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Autoclaving Laboratory Glassware (and Media)

Glassware that is to be used for cell growth must be sterilized beforehand. This is accomplished by first chemically disinfecting the glassware with 10% bleach or 70% ethanol (See wiki Chemical Disinfection of Glassware). Next, follow the procedure below for autoclaving.

# Collect all glassware that will be used in the upcoming experiment. Be sure to also collect any glassware that will be indirectly used: graduated cylinders, glass syringes, etc.
# If cell growth media is being autoclaved concurrently, make sure all glassware has a small amount of water (5-10% full) inside. If media is not being sterilized the water is not needed. 
# Cover all openings of the glassware with aluminum foil. Use enough to securely hold the foil on the glass.
# Place into an autoclavable container. Polypropylene (PP) is a safe plastic that can withstand the autoclave. Be careful to not use polyethylene (PE), as it will melt in the autoclave! If autoclaving media, place a small amount of water (just enough to cover the bottom) in the plastic container.
# Use a cart to transport the container and glassware to the autoclave.
# Open the autoclave by holding the white button while gently pulling down on the door handle. 
# Choose an appropriate autoclave program. 1 through 3 are LIQUIDS which are used to sterilize liquid media. Choose 4, which is VACUUM, if the glassware is empty.
# Sign the log book.
# Remove the container and glassware when the program is finished (~50 min). Be careful of the steam released from the autoclave when it is opened after being recently used. Also wear heat resistant gloves to pick up the container.   
# Close the autoclave between uses. The autoclave needs to stay at about 115C to operate quickly.

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