Which Ultrasonic Cleaner Do I Need?
Which ultrasonic cleaner do I need?
How to pre-clean medical instruments correctly — and choose the right ultrasonic cleaner.
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In short
The right ultrasonic cleaner depends on instrument type and quantity. It thoroughly removes blood and soiling from instruments — the mandatory pre-stage before sterilization.
Cleaning medical instruments
Cleaning medical instruments with an ultrasonic cleaner
Medical instruments must always be sterile before they can be used. The first step in this process is cleaning your medical instruments in an ultrasonic cleaner. An ultrasonic cleaner thoroughly and quickly removes blood, wound fluid and soiling from your medical instruments. Afterwards you can sterilize them in an autoclave. Steri24 is a specialist in the field of medical ultrasonic cleaners. Our devices therefore comply with all medical guidelines.
How does an ultrasonic cleaner work?
In an ultrasonic cleaner, medical instruments are cleaned according to the cavitation principle. Using pressure and sound waves, gas-filled bubbles are formed which then burst. The formation and implosion of these bubbles generate tens of thousands of currents that guide the instruments, resulting in extremely thorough cleaning.
Why an ultrasonic cleaner for my medical instruments?
Cleaning your medical instruments in an ultrasonic device has many advantages. We list the most important ones for you.
- Extremely thorough cleaning: your instruments are freed from soiling, blood and wound fluid.
- The ultrasonic cleaner works with waves combined with water and/or a cleaning fluid: your instruments are not damaged.
- Suitable for a wide range of medical instruments: even hollow shapes are no problem for the ultrasonic cleaner.
- Easy to use and lightning fast.
Sterilizing medical instruments
Have you cleaned your medical instruments in the ultrasonic cleaner? Then you can sterilize them with an autoclave. A Steri24 autoclave sterilizes your medical instruments using hot steam, which actually kills all organisms and bacteria. This way you can be sure that your medical instruments are 100% sterile.
Steri24: the specialist for ultrasonic cleaners and autoclaves in the medical and dental field
All our ultrasonic cleaners and autoclaves are of absolute top quality and meet the prescribed medical guidelines. Our customers include:
- Dentists
- General practices
- Medical clinics
- Veterinarians
- Podiatry
- Midwifery practices
- Tattoo shops
Are you looking for an ultrasonic cleaner or autoclave for your practice or clinic? Our specialists will be happy to provide you with non-binding advice and further information. You can reach us at +43 (0) 732 674 278 or support@certoclav.com.
You don't have to manage this alone
The most common concerns of our customers — and how we solve them.
„Is hand cleaning enough?“
No — only ultrasound reaches cavities deep down without damaging the instruments.
Clean is the first step to sterile.
Without thorough pre-cleaning there is no safe sterilization. Find the right ultrasonic cleaner.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ultrasonic cleaner selection – key questions answered clearly.
How does an ultrasonic cleaner work?
An ultrasonic cleaner works on the cavitation principle: sound waves create tiny bubbles in the cleaning bath that implode abruptly. These micro-currents dissolve blood, wound fluid and soiling even from cavities and crevices, without mechanically stressing the instruments.
What do I need an ultrasonic cleaner for in my practice?
The ultrasonic cleaner handles the thorough cleaning and pre-cleaning of your instruments before they are sterilized. Clean is the first step to sterile: without deep, pore-level cleaning, subsequent sterilization cannot work reliably.
Which ultrasonic cleaner do I need?
This depends primarily on instrument type, instrument length and the daily quantity. For small studios a compact device is often sufficient, while larger practices and clinics benefit from more capacity. Our specialists will be happy to advise you and recommend the right model.
What size or volume should my ultrasonic cleaner have?
The tank must be large and deep enough for your longest instruments to be fully immersed in the cleaning solution. Steri24 offers devices from about 3 to 22 liters; for larger quantities choose a larger tank volume to avoid sound shadows caused by overloading.
Is an ultrasonic cleaner mandatory for instrument reprocessing?
According to the RKI an ultrasonic cleaner is not strictly required in every case. Manual pre-cleaning may be sufficient, but for critical instruments machine cleaning is required; for Critical A instruments the ultrasonic cleaner is considered a suitable method.
Is an ultrasonic cleaner enough, or do I also need an autoclave?
As soon as instruments come into contact with blood or mucous membranes, a Class B autoclave is required for sterilization. The ultrasonic cleaner complements the autoclave in pre-cleaning and disinfection, but does not replace it.
Does an ultrasonic cleaner replace a UV or hot-air device?
Ultrasonic, UV and hot-air devices are not sufficient for sterilizing critical instruments. Hot-air sterilizers have not been approved for critical instruments since 2021; a Class B autoclave is required for safe sterilization.
Is hand cleaning of the instruments alone enough?
Hand cleaning alone often does not reliably reach cavities and fine crevices. The ultrasonic cleaner also cleans hard-to-reach areas deep down and gently, without damaging the instruments.
Which devices are medical devices and which are not?
