Reusable Cubicle Curtains for Healthcare: Wipe-Clean, Antimicrobial & Cost Explained

Reusable cubicle curtains are designed for healthcare environments where privacy, hygiene, durability and operational efficiency all need to work together.

Unlike disposable cubicle curtains, reusable healthcare curtains are intended to remain in service for longer periods and be cleaned in place rather than routinely removed, laundered and replaced.

The Stericurtain reusable curtain range uses a PVC-laminated polyester fabric with a waterproof, wipe-clean surface, allowing staff to clean the curtain in situ using standard hospital detergents. It also incorporates Biosafe® antimicrobial treatment and is designed for repeated use in clinical settings.

For healthcare procurement teams, facilities managers and infection-control staff, the main considerations are:

• Wipe-clean construction
• Antimicrobial treatment
• Waterproof surface
• Fire-retardant performance
• Ease of in-situ cleaning
• Track compatibility
• Durability
• Long-term cost
• Waste reduction
• Curtain size and fit
• Warranty and service life

This guide explains how reusable cubicle curtains differ from disposable options, what technical features matter most, and how to assess whether a wipe-clean reusable curtain is the right choice for a hospital, clinic, GP surgery or other healthcare facility.

Quick Answer: What Is a Reusable Healthcare Cubicle Curtain?

A reusable healthcare cubicle curtain is a privacy curtain designed for repeated use in hospitals, clinics, GP surgeries and other medical settings.

Instead of being removed and discarded after use, it is intended to remain in service and be cleaned in place.

The Stericurtain reusable curtain is designed with a waterproof, wipe-clean surface that can be sanitised in situ using standard hospital detergents.

What Makes It Different?

A reusable wipe-clean cubicle curtain is designed to offer:

• Repeated use
• In-situ cleaning
• Waterproof construction
• Antimicrobial treatment
• No routine laundering requirement
• Reduced need for curtain replacement
• Long-term service in healthcare environments

Why Healthcare Facilities Use Them

The main advantage is operational.

Staff can clean the curtain where it hangs rather than removing it, sending it for laundering and reinstalling it later.

This can help reduce:

• Curtain handling
• Laundry requirements
• Replacement frequency
• Downtime during cleaning
• Ongoing single-use curtain waste

What Should Buyers Check?

When choosing a reusable healthcare curtain, confirm:

• The material
• Whether it is fully wipe-clean
• Antimicrobial treatment
• Fire-retardant performance
• Track compatibility
• Curtain size
• Cleaning requirements
• Expected service life
• Warranty
• Long-term cost

The key difference is simple:

A reusable cubicle curtain is designed to stay in service and be cleaned in place, rather than repeatedly removed, laundered or replaced.

What Is a Wipe-Clean Cubicle Curtain?

A wipe-clean cubicle curtain is designed with a non-absorbent, waterproof surface that can be cleaned while the curtain remains installed on the track.

Instead of removing the curtain for laundering, staff can clean the surface in situ using suitable hospital detergents.

How Is It Different From a Traditional Fabric Curtain?

Traditional textile cubicle curtains usually need to be:

• Removed from the track
• Collected for laundering
• Washed and dried
• Returned to the clinical area
• Rehung

A wipe-clean curtain is designed to avoid that routine laundry cycle.

Why the Surface Construction Matters

The Stericurtain reusable curtain uses a PVC-laminated polyester fabric, giving it a waterproof surface that can be wiped down rather than absorbing moisture into the material.

That makes it suitable for repeated cleaning in healthcare environments.

What Are the Main Benefits?

A wipe-clean cubicle curtain can help provide:

• In-situ cleaning
• Reduced laundry requirements
• Faster turnaround after cleaning
• Less handling during routine maintenance
• Longer service life than single-use curtains
• A consistent privacy screen without frequent removal

Does Wipe-Clean Mean Maintenance-Free?

No.

The curtain still needs to be:

• Cleaned at appropriate intervals
• Wiped after contamination
• Inspected for damage
• Maintained in line with local healthcare procedures
• Replaced if it becomes damaged or no longer suitable for use

Practical Takeaway

A wipe-clean cubicle curtain is designed to stay in place and be cleaned repeatedly, making it a practical option for healthcare environments that want to reduce laundry handling and repeated curtain replacement.

Why In-Situ Cleaning Matters in Healthcare

In-situ cleaning allows a reusable cubicle curtain to be cleaned while it remains installed on the track.

For healthcare facilities, this can simplify routine cleaning and reduce the operational work involved in removing, transporting and rehanging curtains.

Reduced Handling

Every time a conventional curtain is removed for laundering, it has to be:

• Taken down
• Handled by staff
• Transported
• Cleaned
• Returned
• Reinstalled

A wipe-clean reusable curtain reduces the need for that repeated handling cycle.

