A multi-panel sterilization assembly that includes a barrier panel formed of permeable material having barrier properties, side tabs that include grip portions for folding or unfolding the barrier panel; and a fold protection panel. The barrier panel has a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a first edge and a third edge, each such edge being generally perpendicular to the first end, and a second edge that is generally opposite the first end. A longitudinal axis extending from at least the first end to the second end of the barrier panel such that it bisects the assembly into a first assembly portion and a substantially equal second assembly portion. The first assembly portion extends from the longitudinal axis to include the first edge of the barrier panel and the side tab and defines a respective center of mass, and the second assembly portion extends from the longitudinal axis to include the third edge of the barrier panel and the side tab and defines a second respective center of mass, whereby the center of mass of the first assembly portion is closer to the first edge than to the longitudinal axis and the center of mass of the second assembly portion is closer to the third edge than to the longitudinal axis.