

Yes, we can deliver to non-UK addresses, add your desired items to the basket and use the calculate shipping tool. If your country is not available to select, please contact us so we can help you.

What is your refunds policy?

To be eligible for a refund, the item/s must be either unused and in the same condition that you received it and be returned in the original packaging so that it is fit for resale; or be faulty at the time of delivery. Please read our returns policy for more information.

My delivery has arrived but is incomplete, what can I do?

Please refer to your delivery note to check that we haven’t despatched a part-order. If the delivery note shows the complete order please contact us as soon as possible, we’ll sort it out for you.

I’ve received a faulty item, what do I do?

Please contact us as soon as possible, we’ll sort it out for you.

How do I return something to you?

Please send the items in original package with the delivery note, to our warehouse: Victoria Works, Whitwell Green Lane, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 9BJ.

Once your returned items are received and inspected, you will receive an email to notify you that we have received your returned item/s and that the packaging is intact. We will also notify you of the status of your refund application shortly after. Please read our returns policy for more information.

Can I return something and receive an exchange?

Unfortunately we do not offer exchanges unless an item is defective, please see our returns policy for more information.

Is there a time limit for returns?

You have 31 days to return the item to us. Please read our returns policy for more information.

What are the benefits of opening an online account?

Open an online account and you’ll find it much easier and quicker to purchase from us next time. Once you login to the website, all your details will be pre-populated so you don’t have to tell us your payment and delivery details again.

Repeat ordering: You will also be able to use the Quick Order form, which provides an easy way to re-order items you’ve purchased from us in the past.

Previous orders: You will be able to view a list of all previous orders online, included order date, items ordered, order number and a total order cost.

I’ve forgotten my password, what do I do?

Please use the “Forgotten password” link on the login page, then you will receive an email with a link to set a new password yourself. This is the quickest and easiest way to change your password. Alternatively, you could contact us and our team will do their best to assist you.

 

How can I get in touch with your Customer Services team?

Please use the details on the Contact page, you can either send an email or phone us. Office opening hours are 8:30am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

I’m having problems logging into my online account, what should I do?

Please use the forgotten password link to have a new password emailed to you. If you have forgotten the email address you used to log in, please contact us for some help.

I’d like to close my online account, how do I do this?

We’re sorry to see you go but please contact us, we’ll be able to help close down your online account.

How do I dispose of old pillows and duvets?

Duvet rolled up
Duvets & pillows

Generally, household waste collectors won’t accept old duvets and pillows. Commercial waste collecting companies will accept old duvets and pillows in the landfill bin. However as they’re so large, they will take up a lot of space.

Unfortunately, every year 14 million duvets, pillows and mattress toppers end up in UK landfills! So thinking of an alternative to this disposal method would be much better for the environment.

Some eco-friendly ideas you might want to consider:

Pet bedding: Some people recommend trying to donate them to a local pet refuge or sanctuary. Equally a pet charity shop may be able to take them. For example the RSPCA, who may be interested in taking old pillows and duvets for animal bedding.

Other people suggest asking colleagues, friends and family who own dogs or cats to see if they want them for pet bedding. There are approximately 12 million pet dogs and 11 million pet cats in the UK! There should be some opportunities there. Try listing your duvets and pillows on Freecycle, Olio or ilovefreegle websites.

Rabbit owners who keep their pets outdoors may be grateful for old duvets. They can wrap it around the outside of the hutch with a layer of waterproof tarpaulin on top. This acts as insulation to keep the rabbit warmer over winter. Estimates show that there may be approximately 1 million pet rabbits, of which 2/3rds are kept in outdoor hutches.

Homeless shelters: Likewise, some homeless shelters may accept donations of old pillows and duvets, as well as any old blankets.

Upcycle: Perhaps you could find a way to recycle the duvet or pillow at home or in the workplace. Such as cutting the duvet and pillows into smaller pieces and use to clean the floors, or wash vehicles. If you are handy with a sewing machine, the duvet or pillow filling could be upcycled into a craft project.  Or take out the filling and use it to fill draught excluders or floor cushions.

Composting: Other people have put cotton and feather duvets in compost bins and they have over time biodegraded down to mulch. But remember that you will need to remove all poppers, labels etc before putting in the compost bin.

If all else fails: It’s worth contacting your local council, or check the recycling policies on their website to see if they have any services for this.  Find your local council website

 

You may like to:

Read other Frequently Asked Questions

Such as How often should you change bed sheets?

Or Do mattress protectors make you sweat? 

Or find out How many hospitals are there in the UK?

 

How do I use a slide sheet?

Slide sheets are used to move patients in a variety of different ways. Used in hospitals, clinics, care homes and in the home; they provide an easier way of moving or transferring somebody without the nurse or carer suffering an injury. Back injury is particularly common and can be avoided with the use of a slide sheet. For this reason, Interweave Healthcare is a member of the National Back Exchange.

Some people prefer to use two flat slide sheets, one on top of the other, which are then placed underneath the patient.

Or you could use a tubular one which is sewn in a circular loop. Placed under the patient with the looped (not open) side positioned in the direction of movement.

To place the slide sheet/s under a patient, firstly turn the patient over onto one side. Then position it beneath them, flat on the bed or trolley. Gently roll the patient to lie flat on their back again. Then do the same on the other side. It should now be positioned correctly.

Pick up the top slide sheet (or the top looped part of a tubular one) and gently pull in the direction of movement. You might find that flat slide sheets with in-built handles are easier to use.

Always make very slow movements, as they are very slippy. You want to avoid the person sliding off the bed entirely!