Faster Bed or Bay Turnaround

Because the curtain can be cleaned where it hangs, the privacy screen can remain available during routine maintenance.

This can help reduce delays when:

• A bed space is being prepared
• A treatment bay is being cleaned
• A room needs to be returned to use quickly
• Curtains require surface cleaning between uses

No Routine Laundry Cycle

A reusable wipe-clean curtain does not need to enter a conventional laundry process after every cleaning event.

This can reduce:

• Laundry handling
• Transport to and from laundry facilities
• Rehanging time
• Dependence on clean replacement stock during routine cleaning

Easier Routine Surface Cleaning

A waterproof surface makes it possible to clean visible contamination directly from the curtain.

This is particularly useful in environments where the curtain is a high-contact surface and may need regular attention.

Supports a More Predictable Cleaning Process

Because the curtain stays in place, cleaning can be incorporated into a facility’s regular surface-cleaning procedures rather than treated as a separate laundry task.

That can make the process more consistent across:

• Hospital wards
• Treatment bays
• Clinics
• GP surgeries
• Examination areas

Practical Takeaway

The main advantage of in-situ cleaning is operational:

less removal + less handling + no routine laundry cycle + faster return to use

For busy healthcare settings, that can make reusable wipe-clean cubicle curtains easier to manage day to day.

How Should a Reusable Cubicle Curtain Be Cleaned?

A reusable wipe-clean cubicle curtain is designed to be cleaned in situ while it remains installed on the track.

The Stericurtain reusable curtain has a waterproof PVC-laminated surface that can be wiped using standard hospital detergents, removing surface contamination without requiring the curtain to be taken down for laundering.

Clean the Curtain Where It Hangs

The main advantage of this construction is that staff can clean the curtain as part of the surrounding clinical area.

This avoids the need to:

• Remove the curtain from the track
• Send it for laundering
• Store a replacement curtain during cleaning
• Rehang the curtain afterwards

Pay Particular Attention to High-Touch Areas

Areas used to open and close the curtain are likely to receive the most frequent hand contact.

These areas should therefore form an important part of routine cleaning.

Stericurtain includes designated Touch Point areas, providing an obvious wipeable location for handling the curtain.

Deal With Visible Contamination Promptly

The waterproof surface allows visible contamination, including bodily fluids, to be wiped from the curtain rather than absorbed into a conventional textile fabric.

Cleaning should follow the healthcare facility’s established procedures for the type of contamination involved.

Use Suitable Healthcare Cleaning Products

The curtain is designed for cleaning with standard hospital detergents.

Healthcare facilities should follow the cleaning product instructions and their own infection-control procedures when determining:

• Which detergent or cleaning product to use
• How frequently the curtain should be cleaned
• How visible contamination should be handled
• Whether additional cleaning is required in higher-risk clinical areas

Inspect the Curtain While Cleaning

Routine cleaning also provides an opportunity to check the curtain for:

• Surface damage
• Tears
• Damaged attachment points
• Excessive wear
• Any area that can no longer be cleaned effectively

A reusable curtain should remain in good physical condition throughout its service life.

Practical Takeaway

The principle is straightforward:

keep the curtain installed + clean the waterproof surface in situ + concentrate on high-touch areas + follow the facility’s established cleaning procedures.

This avoids the routine removal and laundry cycle associated with conventional washable cubicle curtains.

What Does Antimicrobial Mean on a Reusable Cubicle Curtain?

An antimicrobial reusable cubicle curtain is designed with a treatment that helps inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the curtain surface.

For healthcare environments, this can be a useful supporting feature because cubicle curtains are frequently touched and sit close to patients, staff and treatment areas.

Antimicrobial Treatment Is Built Into the Curtain

The Stericurtain reusable curtain incorporates Biosafe® antimicrobial treatment as part of its construction.

This means the antimicrobial property is part of the curtain material rather than something that needs to be reapplied during routine cleaning.

Antimicrobial Is Not the Same as Disinfection

An antimicrobial treatment helps support hygiene, but it does not replace normal cleaning.

The curtain still needs to be:

• Wiped regularly
• Cleaned after contamination
• Maintained according to local procedures
• Inspected for wear or damage

Routine surface cleaning remains essential.

Why It Matters on a High-Touch Surface

Cubicle curtains are commonly handled when patients or staff:

• Open the curtain
• Close the curtain
• Move between treatment spaces
• Create or remove privacy around a bed or examination area

Because of this repeated contact, antimicrobial treatment can add an extra layer of support alongside in-situ cleaning.

