Preventing cross-contamination

Pipette-to-sample

A contaminated pipette or contaminated tips can cause contamination of samples.

Prevention:

  • Use filter tips.
  • Change the tip after pipetting each sample.
  • Clean the pipette regularly.

Sample-to-pipette

Samples or aerosols from samples can enter the cone of the pipette.

Prevention:

  • Keep the pipette vertical when pipetting in order to prevent liquid from running into the pipette body.
  • Release the push button slowly.
  • To avoid aerosol contamination, use filter tips or use a positive displacement pipette and tips.

Sample-to-sample (carry-over)

The remains of a sample can mix with the next sample inside the tip and may cause a false test result.

Prevention:

  • Change the tip after each sample.
  • If you suspect your pipette is contaminated, clean with a suitable method, and autoclave if needed.

Navigate this guide:

Liquid handling
Proper pipetting techniques
Ergonomics
Maintenance & service

California Proposition 65 Warning: Products manufactured with polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) or polystyrene (PS) contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.