What should be done with highly contaminated clothing that cannot be thoroughly cleaned?

When dealing with highly contaminated clothing that cannot be thoroughly cleaned, the most appropriate action is to discard it immediately. This is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, contaminated clothing can pose a health risk, as it may carry harmful pathogens, toxins, or chemical residues that could lead to illness or exacerbate existing health issues. By discarding the clothing, you are preventing further exposure to these contaminants.

Additionally, retaining contaminated clothing for future use increases the chances of cross-contaminating other clean items, which can create broader safety concerns. Washing highly contaminated clothing with other clothes is also inadvisable, as this could lead to the spread of contaminants during the wash cycle. Wearing the clothing until it becomes more comfortable is not safe, as it can prolong exposure to any harmful substances present.

Overall, immediate disposal is the best practice to ensure safety and mitigate potential risks associated with contaminated clothing.