Best Used as Part of a Wider Cleaning Process

The strongest approach is to combine:

• Antimicrobial material
• Waterproof wipe-clean construction
• Routine surface cleaning
• Defined high-touch areas
• Appropriate local cleaning procedures

Practical Takeaway

Antimicrobial treatment should be viewed as an additional hygiene feature, not a substitute for cleaning.

On a reusable healthcare cubicle curtain, its value comes from working alongside the wipe-clean surface and regular in-situ cleaning process.

What Are Touch Point Areas?

Touch Point areas are designated sections of a reusable cubicle curtain intended to be used when opening and closing the curtain.

The Stericurtain reusable curtain includes contrasting Toscana Navy Touch Points, giving patients and staff a clear place to handle the curtain.

Why Touch Points Matter

Cubicle curtains are high-contact surfaces.

Without a designated handling area, people may grip different parts of the curtain throughout the day, spreading contact across a much larger surface.

A defined Touch Point helps concentrate routine handling in a more predictable location.

Easier to Clean

Because the Touch Point is clearly identifiable, staff can pay particular attention to it during routine cleaning.

This can make it easier to incorporate the curtain into regular high-touch surface cleaning.

Supports Consistent Handling

A visible handling area can also encourage more consistent use.

Instead of pulling the curtain from any convenient part of the fabric, users have an obvious place to grip.

Particularly Useful in Busy Clinical Areas

Touch Points can be especially practical in:

• Hospital wards
• Treatment bays
• Examination rooms
• GP surgeries
• Outpatient clinics
• Other areas where curtains are opened and closed frequently

Practical Takeaway

Touch Point areas provide a defined, wipeable handling zone on the curtain.

They do not replace routine cleaning, but they can make high-contact areas easier to identify, use and maintain.

What Material Are Reusable Healthcare Curtains Made From?

Reusable healthcare cubicle curtains need a material that can withstand repeated cleaning, regular handling and long-term use in a clinical environment.

The Stericurtain reusable curtain is made from 100% polyester with a PVC-laminated surface.

Why Use PVC-Laminated Polyester?

This construction combines a durable polyester base with a smooth, waterproof surface.

In practical terms, this gives the curtain several useful characteristics:

• Waterproof construction
• Wipe-clean surface
• Resistance to moisture absorption
• Suitability for repeated in-situ cleaning
• Greater durability than lightweight single-use curtain materials

Waterproof Construction Is Important

Traditional textile fabrics can absorb moisture and contamination into the fibres.

A PVC-laminated surface is non-absorbent, allowing liquids and surface contamination to be removed by wiping rather than soaking into the curtain.

This is particularly useful in clinical environments where regular surface cleaning is required.

Designed for Repeated Use

Because the curtain is intended to remain in service rather than be discarded after a short period, the material needs to tolerate:

• Frequent opening and closing
• Routine wiping
• Regular contact
• Repeated cleaning with suitable hospital detergents

The construction is therefore substantially different from the lightweight polypropylene commonly used for disposable cubicle curtains.

Material and Fire Performance

The Stericurtain material is also specified as flame retardant to BS 5867 Part 2 Type C, making fire performance part of the overall curtain specification as well as durability and hygiene.

Practical Takeaway

The material specification can be summarised as:

100% polyester + PVC-laminated surface + waterproof construction + wipe-clean performance + reusable durability

For healthcare buyers, this combination is what allows the curtain to remain installed and be cleaned repeatedly rather than routinely removed for laundering or replacement.

Why Waterproof Construction Matters

Waterproof construction is one of the main features that distinguishes a reusable wipe-clean cubicle curtain from a conventional textile curtain.

A waterproof surface allows the curtain to be cleaned repeatedly without moisture being absorbed into the fabric.

Helps With In-Situ Cleaning

Because the surface does not readily absorb liquids, staff can wipe the curtain while it remains installed.

This supports a simpler cleaning process in:

• Hospital wards
• Treatment bays
• GP surgeries
• Clinics
• Examination rooms

Useful Where Bodily Fluids May Be Present

In healthcare environments, curtains may occasionally come into contact with splashes, spills or bodily fluids.

A waterproof surface makes it easier to remove contamination from the curtain rather than allowing it to soak into the material.

Reduces the Need for Laundry

Traditional fabric curtains may need to be removed for laundering when they become contaminated.

A waterproof reusable curtain is designed to be cleaned in place, which can reduce:

• Curtain removal
• Laundry handling
• Transport
• Rehanging
• Replacement during cleaning

Supports Repeated Cleaning

Reusable curtains are intended to remain in service over a longer period.

Their surface therefore needs to tolerate repeated wiping with suitable hospital cleaning products without becoming unsuitable for use.

