My patients all agree that there is nothing to compare to crisply starched cloth gowns. I have used disposable paper sheets and gowns in the past, much to my own displeasure. Paper gowns tear too easily and end up in pieces by the end of the exam it seemed, as well they were very expensive and only available by the case lot quantity. I'm environmentally conscious as well as being a traditionalist so I wanted a better solution.
I had a standard issue hospital gown which was 40" long with cloth tie strips that made a perfect pattern. I took it to my local tailor (cute little Korean lady) who modified the pattern into short 24" gowns with 2 ties, and long 48" gowns with 4 ties. I chose an ultra-white high quality Percale which has a 400 per inch thread count so they should last forever, and I had her make 6 of each size. The short gowns reach just to the average patient's waist, while the long gowns reach mid-calf or longer depending on their height. The longer gowns do not require a drape sheet however I always give the patient a drape sheet with a short gown. The long gowns are perfect if the patient must leave the exam room for any reason (to the bathroom for example) however I prefer the short gowns and a sheet since they provide easier exposure to almost any area. I also had her divide and edge finish 6 twin size sheets two ways, lengthwise as a table runner sheet under the patient, and half length into a perfect 48" X 36" patient drape.
They are a lot of work to maintain however, a definite downside. Laundering is not a problem however they are a massive amount of work to iron and press with old-fashioned spray starch, but it produces a super-smooth finish which is crisp and cold to the touch. They are also just thin enough to see the patient's profile through them, and they tend to accentuate erect nipples.
My favorite sight is coming into the exam room with a patient waiting on the table in a crisp white gown (open to the back), draped waist down with a white sheet.
They look like an Angel. 🌹