How often should a dental autoclave be cleaned?

■Dental Autoclave Cleaning Routine

●Daily (After Last Use)

Dump leftover water → Empty the tank completely to prevent stale water buildup
Wipe inside & out → Use a damp cloth on the chamber, tray, and door seal → Clean controls/handles with disinfectant wipes
Refill with distilled water → Never use tap water to avoid clogs

●Weekly

Deep-clean the chamber → Run an empty cycle with autoclave cleaner (not bleach!)
Check rubber door seals → Wipe gently with mild soapy water → Look for cracks or stiffness
Rinse the drain filter → Remove gunk under running water → air-dry before replacing

●Monthly

Remove white crusty buildup → Use autoclave descaling solution (like vinegar for coffee makers)
Test sterilization power → Run a spore test kit to confirm germs are destroyed
Inspect hoses/fittings → Check for leaks or mineral deposits

■When Things Go Wrong

• See white chalky spots? → Descaling needed now
• Catch weird smells? → Clean filters immediately
• Tools stay wet after cycles? → Check drain clogs

■3 Golden Rules

• Only distilled water ← Prevents 90% of problems
• Never skip drying ← Moisture breeds new germs
• Log every cleaning ← Critical for safety checks