What should bandages be?

The focus of this question is on the characteristic that bandages should possess. Bandages, while being an important part of wound care, need to be clean to prevent infection and promote healing. Clean bandages ensure that no dirt or harmful bacteria are introduced into a wound, which is crucial for effective treatment.

While sterile bandages are ideal, maintaining cleanliness is a fundamental necessity for all bandages that may come into contact with wounds. In situations where a sterile bandage is not available, using a clean bandage can still provide a protective barrier to the injury. Other characteristics, such as being waterproof, can be beneficial in certain contexts, but cleanliness remains paramount in all scenarios to reduce the risk of complications.