Sponges & Pads

Sponges & Pads
  • Dynarex Nonwoven Sponge Dynarex

    Dynarex

    Dynarex Non-Woven Sponges, 4-Ply - Non-Sterile

    Nonwoven sponges, an alternative to all-cotton sponges, can be used for general purpose cleaning and dressing of wounds.Ideal for wound dressing, prepping and scrubbing, general purpose cleansing Highly absorbent Less linting than standard gauze

    As low as $9.63
  • Dynarex Gauze Sponge Dynarex

    Dynarex

    Dynarex Gauze Sponges, 12-Ply, Sterile - Non-Woven

    Gauze sponges are used to absorb blood and other fluids as well as clean wounds.Highly absorbent, 100% cotton gauze Folded edges minimize loose threads and lint Packaged in peel-down pouches for aseptic handling Packed in open dispenser boxes for...

    As low as $10.45
  • Dynarex Gauze Sponge Dynarex

    Dynarex

    Dynarex Surgical Gauze Sponges, 8-Ply - Non-Sterile, Non-Woven

    Nonsterile gauze sponges for a wide range of dressing, cleaning and prepping procedures. Cut edges folded in so there are no exposed raw edges.100% cotton gauze Superior quality with assured economy For a wide range of dressing, cleaning and prepping...

    As low as $9.84
  • McKesson Gauze Sponge McKesson Brand

    McKesson

    McKesson Gauze Sponges - 12-Ply, Sterile, Woven, Square, 2 in x 2 in

    Providing reduced linting activity, this McKesson Square Sterile 12-Ply Cotton Gauze Sponge is made from 100% cotton. The cotton construction allows the gauze sponge to be used in wound dressing, cleaning, prepping and packing applications.100% cotton is...

    As low as $12.80
Sponges and Pads

Sponges and pads are an integral part of wound care, and those caring for a wound either for themselves or others will often find themselves needing to restock. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, here’s what your need to know about sponges and pads.

Sponges and Their Use

Sponges tend to absorb more than pads and are used in various wound care settings, including cleaning, debriding, and packing a wound. Sponges are useful for highly exudative (wet) wounds and can also apply ointment or medication when combined with other dressings.

Gauze sponges come in various sizes ranging from 2x2 inches for smaller-sized wounds such as minor burns or ulcers to 4x8 inches for more extensive wounds like surgical incisions. For good wound care, the size of the sponge needs to be larger than the size of the wound to provide coverage and protection.

There is usually more than one sponge in a pack because they need frequent changes. A healthcare provider will likely advise you about how often to change the sponge. When in doubt, redress the wound with a new sterile sponge if you see exudate seeping through the sponge or around the wound.

Drain Sponge: A drain sponge, also known as a split sponge, has a pre-cut slit that fits around drains, catheters, chest tubes, IVs, and more. Your healthcare provider may recommend a combination of sponge and drain gauze.

Sponge Materials

The main types of sponges are:

  • Gauze: Gauze sponges are made from several layers of woven material, usually cotton, to help increase absorbency. Gauze sponges can be woven or gauze.
  • Woven: Manufacturers weave the gauze to help promote the movement of fluid away from the wound and deeper into the dressing.
  • Non-Woven: To allow for more absorbency
  • Polyester/Rayon Blend: Polyester/rayon blend sponges are very absorbent and are a great alternative to gauze. If you are looking for a drain sponge specifically, consider a polyester/rayon blend drain sponge for better absorbency.


  • Pads and Their Use

    Pads tend to be thinner than sponges and, therefore, less absorbent. Pads are ideal for dressing wounds with no or minimal fluid. Your healthcare provider may recommend pads vs. sponges, depending on the wound type and your health history.

    Gauze pads come in various sizes ranging from 2x2 inches for minor wounds to 6x8 inches for more extensive wounds. As with sponges, the size of the pad should be larger than the size of the wound to provide protection.

    Pads are often packaged individually and may be labeled as ‘sterile’ or ‘non-sterile. If you are unsure which is the best option, choose a sterile gauze pad to protect your wound from bacteria.

    Pad Materials

    Most wound care pads are made from gauze because it is both absorbent and comfortable. In some cases, the pad may be impregnated with medication or moistened with saline. For instance, if you are dealing with a completely dry wound, a few drops of saline on the pad can help provide a moist environment, ideal for wound healing.


    Ply Options

    Both sponges and gauze pads are available in different ply, which refers to the number of layers within the gauze pad with higher ply numbers indicating increased thickness. Standard ply sizes range from 4 plies to 12 plies; 4 ply is good for mild or moderately exudative wounds, while 12 plies are ideal for highly exudative wounds.

    Your healthcare provider will typically advise about the specific wound care procedures and materials; with wound care and other medical care, it is always recommended that you follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider.