How to Properly Put a Microscope Away

A phase-contrast microscope

Microscopes are used by scientists, students and hobbyists to see things that are too small to see with the naked eye. Proper care for a microscope requires that the equipment be put away properly after each time it is used. Putting a microscope away properly can be done by following a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Lens tissue
• Kimwipe or other lab tissue
• Dust cover

Instructions

1. Place the lowest power objective lens in place.

2. Remove any slides from the stage.

3. Use lens tissue to clean off each objective lens on the microscope. Use a separate piece to clean off the eyepiece(s).

4. Use the coarse focus knob to lower the stage as far down as it will go.

5. Clean off the stage using a Kimwipe or other tissue.

6. Unplug the microscope, pulling from the plug and not the cord.

7. Wrap the power cord around the bottom of the microscope.

8. Cover the microscope with its dust cover.

9. Place the covered microscope in its proper place in a cupboard or on a shelf.

Tips & Warnings

• Only use lens tissue to clean the objective lenses and eyepieces. Other tissues, such as Kimwipes, can scratch lens surfaces.

Resources

• Microscope Care
• Microscope Care & Use