1- Misuse instruments or overstrain parts or racks. Do not process powered instruments in an ultrasonic cleaner.
2- Use abrasives on instruments, as this will destroy the surface finish. That may later cause discoloration, rusting, or pitting.
3- Never Handle instruments by their tips. These should be cleaned by trained personnel only who will ensure the delicate working ends are well protected during storage or sterilization.
4- Pack instruments with other, more difficult instruments. Remember always – heavy instruments on the bottom and light instruments on the top.
5- Use general-purpose oils for instruments; only water-soluble lubricants should be used.
6- Leave instruments soaking longer than necessary in chemical sterilizing solutions. After they have been sterilized they should be washed thoroughly in warm water to remove all traces of the chemicals to prevent discoloration or pitting.
7- Store wet instruments. They must be thoroughly dried first.
8- Never expose stainless steel instruments to bleach or other chemicals for disinfection. Disclosure to bleach will result in severe pitting of your instruments and will void all manufacturer’s guarantees.
9- Do not leave soiled instruments to dry. If it is impossible to clean them immediately after use, soak them in cold water.
10- Never use cutters on instruments. This will spoil the surface finish and may later cause pitting, discoloration, or rusting.
11- Don't make bladed instruments touch any other instruments.
12- Don't put instruments of different metals in the same cleaning cycle.
13- Do not use steel wool or wire brushes for cleaning.
14- Do not use common Saline as it commences the process of corrosion.
15- Do NOT use a silicone spray as this will present the instrument unsterile.