How often are train blankets washed? Railways Minister answers

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the Lok Sabha on the hygiene standards of train blankets. In a written response, the Minister assured that Indian Railways’ woollen blankets are washed at least once a month.

In a written reply, the minister said, "The Indian Railways blankets are lighter, easy to wash, and provide good insulation for a comfortable journey." His response came in reply to a question from Congress MP Kuldeep Indora, who sought clarity on the frequency of blanket washing.

To enhance passenger comfort, the Minister noted that an additional bedsheet is provided in the bedroll kits to be used as a quilt cover. He outlined measures implemented by the Railways to improve linen quality and the overall passenger experience.

Upgraded BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) linen specifications, automated laundry systems, and standardized equipment and cleaning agents have improved hygiene standards. He mentioned measures for passenger comfort and safety, including new linen sets with improved BIS specifications, mechanised laundries for hygienic supply, standard machines and specified chemicals for washing, and monitoring activities.

The Minister informed the House about the establishment of “war rooms” at zonal and divisional headquarters to monitor and address bedroll quality complaints filed through the RailMadad portal.

"War rooms have been set up at zonal and divisional levels to monitor/action complaints on the RailMadad portal, including linen/bedroll complaints," he said.

Public health expert Dr. Jagadish Hiremath commented on Indian Railways’ hygiene practices. He noted that public transport systems worldwide, like airlines and long-distance trains in Europe and the US, launder blankets and linens after every use or provide single-use items to maintain hygiene standards.

Dr. Hiremath says “Indian Railways has improved linen hygiene practices, but washing blankets only once a month remains insufficient in a high-traffic environment”.

Citing Environmental Health research, Dr. Hiremath noted that infrequently washed items like blankets can harbour bacteria, fungi, and allergens. He suggested that “Indian Railways align its hygiene practices with global standards, given India’s climate and dense passenger turnover. Increasing blanket washing frequency would better safeguard passenger health and meet their expectations for cleaner, safer travel”.

The Minister’s response underscores Indian Railways’ efforts to modernize and improve hygiene, but experts believe more frequent laundering of blankets could enhance passenger confidence. Aligning with international standards could help Indian Railways ensure health and safety while offering an improved travel experience.

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