Practical Takeaway

Waterproof construction supports the main operating principle of a reusable healthcare curtain:

keep it installed + clean it in place + avoid unnecessary absorption into the fabric

That can make the curtain easier to maintain in busy clinical environments.

Durability: What Should Healthcare Buyers Look For?

Reusable cubicle curtains are intended to remain in service for longer periods, so durability is a key part of the specification.

The material needs to cope with regular handling, repeated wiping and everyday use in a busy healthcare environment without quickly deteriorating.

Resistance to Tearing and Damage

A reusable curtain should be robust enough to tolerate:

• Frequent opening and closing
• Repeated contact from patients and staff
• Routine cleaning
• Movement along the cubicle track
• Ongoing use over an extended period

The Stericurtain reusable curtain is made from a durable polyester PVC-laminated fabric designed for repeated use.

Surface Durability Matters

Because the curtain is cleaned in situ, the wipe-clean surface needs to remain suitable for regular cleaning.

Healthcare buyers should consider whether the material can continue to provide:

• A smooth wipeable surface
• Waterproof performance
• Consistent appearance
• Reliable day-to-day use

Check the Attachment Points

The curtain should also remain secure where it connects to the cubicle track.

Important areas include:

• Hooks
• Gliders
• Attachment points
• Seams
• Reinforced sections

These areas can receive repeated mechanical stress during use.

Long-Term Appearance

Durability is not only about whether the curtain still functions.

It should also continue to look suitable for a patient-facing environment.

That means avoiding materials that quickly become:

• Torn
• Stained
• Misshapen
• Difficult to clean
• Poorly draped

Warranty Can Be a Useful Indicator

The Stericurtain reusable curtain is supplied with a lifetime warranty, which supports its positioning as a long-term alternative to regularly replaced curtains.

For procurement teams, warranty terms can be useful when comparing:

• Expected service life
• Replacement risk
• Long-term cost
• Supplier support

Practical Takeaway

When assessing durability, look beyond the initial purchase price.

A reusable healthcare curtain should offer:

strong material construction + reliable attachment points + resistance to repeated cleaning + long service life + suitable warranty cover

For long-term procurement, these factors can be just as important as the curtain’s hygiene and fire-performance features.

Do Reusable Cubicle Curtains Need to Be Flame Retardant?

Yes. Fire performance remains an important part of the specification for reusable cubicle curtains used in hospitals, clinics and other healthcare environments.

Reusable curtains are still large hanging fabric surfaces, so they need to be suitable for use in non-domestic clinical settings.

BS 5867 Part 2 Type C

The Stericurtain reusable curtain is specified as flame retardant to BS 5867 Part 2 Type C.

This gives healthcare buyers a defined fire-performance benchmark rather than relying on a general statement such as “flame retardant”.

Why Fire Performance Still Matters

Reusable curtains may stay in service for long periods, so their fire-performance characteristics need to remain part of the procurement decision alongside:

• Cleaning
• Antimicrobial treatment
• Waterproof construction
• Durability
• Track compatibility
• Service life

Fire Performance Is Only One Part of the Specification

BS 5867 Part 2 Type C relates specifically to the curtain’s flammability performance.

It does not replace the need to check:

• Cleaning suitability
• Material construction
• Antimicrobial properties
• Curtain dimensions
• Track compatibility
• Warranty
• Maintenance requirements

Practical Takeaway

For reusable healthcare cubicle curtains, fire performance should be treated as a core technical requirement alongside hygiene, cleanability and durability.

A clearly stated BS 5867 Part 2 Type C specification gives procurement teams a defined standard to look for when comparing products.

Are Reusable Cubicle Curtains Cheaper Over Time?

Reusable cubicle curtains can offer a lower long-term cost than repeatedly replacing disposable curtains, but the correct comparison is total cost of ownership, not simply the initial purchase price.

A reusable curtain will usually cost more upfront, but it is designed to remain in service for a much longer period.

What Costs Should Be Compared?

A proper cost comparison should include:

• Initial curtain purchase
• Cleaning
• Staff time
• Curtain removal and refitting
• Laundry costs
• Replacement frequency
• Waste disposal
• Storage of replacement stock
• Expected service life

Looking only at the purchase price can give a misleading picture.

How Reusable Curtains Can Reduce Ongoing Costs

A wipe-clean reusable curtain can reduce several recurring costs because it is designed to stay in place and be cleaned in situ.

This can help reduce:

• Repeated curtain purchases
• Laundry charges
• Curtain removal and rehanging
• Transport to and from laundry facilities
• Disposal of single-use curtains
• The need to hold large quantities of replacement stock

The Importance of Service Life

The longer a reusable curtain remains serviceable, the more its initial cost can be spread across its working life.

That is why durability, cleaning resistance and warranty should all be considered as part of the financial assessment.

