Washing glassware by hand in your lab is not the best or easiest way to keep your glassware clean. Instead, the right glassware washer can help improve the efficiency of your lab, reduce your lab’s energy and water consumption, and save your lab money. This equipment cleans glassware more effectively than handwashing and limits your lab workers’ exposure to potentially harmful substances. For a list of glassware washer manufacturers, see our online directory: LabManager.com/glassware-washer-manufacturers
6 Questions to Ask When Buying a Glassware Washer:
- How much glassware does your lab use in a day and what capacity will you require?
- Can the washer be reconfigured to accommodate different sized glassware?
- What applications are you using the glassware for and what washing conditions are required (e.g. high temperatures, forced-air drying using HEPA filters)?
- How long does it take to run a full wash cycle?
- What temperature and cycle options are available?
- How energy efficient is the unit and how much water does it require?
Cleaning Agents
Effectively reprocessing your lab’s glassware is also dependent on the cleaning agents being used. Do not forget to make sure you are using the detergents, emulsifiers, or neutralizing agents needed for the cleaning requirements you have. You can learn more by watching this short video: LabManager.com/glassware-washer-video
Minimizing Environmental Impact
When buying a new glassware washer, try to find one that both suits your needs and will have limited impact on the environment. Purchasing washers that have flowmeters and shorter cycles can help you build a more sustainable lab. Additionally, taking into consideration the materials used to build the machine can have lasting impact on the environment. Buying a washer that was constructed with easily recyclable materials means your washer will be less likely to end up in a landfill after decommission.
