For cleaning and disinfection of laboratory instruments various methods are applicable. Glass and plastic labware can be cleaned manually, in an immersion bath, or in a laboratory washing machine. To prevent baking-on the substance and damage to the labware by adhering chemical residues it is important to clean labware immediately after use at low temperatures, with brief soaking times, and at low alkalinity. Labware which has come into contact with infectious substances should be disinfected before cleaning and, if necessary, autoclaved. At Analytics-Shop you find a wide range of cleaners and disinfectants by numerous manufactures such as Bode, Bandelin and Kimberly-Clark.
Further information about cleaning methods can be found here.
Applichem's ExitusPlus™ products are specifically designed to meet the needs of genomics and molecular biology: The patented solution can be used to remove non-enzymatic nucleic acids such as DNA, RNA and RNAse from many different surfaces. ExitusPlus™ is not only fast and easy to use, it is also ready to use. As the ExitusPlus™ range is non-toxic to humans and all ingredients are non-corrosive and biodegradable, Applichem's decontamination solutions also meet the highest standards for environmental friendliness and sustainability in the laboratory. All ExitusPlus™ products for the removal of DNA, RNA and RNAse molecules are available in the Analytics Shop.
The wiping and scrubbing method is generally accepted and a popular cleaning method. However, when using cloths or sponges soaked in cleaning solutions, one can easily damage the surface of laboratory instruments. Ultrasonic baths are recommended for both glass and plastic labware, direct contact with the sonic membranes must be avoided though. For the immersion bath method, the instruments are soaked in cleaning solutions for 20-30 minutes. Then the labware is rinsed with tap water and distilled water. A more gentle method is machine cleaning with laboratory washing machines. The instruments are only exposed to the cleaner for short flushing periods. Further washing nets and wire baskets coated with plastic protect the labware against scratching and damage.
In the field of cleaning and disinfection a wide variety of superior cleaning solutions is available. WYPALL cloths and wipers combine versatile performance and economy for light-duty tasks. The wipers are lightweight, yet strong and reinforced for extra strength. They hold together and do not leave residues behind. KLEENEX towels are extra absorbent, tear-resistant and very soft and convenient in use.