The Stericurtain range is designed as a long-term reusable product and is supplied with a lifetime warranty.

Potential Savings

The Stericurtain specification states potential savings of up to 76% compared with the recurring costs associated with disposable curtains and laundry services.

Actual savings will depend on factors such as:

• How frequently curtains are currently replaced
• Local laundry costs
• Staff labour
• Waste disposal charges
• Number of beds or treatment bays
• How long the reusable curtain remains in service

Practical Takeaway

Reusable cubicle curtains can be more cost-effective where:

replacement frequency is high + laundry costs are significant + curtains remain in service for a long period

For procurement teams, the most useful comparison is not:

“Which curtain costs less to buy?”

but:

“Which curtain costs less to operate over its full service life?”

How to Calculate the Cost of a Reusable Cubicle Curtain

The best way to compare reusable and disposable cubicle curtains is to calculate the annual or multi-year cost per bed space, bay or treatment area.

This gives a more useful result than comparing the purchase price of one curtain.

Reusable Curtain Cost

For a reusable curtain, include:

• Initial purchase cost
• Cleaning labour
• Cleaning products
• Maintenance
• Replacement if damaged
• Any track or fitting costs
• Expected service life

A simple calculation is:

Annual reusable curtain cost = purchase cost ÷ expected service life + annual cleaning and maintenance costs

If the curtain remains in service for several years, the initial purchase cost is spread across that period.

Disposable Curtain Cost

For disposable curtains, include:

• Cost per curtain
• Number of replacements each year
• Staff time to remove and fit replacements
• Waste disposal costs
• Storage of replacement stock

A simple calculation is:

Annual disposable curtain cost = curtain cost × annual replacement frequency + fitting labour + disposal

If You Currently Use Washable Curtains

For washable curtains, include:

• Initial curtain cost
• Removal labour
• Laundry charges
• Transport
• Rehanging labour
• Temporary replacement stock
• Replacement due to wear or staining

These costs can add up even where the curtain itself is reused many times.

Example of the Comparison

A procurement team could compare the options over three or five years:

Cost Area	Reusable Wipe-Clean	Disposable	Washable
Initial Cost	Higher	Lower per curtain	Higher than disposable
Replacement Frequency	Low	Regular	Lower, subject to wear
Laundry	Not routinely required	Not required	Required
Cleaning	In situ	Replacement rather than cleaning	Laundry process
Waste Disposal	Low replacement volume	Recurring	Occasional

Calculate Cost Per Year, Not Cost Per Curtain

The most useful procurement figure is usually:

total cost over the chosen period ÷ number of years ÷ number of bed spaces or bays

This makes it easier to compare products with very different purchase prices and replacement cycles.

Practical Takeaway

When assessing reusable cubicle curtains, calculate:

purchase + cleaning + labour + maintenance + replacement + disposal

over the expected service life.

That provides a much clearer picture of long-term value than comparing unit prices alone.

Reusable vs Disposable Curtains: What About Waste?

Waste is one of the clearest operational differences between reusable and disposable cubicle curtains.

A reusable curtain is designed to remain in service for a much longer period, while a disposable curtain is removed and replaced when it reaches the end of its use cycle.

Reusable Curtains Reduce Replacement Volume

Because reusable curtains are cleaned in situ and used repeatedly, fewer curtains need to be purchased and discarded over time.

This can reduce:

• The volume of single-use curtain waste
• Storage requirements for replacement stock
• Packaging associated with repeated replacements
• Disposal activity linked to frequent curtain changes

Disposable Curtains Still Have a Role

Disposable curtains can be useful where rapid replacement is operationally important or where a facility prefers a single-use model.

However, this creates a recurring waste stream that must be managed.

Cleaning Also Has an Environmental Cost

Reusable curtains are not impact-free.

Their lifecycle still involves:

• Cleaning products
• Staff time
• Water used during cleaning
• Manufacturing impact
• Eventual replacement

A realistic sustainability assessment should therefore consider the whole service life rather than simply whether a curtain is reusable or disposable.

Longer Service Life Can Improve Resource Efficiency

The main environmental advantage of a durable reusable curtain is that the same product remains in use for longer.

If it withstands repeated cleaning and normal day-to-day use, fewer replacement products are required over the same period.

Practical Takeaway

From a waste perspective, reusable wipe-clean cubicle curtains can help reduce the volume of single-use curtain material entering the waste stream.

The most useful comparison is:

replacement frequency + product lifespan + cleaning requirements + disposal volume

rather than simply assuming that one curtain type is automatically the more sustainable option.

Can Reusable Cubicle Curtains Help With Healthcare Sustainability Targets?

