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Also called: Lab autoclave, Vertical autoclave

Laboratory Autoclave: Vertical and Benchtop Lab Autoclaves

Choosing a lab autoclave for culture media, glassware, liquids and biohazard waste — sizes, cycles and the services your room needs.

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What labs autoclave

Media and liquids

Needs a liquids cycle with slow exhaust so bottles do not boil over, and ideally a load-temperature probe.

Glassware and tools

Dry goods cycle with drying; wrapped items need good air removal.

Biohazard waste

Decontamination before disposal, in autoclavable bags, with a cycle long enough for the bag size.

Vertical vs horizontal

Vertical (top-loading)Horizontal (front-loading)
Sizes35–150 L20–100 L benchtop, larger floor units
LoadingBaskets from the topShelves from the front
StrengthLarge volume per floor spaceEasier to load heavy items

Room requirements

  • Floor space with clearance for the lid and ventilation.
  • Adequate electrical supply — larger units may need a dedicated circuit.
  • Water supply and drain, depending on model.
  • Extraction or ventilation for steam and odour, especially for waste.

Regulation

A laboratory autoclave used only for media, glassware or waste is generally not marketed as a medical device. One sold for sterilising medical instruments is, and must be registered with the MDA. Tell us the intended use so we quote the right unit.

Frequently asked questions

What size lab autoclave do I need?
Size by your largest single load — usually the waste bag or media volume per day. 50 to 80 litre vertical units are common in university and hospital labs.
Can a lab autoclave sterilise liquids safely?
Yes, if it has a liquids cycle with controlled exhaust and you use vented closures. Never autoclave sealed bottles.
Do lab autoclaves need validation?
For accredited or GMP labs, yes — installation, operational and performance qualification under ISO 17665 principles, and periodic re-validation.

Get a written quotation

Tell us your clinic or lab type, daily workload and location. We match suitable models and send a written quotation with delivery, installation and training spelled out.