Disclosed is a production method for medical devices with a hydrophilic coating, which ensures adequate adhesion to the substrate, as well as good water retention and low friction properties. Specifically, the method comprises providing a coating solution comprising a hydrophilic polymer to a surface of a substrate to form a non-cross-linked hydrophilic coating and irradiating the coated substrate, thereby cross-linking the hydrophilic coating and simultaneously sterilizing the medical device. Hereby, a non-cross linked hydrophilic coating is first obtained which is not fit for use as a catheter coating. However, after the step of irradiating the coated substrate, the hydrophilic coating becomes cross-linked, and fit for use e.g. on a urinary catheter. Further, since one and the same irradiation step is used to effect both cross-linking and sterilization, the production can be made more efficient, using fewer production steps and with a shortened production time.
