How to Disinfect Needles
Regardless of your purpose for using a needle, if it's going to touch your skin it should first be disinfected. This will prevent you from exposure to bacteria and germs that can cause infection. The extra step only takes a few seconds and can certainly save you a trip to the hospital later on. Make a habit out of disinfecting needles just in case.Things You'll Need
- Cup
- Needle
- Rubbing alcohol
- Sterile latex gloves
- Sterile napkin
- Soap
- Lighter
- Sterile tweezers
Instructions
-
Soaking Method
-
1
Fill a sterile cup with rubbing alcohol or bleach. Either of these chemicals is strong enough to sterilize a needle.
-
2
Drop the used or infected needle into the cup. Let it soak for at least one minute.
-
3
Remove the needle using your hands as long as you're wearing clean latex or rubber gloves. Before the needle comes into contact with skin or any other sensitive surface, it should be clear of any residue from the chemical. Rinse the needle under cool, running water until the chemical smell is gone. Allow it to dry by sitting it on a clean surface such as a sterile napkin.
Heat Method
-
4
Identify which type of material the needle is made from. Modern sewing needles are typically made from steel wire which is suitable for exposure to heat. Other types of needles, such as those for medical use, can be made of plastic or glass which cannot be heated.
-
5
Wash the needle with soap and warm water. Focus on freeing up any surface dirt, oils or grime that might burn when exposed to a heat source. Dry off the needle using a sterile napkin after washing.
-
6
Strike a fire using a cigarette lighter. If you don't have access to a cigarette lighter, any gas-fueled heat source will suffice.
-
7
Hold the needle using a sterile pair of scissors and place it near, not on top of or inside, the flame. Run the needle along the side of the flame and allow the heat to kill any bacteria.
-
1