Reusable cubicle curtains can support healthcare sustainability goals by reducing the number of curtains that need to be replaced and disposed of over time.

The main sustainability benefit comes from extending product life and reducing recurring single-use waste.

Fewer Curtain Replacements

A reusable curtain is designed to remain in service and be cleaned repeatedly.

Compared with a disposable model, this can reduce:

• The number of replacement curtains purchased
• Packaging associated with replacement stock
• Storage requirements
• Waste generated from routine curtain changes

Reduced Dependence on Laundry

Wipe-clean reusable curtains are also designed to avoid the routine laundry cycle associated with traditional washable textile curtains.

This can reduce the need for:

• Collection
• Transport
• Laundering
• Drying
• Return logistics
• Rehanging

For healthcare facilities looking at resource use across their estates, this can be relevant alongside waste reduction.

Longer Product Life Matters

The sustainability value of a reusable curtain depends heavily on how long it remains in service.

A durable curtain that withstands repeated cleaning can spread the environmental impact of manufacture across a longer working life.

That makes:

• Material durability
• Cleaning resistance
• Surface performance
• Warranty
• Replacement frequency

important parts of the sustainability assessment.

Sustainability Should Be Measured Across the Full Lifecycle

A useful procurement assessment should consider:

• Initial manufacture
• Transport
• Cleaning requirements
• Expected service life
• Replacement frequency
• Waste disposal
• Whether any parts need separate processing at end of life

This provides a more realistic picture than looking at one factor in isolation.

Practical Takeaway

Reusable wipe-clean cubicle curtains can support healthcare sustainability objectives where they help reduce:

single-use waste + replacement frequency + laundry requirements + associated handling

Their real value comes from staying in service longer and reducing the number of curtain changes required over time.

What Sizes Are Reusable Cubicle Curtains Available In?

Reusable cubicle curtains need to suit the length and layout of the existing track, so size is an important part of the specification.

The Stericurtain reusable range is available in three listed sizes:

• 3000 x 2000
• 5000 x 2000
• 7000 x 2000

The different widths allow the curtain to be matched more closely to the size of the cubicle, treatment bay or privacy area.

Why Width Matters

The curtain needs enough width to provide suitable coverage along the track while still allowing it to draw smoothly.

When choosing a size, consider:

• Total track length
• Number of bends or corners
• Required overlap
• Whether one or more curtains will be used
• How much gathering is needed

Check the Drop

The 2000 dimension represents the curtain drop in the available size options.

Before ordering, confirm that the drop suits:

• Track height
• Required privacy coverage
• Floor clearance
• Existing cubicle layout

Larger Bays May Need More Than One Curtain

For longer track systems, it may be more practical to use multiple curtains rather than one very large panel.

This can make the system easier to operate and may improve access to different sections of the cubicle.

Practical Takeaway

Choose the curtain size based on the actual track layout and required coverage, rather than the bed or treatment bay dimensions alone.

Before ordering, confirm the final product dimensions and units against the current product specification.

Will Reusable Curtains Fit Existing Cubicle Tracks?

Reusable cubicle curtains can often be fitted to existing healthcare cubicle track systems, but compatibility should be checked before ordering.

The Stericurtain reusable curtain is designed to work with the DotcomBlinds cubicle track range.

What Should You Check?

Before ordering, confirm:

• Track type
• Glider or carrier design
• Hook or attachment method
• Track condition
• Curtain width
• Number of attachment points
• Whether the existing layout uses one or multiple curtain sections

Why Compatibility Matters

A reusable curtain may be suitable in terms of material, hygiene and fire performance, but it still needs to operate correctly on the installed track.

Poor compatibility can lead to:

• Difficult movement
• Incorrect hanging
• Excessive strain on attachment points
• Uneven curtain spacing
• Reduced ease of use

Check the Track Condition

It is also worth inspecting the existing track itself.

Look for:

• Damaged gliders
• Missing carriers
• Stiff movement
• Bent sections
• Worn attachment points

A reusable curtain is intended for longer-term service, so the track should be in good enough condition to support regular use.

Existing Track vs New Track

If the current track is compatible and in good condition, the reusable curtain may be fitted without replacing the whole system.

If compatibility is uncertain, it may be better to match the curtain with a track system designed for it.

Practical Takeaway

Do not assume that every reusable cubicle curtain will fit every healthcare track.

Before purchase, confirm the track type, attachment system and curtain dimensions so the curtain can move smoothly and remain secure in daily use.

Reusable vs Disposable Cubicle Curtains: Which Operating Model Suits Your Facility?

Reusable and disposable cubicle curtains can both work well in healthcare environments, but they suit different operational priorities.

The best choice depends on how the facility manages cleaning, replacement, waste, labour and long-term cost.

