The efficiency and safe operation of an autoclave, an essential tool for sterilizing medical instruments, laboratory equipment, and other critical items, depend directly on consistently following proper cleaning and maintenance practices.
The buildup of residues can not only reduce the equipment’s performance but also compromise operator safety and the effectiveness of the sterilization process.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to cleaning and maintaining autoclaves, offering both general considerations and specific recommendations to ensure their durability, reliability, and optimal performance.
Always consult the manufacturer’s manual
Start by reviewing the user and maintenance manuals for your specific autoclave. They contain essential information on routine upkeep, approved consumables, and technical installation requirements to.
Following these guidelines also helps preserve the equipment’s warranty and ensures that all the maintenance and operation procedures comply with industry standards and regulations.
Which products should you use to clean an autoclave?
To maintain the equipment’s performance and prevent damage, it’s important to use cleaning products that actively protect autoclaves’ internal components. Avoid any materials or substances that are abrasive or corrosive.
Recommended products for cleaning an autoclave:
- Soft cloths or cotton towels
- Distilled water, which helps prevent mineral deposits that could block the drainage valve
- A neutral detergent or a non-abrasive cleaning product recommended by the manufacturer
What does autoclave cleaning involve?
Routine cleaning involves a series of simple manual steps that must be carried out carefully to prevent damage to the equipment. It’s important to observe general precautions such as:
- Avoid using direct water jets, whether high-pressure or spray
- Prevent the buildup of limescale or other residues in the sterilization chamber, lid, and gasket
Recommended cleaning procedures:
Step 1: cleaning the gasket, lid interior, and external surface
To remove limescale buildup from the gasket and the inside of the lid, wipe with a clean cotton cloth dampened with water. For external surfaces, use a soft cloth moistened with water, adding a small amount of neutral detergent if necessary.
In both cases, make sure to dry all surfaces thoroughly and remove any residue before operating the autoclave. Occasionally, the exterior can also be disinfected with denatured alcohol.
Step 2: cleaning the sterilization chamber and accessories
To clean the sterilization chamber, heating element cover, baskets, and internal surfaces, use a clean cotton cloth dampened with water, adding a small amount of neutral detergent if necessary. After cleaning, rinse all surfaces thoroughly with distilled water to remove any remaining residue.
Avoid using sharp or pointed tools to scrape off limescale. If you notice significant buildup, check the quality of the water used in the autoclave.
Step 3: cleaning the water reservoirs
For autoclaves equipped with clean and wastewater tanks, it’s important to empty and clean them regularly. Never attempt to empty the tanks while the equipment is under pressure, as escaping steam or hot water can cause burns.
Step 4: cleaning the drainage filter
With regular use, residues can build up in the drainage filter, potentially causing blockages. If this occurs, remove the filter following the manufacturer’s instructions and clean it carefully under running water.
For stubborn deposits or larger debris, a pointed tool may be needed. If the filter is clogged with agar, hot water can help loosen it. Should the filter remain obstructed or show no improvement after cleaning, it must be replaced with an original spare part.
How often should an autoclave be cleaned?
The cleaning and maintenance schedule for an autoclave should be tailored to its workload and the types of sterilization cycles performed.
As a general guideline, we recommend the following routine maintenance schedule:
- Daily: clean the gasket, interior of the lid, and external surfaces
- Weekly: clean the sterilization chamber and accessories, and replace the water in the tanks if required
- Monthly: clean the drainage filter
Maintenance tips after cleaning an autoclave
Regular inspections are important to detect and address any signs of wear, residue buildup, or potential malfunctions before they become serious issues.
Implementing systematic cleaning routines, promptly replacing worn components, and accurately calibrating the equipment’s controls and sensors are all essential elements of an effective and efficient maintenance program.
Consistently performing these maintenance tasks with proper frequency and care helps extend the autoclave’s lifespan, improves its performance, and ensures safe, effective sterilization that meets the highest quality and safety standards.