Personal care is part of every resident's day, and the supplies behind it affect comfort, dignity and skin health. This guide covers the personal care and hygiene items aged care facilities commonly stock, what to look for in each, and how to order without constant top-ups. It is general information: follow your facility's care plans and infection prevention policy.

Daily personal care essentials

Item	Used for	Things to check
No-rinse body wash and bathing wipes	Bed baths and bathing residents who cannot shower	Gentle, pH-balanced, suitable for daily use; wipes that are soft and thick
Disposable washcloths	Cleansing, perineal care	Softness, size, dispenser or pack format
Shampoo caps and no-rinse shampoo	Hair washing in bed or chair	Ease of use and warming options
Oral care swabs and toothbrushes	Mouth care, including for residents who cannot brush	Swab type, sensitivity and denture care products
Skin moisturisers and barrier products	Dry and fragile skin	Unfragranced options, pump packs for easy dosing
Disposable gloves	Personal care tasks and hygiene	Material, size range, powder-free
Disposable bibs, aprons and bed protectors	Meals, personal care and bedding protection	Absorbency, size, comfort

Why no-rinse products are popular

• They reduce the need to move residents to a shower or bath.
• They can save time and water, and keep residents warm during bathing.
• Many are designed to be gentle on skin and to help reduce the drying effect of soap.

Whatever you choose, trial a small quantity first and ask staff and residents how it works in practice.

Dignity and preference

Where possible, involve residents in choices about the products used on their bodies, such as fragrance, texture and temperature. Residents who feel comfortable are more likely to accept care.

Buying personal care supplies in bulk

• Compare cost per use. A larger pack of wipes can be cheaper per wipe, but check that the quality stands up to daily use.
• Standardise a small range. Fewer products means simpler training and ordering.
• Store sensibly. Keep stock in cool, dry storage and rotate by expiry date.
• Set reorder points. Reorder before a product runs out so you never have to switch at short notice.

Ordering personal care supplies from BIOFAST

BIOFAST is a Melbourne-based Australian supplier of personal care, continence, wound care and PPE products for aged care. Facilities can apply for a 30-day trade account (a completed credit application is required). Orders placed before 2pm normally ship the same day, and delivery is free over $199 in metro areas. Browse aged care supplies, or contact the sales team at sales@biofast.com.au or on 03 8905 4449.

Frequently asked questions

What personal care supplies do aged care facilities need?

Commonly no-rinse body wash and wipes, disposable washcloths, oral care items, moisturisers and barrier products, gloves, bibs and bed protectors.

What are no-rinse bathing products?

Cleansers or pre-moistened wipes that clean the skin without needing to be rinsed off with water, which makes them useful for bed baths.

Can aged care facilities buy personal care supplies on account?

Yes. BIOFAST offers 30-day trade accounts to aged care facilities, subject to a completed credit application. Email sales@biofast.com.au to start.