IMPORTANT: Please note that professional patient handling training is vital for anyone attempting to use a slide sheet.

Who wears blue scrubs?

In NHS England hospitals, some theatre staff wear light or mid blue scrubs, so do A&E staff nurses, nurses and sisters. Sometimes, NHS England consultants and hospital doctors wear blue theatre scrubs too.

In NHS Scotland hospitals, you’ll see nurses and midwives wearing mid blue uniforms and clinical support staff wearing pale sky-blue uniforms.

In NHS Wales hospitals, scrubs are only worn in operating theatres. However, the following staff do wear blue nursing tunics: staff nurses, sisters / charge nurses, clinical nurse specialists and midwives.

In private hospitals, clinics, veterinary practices, GP surgeries and residential care homes you may see staff wearing blue scrubs too. Each business will have their own proprietary dress code to adhere to. So, as you can see, it’s difficult to be precise about who wears blue scrubs.

You may be interested in browsing the Interweave performance scrub suits

How do I put on a scrub suit?

Hospital staff wearing scrubs suits in theatre must follow the strict instructions provided by the hospital. If you are a medical student or new to your scrub wearing profession, you may not know how to wear scrubs.

The following are typical instructions on how to wear scrubs:

  1. Put on the short sleeved scrub top over your head. Make sure that any undergarments are fully covered. The sleeves would ideally be at least 10cm above the elbow to avoid getting wet sleeves.
  2. Put on the scrub trousers, again making sure any undergarments are fully covered. Pull the tie-waist closed. Make sure that the trouser legs do not touch the floor at all, to avoid transferring bacteria from one area to another.
  3. Wear closed toe non-slip theatre shoes or boots.
  4. Hair must be completely covered with a clean, disposable theatre hat. Beards must be covered with a beard hood.
  5. Follow the set scrub up procedure, which involves intensive hand and arm washing for at least 5 minutes, to remove bacteria on the skin and in the top layers of skin.
  6. Finally, put on a surgical mask over your face and put on your protective spectacles.

If you are wearing a scrub suit for any other purpose, e.g. it’s your nursing uniform and you won’t need to enter an operating theatre, you can wear your scrub top over another piece of clothing such as a t-shirt or vest.

The Interweave Performance scrub suits are fully reversible. For the scrub top you wear it with the v-neck at the front and you can wear it inside out as the stitching is fully enclosed and there are pockets on both sides.  For the scrub trousers, the stitching is again fully enclosed and there are pockets on both the inside and outside, meaning you can turn them inside out to wear them.

What can I do if I am not happy with the service?

We try very hard to provide high quality customer service to all our customers, so if you felt the service could have been better please do contact us and send an email outlining any issues you have experienced. We welcome the opportunity to listen to your feedback and make improvements to make sure we are constantly striving for excellence.

How do I unsubscribe from Interweave marketing emails?

If you would like to stop receiving marketing communications from us, please open up a previous email you have received from Interweave and click the Unsubscribe link at the bottom of the email. This will automatically prevent us from sending you any email marketing messages.

Otherwise, if you can’t find a previous email please contact us to request that we opt you out.

Please note that even if you have unsubscribed from marketing communications, our Customer Services team will still be in touch with you about any orders you have placed as part of our after-sales service.

What is a healthcare associated infection?

A Healthcare Associated Infection (or Hospital Acquired Infection as they are sometimes known) are infections that patients pick up while they are staying in hospital. Infections are most likely to be acquired during surgery. They can also be contracted whilst receiving treatment such as an IV or PICC line.

The two most common healthcare associated infections are MRSA (or methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus) and Clostridium difficile.

Healthcare providers have strict guidelines to follow to prevent spreading infections to patients. These guidelines include effective hand washing, safe disposal of used equipment, appropriate use of catheters; as well as the use of cubicle curtains that have antimicrobial treatment.

How does fire retardant work?

Flame retardant products have been treated with chemicals that prevent the start of a fire; or try to reduce the growth of fire if it cannot be prevented.

There are various ways in which these chemicals try to prevent fires. They may use a cooling process, they may form a protective later or they may use dilution. Fire retardant treatments can be found in powder form, foams, gels, coatings or sprays.

We stock a variety of different fire retardant products such as bedding, compliant with different regulations.

Take a look at our fire retardant bedding

Do charity shops take duvets?

Donating old duvets? Charity shops may not specifically ask for old duvet donations, but you can check with your local charity shops to see if this is something they will take. Although most charity shops do not accept old duvets for hygiene reasons.

You can try your local animal shelters and vets, to see if they can be repurposed for the animals. Alternatively, try local homeless shelters and see if they will accept any donations.

Read another FAQ: How to dispose of old pillows and duvets for more ideas.

How to prevent bed sores in hospital?

During your hospital stay, staff should ensure your skin is monitored and cleaned regularly. However, if you want to take extra steps to prevent any sores or irritation, there are some things you can do. Keep your skin clean and dry, excess moisture can lead to skin irritations.

Try to use water based skincare products such as moisturiser. Ask the staff for any protective materials you feel you need, such as heel protectors. Try to get out of bed when possible to relieve the pressure on your skin.

Remember you can ask for any help you may need, speak to your caregiver about your concerns and put a plan in place to look after your skin. Our interfit bed sheets do not crease, which minimises the likelihood of pressure sores.

View our creaseless bedding range here 

What does the tog rating mean for duvets?

The tog rating tells you how effectively the duvet insulates heat. If you are looking for a warm duvet, you need to look for a higher tog rating. Take a look at our variety of duvets with different tog ratings.

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