How to Clean Lab Glassware
Laboratory glassware houses a variety of chemicals that may be tricky to wash away. Getting the glassware spotless isn't as straightforward as washing dishes. The wrong procedure could damage more than your glassware; it could also ruin your chemical solution or experiment. Taking some time at experiment's end and choosing the proper cleanser will extend the life of your pricey glassware.
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Things You'll Need
- Laboratory glassware Cleanser (such as sodium chloride, sucrose, concentrated hydrochloric acid) Deionized water Tap water Scrub brush Soap Ethanol or acetone (optional)
Instructions
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How to Clean Lab Glassware
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Rinse your glassware three times with a water-soluble solution such as sodium chloride or sucrose and then rinse twice with deionized water. If the water isn't clear when poured out, rinse with sodium chloride again.
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Using the fume hood, swish concentrated hydrochloric acid in the glassware, then rinse with tap water. Rinse three times with deionized water. If the water still has an acid aroma when poured out, rinse with deionized water again.
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Pipettes, burettes and flasks can be soaked in warm, soapy water overnight. To remove stronger chemical compounds or solids in the glassware, scrub with a brush. Rinse with tap water, then twice with deionized water.
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Tips & Warnings
Allow all glassware to air-dry thoroughly before using. If the glassware must be used before it is allowed to dry, rinse with ethanol or acetone to remove the water. Using a paper towel can introduce impurities to your glassware that can disturb your experiments.
