How to Sterilize Tattoo Supplies

A tattoo artist or shop owner realizes the importance of sterilizing equipment. Failing to do so can infect customers with a variety of bacteria and viruses. Tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C as well as HIV can be contracted through dirty tattoo supplies. A little time and effort can remove the danger to your customers and to yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Diluted bleach and water solution
• Autoclave machine
• Ultrasonic machine
• Sterilized towels

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Clean all non-disposable supplies before sterilizing them. Take all removable parts from equipment and gather all hand tools. Wash all parts and supplies in anti-bacterial soap and warm water. Dry all of them with a sterilized towel.

• 2

  Place the directed amount of ultrasonic cleaning solution in the bin of the ultrasonic sterilizer. Put the supplies into the bin. Turn on the sterilizer. Let the supplies sterilize for three to ten minutes. Take the items out of the bin. Dry them with a sterilized towel.

• 3

  Put on the proper protective equipment for using the autoclave machine. This includes loose-fitting thermal gloves, a face shield and apron. Place the items to be sterilized into the provided blue pouches. Place the blue pouches in the autoclave machine. Close the door tightly.

• 4

  Turn on the autoclave. Run it for a minimum of one hour. An indicator strip on the pouches changes color when the items inside are sterile. Check chamber pressure before opening the door. Crack the door before opening it fully. Shut off the autoclave and unplug the cable. Leave items in the sterilizer until they are next used.