Articles
Instrument care and sterilisation
February 2026
Stainless steel is not maintenance-free. Organic residue, chloride solutions and wet standing can start stains and corrosion.
Washing
Every instrument leaving the theatre should be washed as soon as possible. Use neutral or mildly alkaline detergents in line with manufacturer guidance. Wire brushes and abrasive powders damage the cutting edge.
Drying and storage
Drying must be complete. Moisture left behind becomes staining. Store instruments so they cannot strike one another, in dry, ordered trays. This routine is as critical as manufacture itself.
