In a major step to strengthen cleanliness standards and reduce infection risks, the Delhi government has implemented a colour-coded bedsheet policy across all government-run hospitals in the capital. The initiative, effective immediately, is being carried out under the Centre’s Kayakalp programme, which focuses on enhancing hygiene and patient safety in public healthcare facilities.
The decision, taken under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, mandates the daily replacement of hospital bedsheets following a predetermined colour schedule. Health officials believe the structured system will help ensure consistency in linen changes while lowering the chances of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
How the Weekly Colour Rotation Works
Each day of the week has been assigned a specific bedsheet colour, which hospitals must follow strictly:
- Monday: White
- Tuesday: Pink
- Wednesday: Green
- Thursday: Purple
- Friday: Blue
- Saturday: Light Grey
- Sunday: Peach
This visual system makes it easy for hospital staff, supervisors and administrators to confirm whether bedsheets have been changed daily, improving accountability and monitoring.
Delhi Health Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh said the policy prioritises patient well-being, particularly for individuals with compromised immunity or prolonged hospital stays. He noted that regular linen replacement plays a crucial role in minimising infection risks within healthcare settings.
All government hospitals have been instructed to strictly adhere to the colour rotation without exception. To ensure uninterrupted implementation, sufficient supplies of all seven bedsheet colours have already been distributed to hospitals.
The new system also improves internal linen management. Different colours help staff easily segregate fresh and used bedsheets, streamlining collection, washing, transport and storage. This reduces the risk of contaminated linen being mixed with clean supplies.
Officials from the health department added that the bedsheets have been selected with attention to durability, comfort and quality, ensuring a better experience for patients during their hospital stay.
Positive Impact on Patient Experience
Beyond infection control, authorities believe the initiative will enhance patient confidence. A visibly clean and organised hospital environment can have a reassuring psychological effect, helping patients feel more secure and supported during treatment.
The move aligns with the Kayakalp handbook, which outlines scientific methods for linen handling, including separate processing of infected fabric and proper washing protocols using hot water and detergent. According to officials, colour-coding makes these guidelines easier to implement at the ground level.
As Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh said, “Seven-colour bedsheet coding is a simple but effective step that will reduce infection rates and improve the working environment for doctors and staff.”
(Photo courtesy: Wikipedia/Vishnoi M)