The quality of sterilization affects everything — the health of clients, professionals, and even the sharpness and appearance of the tools. Let’s go over all the stages of sterilization that every specialist must understand.
MAIN STAGES OF TOOL STERILIZATION
Tool sterilization is a process that consists of several consecutive stages. If even one stage is skipped, the tools may remain non-sterile, posing a risk to the health of clients and specialists.
Typically, sterilization includes 3 stages:
- Pre-sterilization cleaning
- Sterilization
- Storage of instruments after sterilization
Each stage has its own function — from eliminating bacteria to protecting the tool’s surface from damage.
1. PRE-STERILIZATION TREATMENT
1.1 Antiseptic hand treatment
First of all, you need to eliminate pathogens present on your hands to avoid contaminating surfaces, your workspace, and materials.
It is not recommended to wash your hands before applying antiseptic, as water can reduce its effectiveness.
Thoroughly apply antiseptic to your hands after removing all jewelry. To avoid contact with contaminated tools, wear disposable gloves.
1.2 Tool disinfection
At this stage, you eliminate a portion of bacteria, fungi, and viruses from the tools’ surface.
After the procedure, collect all used tools in a separate container for dirty instruments and prepare the disinfectant solution. See our solution preparation guide for proper proportions.
Steps to prepare disinfectant solution:
- Measure the required amount of water using a measuring container.
- Pour water into the working container – a disinfection container or ultrasonic cleaner.
- Measure the disinfectant concentrate using a syringe or measuring container.
- Add the concentrate to the water.
This order complies with chemical handling rules and prevents the aggressive solution from damaging the container material.
If disinfecting in a container, prepare it as follows:
Attach a label to the lid indicating:
- Name of the product
- Solution concentration
- Date and time of preparation
- Expiry date and time
- Name of the person who prepared it (if multiple specialists work with tools)
If disinfecting in an ultrasonic cleaner, place it on a flat surface and turn it on.
After preparing the solution:
- Place the tools on a perforated tray, inside the container, or into the ultrasonic cleaner, depending on the chosen method. Tools like scissors or nippers must be opened!
- Completely immerse the tools — solution level should be at least 1 cm above them.
- Close the container lid or select the correct ultrasonic mode.
- Set the timer according to the disinfectant manufacturer’s instructions.
Important:
Do not make the solution more concentrated or keep tools in it longer than instructed — it may damage the tool surface and dull the edges.
In 99% of cases, overconcentration or prolonged exposure is the reason for damage or corrosion.
1.3 Tool cleaning
Rinse the tools thoroughly under running water with a brush to remove debris and chemical residue.
If this step is skipped, leftover particles may burn into the surface during sterilization, damaging the cutting edges.
1.4 Tool drying
Tools must be dried before dry-heat sterilization.
Dry with paper towels, leave on a clean surface, or use the drying mode in a MicroSTOP dry-heat sterilizer: 80°C for 30 minutes.
Do not place wet tools in the sterilizer.
Water drops may cause yellow stains or damage the heating element.
Drying in the sterilizer is done without sterilization pouches.
2. TOOL STERILIZATION
Only dry and properly cleaned tools should be placed in the sterilizer.
If using sterilization pouches:
- Place clean, dry, opened tools inside the bag, with sharp edges up or to the side. Tools should occupy no more than ¾ of the bag volume.
- Seal the bag tightly along the perforated line.
- Place the bags horizontally on trays or vertically in holders.
Rules:
- Do not block more than 70% of the sterilizer’s vents.
- Do not stack bags.
If sterilizing without sterilization pouches:
- Attach 5 Class IV indicator stickers to each metal tray (4 corners, 1 center).
- Place clean, dry, opened tools on the tray.
- Load the tray into the sterilizer.
Rules:
- Do not stack tools.
- Do not block vents.
Sterilization modes:
- 180°C / 60 min — for bags
- 160°C / 150 min or 180°C / 60 min — without bags
- 200°C / 30 min — quick mode (not recommended regularly)
Start the program. Wait until the temperature reaches the set point and the countdown begins.
At the end of the cycle, wait 15 minutes for the chamber to cool. You may open the lid to speed this up.
Check that the indicators have changed color.
Do not open the lid during sterilization — the process will be compromised.
3. TOOL STORAGE
All efforts go to waste if you don’t ensure sterile storage.
- If using sterilization pouches, instruments remain sterile for up to 50 days.
- If not, store tools in a UV cabinet, which inhibits microorganism growth.
Note: UV cabinets are for storage only, not sterilization.
HOW TO USE A DRY-HEAT STERILIZER
Proper use ensures effectiveness.
Remember:
- Tools must be clean and dry.
- Use bags optionally.
- Do not interrupt the cycle.
Sterilization modes:
- 160°C — 150 minutes
- 180°C — 60 minutes
- 200°C — 30 minutes
These modes are approved by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What are the key stages of tool sterilization?
Pre-cleaning (disinfection, washing, drying), sterilization, and storage. Each step is essential.
What’s the difference between disinfection and sterilization?
Disinfection kills some pathogens but not spores. Sterilization eliminates all microorganisms completely.
What does pre-sterilization cleaning involve?
Removing organic residues and disinfectants via manual or ultrasonic cleaning.
How is sterilization in a dry-heat sterilizer performed?
Place dry tools into the sterilizer and run the full cycle based on the selected mode. Cool before use or storage.
How long does dry-heat sterilization take?
60 to 150 minutes depending on the mode. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
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