Reusable Wipe-Clean Curtains

Reusable curtains are designed to remain installed and be cleaned in situ.

They can be particularly suitable where the priority is:

• Reducing single-use waste
• Avoiding routine laundry
• Lowering replacement frequency
• Keeping curtains in service for longer
• Cleaning high-touch surfaces in place
• Managing long-term operating costs

Disposable Curtains

Disposable curtains are designed to be removed and replaced when required.

They can be particularly suitable where the priority is:

• Fast complete replacement
• Simple stock-based curtain changes
• No in-situ cleaning requirement
• No laundering
• Straightforward scheduled replacement programmes

Quick Comparison

Requirement	Reusable Wipe-Clean	Disposable
In-situ cleaning	Yes	No
Routine laundry	Not routinely required	Not required
Replacement frequency	Lower	Regular
Single-use waste	Lower	Higher
Rapid full curtain replacement	Less central to the operating model	A key advantage
Long service life	Yes	No
Initial purchase cost	Typically higher	Typically lower per curtain

Which Model Is Better?

There is no single answer for every healthcare facility.

Reusable curtains may make more sense where:

• Curtains are changed frequently
• Waste reduction is important
• In-situ cleaning fits existing procedures
• Long-term cost matters
• Laundry is undesirable

Disposable curtains may make more sense where:

• Fast replacement is preferred
• Cleaning in place is not practical
• The facility already uses a stock-based replacement programme
• Short-term flexibility is more important than long service life

Practical Takeaway

The decision is less about which curtain type is universally better and more about which operating model suits the facility.

A useful way to think about it is:

Reusable = clean and retain

Disposable = remove and replace

The right choice depends on which process works best for the healthcare environment.

Reusable Cubicle Curtain Procurement Checklist

When specifying reusable cubicle curtains for a hospital, clinic, GP surgery or other healthcare environment, it is useful to compare products against a consistent technical checklist.

Fire Performance

Check that the curtain clearly states the required fire-retardant standard.

For healthcare applications, look for a defined specification such as:

BS 5867 Part 2 Type C

This gives procurement teams a recognised benchmark rather than relying on a general “flame retardant” description.

Material Construction

Confirm the curtain material and surface construction.

For a wipe-clean reusable curtain, useful features include:

• Durable polyester base
• PVC-laminated surface
• Waterproof construction
• Suitability for repeated cleaning
• Resistance to regular handling

Wipe-Clean Capability

Check that the curtain is specifically designed for in-situ cleaning.

Confirm:

• Whether it can remain installed during cleaning
• Which cleaning products are suitable
• Whether the surface is waterproof
• Whether repeated wiping is supported by the material specification

Antimicrobial Treatment

If antimicrobial performance is required, confirm:

• Whether an antimicrobial agent is incorporated into the material
• The treatment used
• Whether the antimicrobial property forms part of the stated product specification

Antimicrobial treatment should support, not replace, routine cleaning.

High-Touch Areas

Where available, designated Touch Point areas can help provide:

• A clear place to open and close the curtain
• Easier identification of high-contact surfaces
• More consistent cleaning of frequently handled areas

Curtain Dimensions

Confirm:

• Width
• Drop
• Required coverage
• Track length
• Number of curtains needed

The chosen size should suit the actual cubicle layout rather than being selected from the bed-space dimensions alone.

Track Compatibility

Check:

• Track manufacturer or type
• Glider or carrier system
• Attachment method
• Number of fixing points
• Whether the existing track is suitable for the curtain

Do not assume universal compatibility.

Durability

For a reusable product, consider:

• Tear resistance
• Surface wear
• Repeated cleaning
• Attachment-point strength
• Expected service life
• Appearance over time

A reusable curtain only delivers long-term value if it remains serviceable.

Warranty

Check the warranty and what it covers.

A strong warranty can be particularly useful when evaluating a curtain intended for long-term use.

The Stericurtain reusable curtain is supplied with a lifetime warranty.

Cleaning Requirements

Confirm the practical cleaning process before purchase.

That should include:

• Approved cleaning products
• In-situ cleaning method
• Frequency of routine cleaning
• Management of visible contamination
• Inspection for damage

Lifecycle Cost

Compare more than the initial purchase price.

Include:

• Purchase cost
• Cleaning labour
• Cleaning products
• Maintenance
• Replacement
• Disposal
• Expected service life

For reusable products, cost per year of service is usually more meaningful than unit cost.

Sustainability and Waste

Consider:

• Expected curtain lifespan
• Replacement frequency
• Reduction in single-use curtain waste
• Laundry avoidance
• End-of-life disposal requirements

Practical Takeaway

A strong reusable cubicle curtain specification should cover:

fire performance + material + waterproofing + wipe-clean capability + antimicrobial treatment + dimensions + track compatibility + durability + warranty + cleaning + lifecycle cost

That gives healthcare procurement teams a much clearer basis for comparing reusable curtain systems.

