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Care & reprocessing
How to clean, lubricate and sterilise instruments so they last.
Last updated 14 August 2026
Most instruments that fail early are not worn out — they have been reprocessed incorrectly. A correct clean-lubricate-sterilise cycle will outlast any amount of repair later.
Stainless instruments
- After each use
- Rinse off blood and saline immediately — chlorides pit stainless.
- Cleaning
- Ultrasonic or enzymatic clean with a neutral-pH detergent.
- Lubrication
- Lubricate box-joints and hinges before sterilising.
- Never
- Abrasive pads, bleach, or leaving instruments wet in saline.
Sterilisation
- Steam
- Autoclave at 134°C with ratchets open and jointed instruments unlocked.
- Water
- Use distilled or demineralised water to avoid mineral staining.
- Drying
- Dry fully before storage — trapped moisture causes spotting.
- Inspection
- Check edges, tips and joints each cycle; retire worn instruments.
Diagnostics & devices
- Stethoscopes
- Wipe tubing and chest-piece with alcohol; do not immerse.
- Autoclaves
- Clean chamber and gasket weekly; distilled water only; service annually.
- Optics
- Clean lenses with lens tissue only; keep charged handles topped up.
- Never
- Immerse electronics, or autoclave anything not rated for it.