The difference between Sterile and Non-Sterile Gauze Pads is that Sterile Pads is used for closed wounds & Non-Sterile Gauze Pads are used for closed wounds. Gauze is one of the oldest medical care supplies, with the oldest recorded use dating back to ancient Egyptian civilization. It is a mesh of fabric (available in both woven and unwoven forms), typically cotton, that has extensive use in the medical field for cleaning and protecting wounds.