What is the method generally used to decontaminate large volumes of contaminated bedding?

• A. Autoclaving
• B. Burial in landfills
• C. Incineration
• D. Disinfection with a bleach solution

Answer: (C)

Handling large amounts of contaminated bedding requires a process that reliably eliminates pathogens and reduces waste volume quickly. Incineration achieves this by applying high temperatures that burn organic material and destroy microbes, resulting in sterile residue and a much smaller, nonhazardous volume for disposal. Autoclaving works well for smaller lots or hard, nonporous items, but it’s impractical for bulk bedding because of the time, energy, and handling needed to process large quantities. Burial in landfills doesn’t decontaminate material and risks environmental spread or regulatory issues. Disinfecting with a bleach solution isn’t effective for bulky, absorbent bedding at scale and may not achieve complete decontamination. For large-volume decontamination, incineration is the preferred method.