Introduction to Cotton Swabs

Also known as cotton-tipped applicators or swabs, these are Class I medical devices made by wrapping sterilized cotton around a small wooden or plastic stick. Classified as wound dressing and care materials, they are primarily used in medical settings for applying medicinal solutions and absorbing pus or blood. They are categorized by application into medical-grade and industrial-grade types; medical-grade swabs include standard medical swabs and pre-saturated swabs for immediate use, while industrial-grade swabs include cleanroom wiping sticks and swabs suitable for Class 10 cleanrooms. Consumer applications have also emerged, such as perfume applicators. Medical-grade swabs require ethylene oxide sterilization and sealed packaging, with a shelf life of 2–3 years; once opened, sterility must be maintained for 24 hours. Industrial cleanroom wiping sticks undergo Class 100 purification processing, resulting in low residue and high conductivity. In 2022, regulatory authorities in various regions penalized medical aesthetic clinics for using expired medical swabs, resulting in the confiscation of the devices and the imposition of fines. Nucleic acid testing utilizes flocked swabs made of polyester or nylon fibers rather than traditional cotton swabs; these offer 20%–60% higher absorption efficiency and a pathogen release rate of up to 95%.