Stericurtain Reusable Curtain Specification

The Stericurtain reusable curtain range is designed for healthcare environments that need a durable, wipe-clean privacy curtain that can remain in service for repeated use.

The main specification is:

Specification	Stericurtain Reusable Curtain
Material	100% polyester PVC-laminated fabric
Surface	Waterproof and wipe-clean
Antimicrobial Treatment	Biosafe® antimicrobial agent
Fire Performance	BS 5867 Part 2 Type C
Cleaning Method	Designed for in-situ cleaning using standard hospital detergents
Touch Points	Toscana Navy designated handling areas
Main Curtain Colour	Sky Blue
Warranty	Lifetime warranty
Track Compatibility	Designed to fit the DotcomBlinds Cubicle Track range
Available Sizes	3000 x 2000, 5000 x 2000 and 7000 x 2000

Main Operational Benefits

The specification is designed around four main healthcare requirements:

• Cleanability: waterproof surface for in-situ wiping
• Hygiene support: Biosafe® antimicrobial treatment and designated Touch Points
• Durability: reusable PVC-laminated polyester construction
• Fire performance: BS 5867 Part 2 Type C

Where It Can Be Used

The range is suitable for healthcare settings such as:

• Hospital wards
• Treatment bays
• GP surgeries
• Clinics
• Examination areas
• Other facilities using cubicle-track privacy curtains

Practical Takeaway

The Stericurtain specification can be summarised as:

reusable + waterproof + wipe-clean + antimicrobial + BS 5867 Part 2 Type C + lifetime warranty

For healthcare buyers, this makes it a distinctly different operating model from both disposable curtains and conventional laundered textile curtains.

Final Buying Checklist for Reusable Cubicle Curtains

Before ordering reusable cubicle curtains for a hospital, clinic, GP surgery or other healthcare setting, work through the following checklist.

1. Confirm the Cleaning Method

Check that the curtain is designed for the cleaning process used by your facility.

For a wipe-clean system, confirm:

• Whether it can remain installed during cleaning
• Which detergents are suitable
• Whether the surface is waterproof
• How visible contamination should be handled

2. Check the Material

Confirm the curtain construction.

For a reusable wipe-clean curtain, useful features include:

• Durable polyester base
• PVC-laminated surface
• Waterproof construction
• Suitability for repeated wiping

3. Confirm Antimicrobial Treatment

If antimicrobial performance is required, check:

• Which treatment is used
• Whether it is incorporated into the curtain material
• Whether it forms part of the product specification

4. Check Fire Performance

Confirm that the curtain states the required fire-retardant standard.

For healthcare applications, a specification such as:

BS 5867 Part 2 Type C

provides a clear technical benchmark.

5. Check High-Touch Areas

If the curtain includes designated Touch Points, consider how these will fit into the facility’s cleaning procedures.

Clearly defined handling areas can make frequently touched sections easier to identify and clean.

6. Confirm the Curtain Size

Check:

• Width
• Drop
• Track length
• Required coverage
• Number of curtains needed

The curtain should suit the actual cubicle layout.

7. Confirm Track Compatibility

Before ordering, check:

• Track type
• Glider or carrier design
• Attachment method
• Number of fixing points
• Existing track condition

Do not assume that every reusable curtain will fit every cubicle track.

8. Consider Durability

Because the curtain is intended for repeated use, assess:

• Resistance to tearing
• Surface durability
• Repeated cleaning performance
• Attachment-point strength
• Expected service life

9. Check the Warranty

Review the warranty and what it covers.

For a long-term reusable product, warranty protection can be an important part of the procurement decision.

10. Calculate Lifecycle Cost

Do not compare reusable curtains with disposable alternatives on purchase price alone.

Consider:

• Initial purchase
• Cleaning
• Labour
• Maintenance
• Replacement
• Disposal
• Expected service life

Cost per year of use is usually more meaningful than unit price.

11. Review Sustainability

Consider:

• Replacement frequency
• Single-use waste reduction
• Laundry avoidance
• Product lifespan
• End-of-life disposal

12. Confirm Availability and Supply

For larger healthcare sites, also check:

• Stock availability
• Lead times
• Replacement availability
• Multiple size options
• Supplier support

Final Check

Before placing an order, make sure you are satisfied with:

cleaning method + material + waterproof construction + antimicrobial treatment + fire performance + size + track compatibility + durability + warranty + lifecycle cost

For reusable healthcare cubicle curtains, the strongest specification is one that works not only at installation, but throughout the product’s full service life.