Effective cleaning of laboratory glassware will help prevent cross-contamination, which can skew experimental results and lead to inaccurate results. Therefore, regular cleaning of laboratory equipment is a basic maintenance step that all laboratories should follow. Although cleaning glassware may seem like a simple task, it's more complicated than one might think. To learn how to properly sanitize lab equipment, here are some helpful tips for cleaning lab glassware.
clean now
If you leave residue in your glassware for an extended period of time, the infection can fester inside them and potentially cause stains. For this reason, many professionals recommend cleaning glassware immediately after use. Doing so will make the cleaning process as efficient as possible.
Use laboratory cleaners
Standard dish soap won't cut when cleaning lab glassware. In fact, such commercial cleaners can end up damaging your lab equipment. You're better off postponing the cleaning process until you get the proper cleaning supplies. The cleaners you use to clean laboratory glassware should clearly state that they are chemically stained glassware.
Rinse with distilled and deionized water
For best sterilization results, avoid rinsing glassware with tap water. Instead, rinse with distilled water when you're done with the cleaning process. Then, rinse again with deionized water. This way, as the water picks up minerals and contaminants, it will remove any remaining traces of the cleaning solution.
Let the device air dry
Fibers and contaminants can be absorbed by drying the device with paper towels. To avoid introducing impurities into freshly cleaned glassware, simply allow the unit to air dry. If you need to use the glassware immediately after cleaning it, a faster drying method is to rinse it with acetone 2 to 3 times. Acetone will remove any remaining water before quickly evaporating.
