Cleaning of Bottle-Top Dispenser Glassware and Plastic Utensils

1. Glassware
For glassware, the soaking time in alkaline detergents should be avoided when it exceeds 70 degrees. Such operations, especially for volumetric devices, may result in volume changes due to glass erosion and may erode the scale.

2. Plastic appliance
Plastic appliances typically have a smooth, hydrophobic surface that can be easily cleaned using weak base conditions. PS or PC appliances, such as centrifuge tubes, can only be washed manually with a neutral detergent. Even extending the wash time in a weak base detergent can damage their strength. The chemical resistance of these plastics needs to be confirmed in different situations.

3. Cleaning in trace analysis
To minimize the bottle-top dispensers’ metal residue, the laboratory apparatus can be placed in 1N HCI or 1N HNO3 for no more than 6 hours at room temperature. (Glassware is often boiled in 1N HNO3 for 1 hour). Then rinse with deionized water. In order to minimize organic contamination, the experimental apparatus may be first washed with a base or a solvent such as ethanol.

4. Wiping and brushing method
Bottle-top dispensers The usual method of wiping and brushing is to use a cloth or sponge that is well immersed in the cleaning agent for subsequent cleaning. Laboratory equipment must not be cleaned with an abrasive detergent to avoid damage to the surface.