Publications by authors named "Ronald Beaschler"
Context: The best practice for cleaning wrestling mats is using a residual disinfectant with continued antibacterial action. Recently available wash-in silver additives claim to confer a residual effect to fabric.
Objective: To test the efficacy of laundering with a wash-in silver additive in reducing athletes' exposure to potentially infectious microbes on apparel.
Article Synopsis
- A study commissioned by the National Wrestling Coaches Association analyzed infection transmission among collegiate wrestlers, focusing on the effectiveness of various disinfectants for wrestling mats.
- The research involved both a laboratory setting, testing disinfectants like bleach and OxiTitan against bacterial loads, and empirical testing during two wrestling meets where mat and wrestler bacteria were monitored.
- Results indicated that disinfectants with claimed residual activity significantly reduced bacterial load, and only a small number of wrestlers tested positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, while skin and respiratory bacteria were predominantly found on the mats.