A variety of stains or spotting might appear on your instruments after the cleaning and autoclaving processes have been completed. Most likely, these are not rust, but rather an indication of improper cleaning or sterilizing procedures.
The following chart can help you identify and prevent or remove many of stains that typically show up on nippers.
Stain/Spot Colour |
Possible Causes |
Solutions |
Brown/Orange |
Bio-burden (tissue, blood, etc.) left on instrument |
Use an eraser/buffer to rub off the stain |
Detergent pH is too high (>8) |
Choose a cleaning solution with a neutral pH |
|
Soap/detergent residue on drapes/ towels used in wrapping | Review laundry protocol to improve soap-free rinse | |
Rust |
Mixing instruments made of different metals in the same cleaning or sterilizing cycle |
Separate instruments by metal type for cleaning and sterilization |
Tap water has high mineral content |
Use distilled water and thoroughly dry instruments after rinsing | |
Black/Brown with Pitting
|
Cold soaking of instruments |
Eliminate cold soaking and potential exposure to chemicals during that process |
Detergent pH is too low (<6) |
Choose a cleaning solution with a neutral pH |
|
Blue/Black |
Mixing instruments made of different metals in the same cleaning or sterilizing cycle | Separate instruments by metal type for cleaning and sterilization |
Blue/Gray |
Improper cold sterilization |
Check solution instructions and follow recommended temperature and soak times |
Chemical or mineral residue |
Use distilled water and thoroughly dry instruments after rinsing |
|
Spotting |
Slow or improper drying of instruments |
Review autoclave manufacturer’s instructions |
Mineral residue |
Use distilled water and thoroughly dry instruments after rinsing | |
Multi / Rainbow Colour |
Excessive heat during sterilizing cycle |
Review autoclave instructions |