Autoclaves and our higher-grade ultrasonic cleaners are medical devices. Sealing devices fall under the Machinery Directive and only carry the CE mark. For the reprocessing of Critical A instruments, an ultrasonic cleaner declared as a medical device is not strictly required.
Which Steri24 ultrasonic cleaners are medical devices?
Our higher-grade professional devices are certified as medical devices, while the more affordable models are not medical devices but are suitable for manual instrument reprocessing. We are happy to clarify in a consultation which model suits your application.
What do I put into the ultrasonic cleaner?
Distilled or demineralized water plus about 1% of a suitable cleaning concentrate. For 2 liters of water that is roughly 20 ml. Use a cleaning agent that is certified for medical instruments and tested for ultrasound use.
Which cleaning or disinfection fluid is suitable for the ultrasonic cleaner?
An ultrasound-tested cleaning and disinfection solution such as our Multisteril is suitable for the Steri24 ultrasonic cleaners. The dosage is on average about 2%; further details are given in the instructions for use of the respective agent.
How long and at what temperature do I clean instruments in the ultrasonic cleaner?
Typically about 5 minutes at around 60 degrees C; this often shortens the required contact time of the disinfectant. The optimal temperature can be set on the device, and a complete cleaning cycle takes around 20 minutes in total.
Does the ultrasonic bath belong to disinfection or to sterilization?
The ultrasonic bath belongs to the cleaning and disinfection reprocessing step, not to sterilization. Critical instruments must then be dried, packaged and sterilized in the autoclave.
What is the correct sequence of instrument reprocessing?
Reprocessing is carried out in several steps: pre-cleaning and cleaning (e.g. in the ultrasonic bath or thermal disinfector), disinfection, drying and packaging, then steam sterilization in the autoclave. The exact requirements follow RKI/KRINKO and the instrument manufacturer's specifications.
What operating frequency should an ultrasonic cleaner for instruments have?
The KRINKO recommends ultrasonic baths with an operating frequency in the range of about 30 to 50 kHz for reprocessing. In this range, medical ultrasonic cleaners work particularly effectively for surgical and dental instruments.
How often do I have to change the cleaning solution in the ultrasonic bath?
According to KRINKO the solution should be freshly prepared at least every working day, and several times a day if visibly soiled. This prevents microbial growth, cross-contamination and a decline in cleaning performance.
May I overload the ultrasonic basket?
No. The basket should not be overloaded so that no sound shadows form. The instruments must be disassembled and placed so that all surfaces are freely wetted by the cleaning solution, otherwise the ultrasonic waves cannot act everywhere.
Do instruments have to be disassembled before the ultrasonic bath?
Yes, dismountable instruments should be disassembled and placed open in the basket. Only then can the ultrasound reach all surfaces, joints and cavities completely.
Do the instruments have to be fully submerged in the solution?
Yes. For full effect, all parts of the instrument must be completely wetted by liquid inside and out. The basket must therefore be large and deep enough for full immersion of your longest instruments.
Are all instruments suitable for ultrasonic cleaning?
Not all of them. Caution is required, for example, with bonded joints and optics, and with soft or air-filled products the sound transmission is limited. When in doubt, you should ask the instrument manufacturer about suitability.
Can the ultrasonic cleaner damage my instruments?
Not when used correctly: the ultrasonic cleaner works with sound waves combined with water and cleaning solution and cleans gently, without mechanical abrasion. However, observe the manufacturer's instructions for sensitive instruments.
Can I also clean instruments with cavities in the ultrasonic cleaner?
Yes, even hollow shapes are no problem for the ultrasonic cleaner, since cavitation acts in crevices and lumens. Make sure that the cavities are completely filled with solution and that no air bubbles are trapped.
Should the tank of my ultrasonic cleaner be heated?
A heating function is useful because many cleaning and disinfection agents only reach their temperature optimum at about 50 to 60 degrees C. With enzymatic cleaners, however, the temperature optimum must not be exceeded, which is why the device should regulate the temperature itself.
Should I cover the ultrasonic tank?
Yes, covering the ultrasonic baths is recommended for occupational safety reasons. It reduces aerosols and protects staff during operation.
Why is my ultrasonic cleaner no longer cleaning properly?
Common causes are an overloaded or incorrectly loaded tank with sound shadows, a spent or under-dosed cleaning solution, or an incorrect temperature. The ultrasonic transducer is also subject to wear; if performance declines, our service can help.
What does cavitation mean in an ultrasonic cleaner?
Cavitation refers to the formation and implosion of tiny bubbles in the liquid caused by sound waves. When they burst, micro-currents with high local energy are created that detach soiling from the instrument surface.
Do I have to degas the cleaning solution before use?
Freshly prepared solution contains dissolved air, which initially dampens cavitation. A short run of the device before first use allows the bath to degas and improves cleaning performance. Observe the notes in the instructions for use of your device.
How do I choose between a small and a large ultrasonic cleaner?
The decisive factors are instrument length and daily reprocessing volume. A small device is sufficient for a few short instruments and sensitive parts; with higher throughput or long instruments, more tank volume is sensible. Feel free to use our consultation.
Is a small ultrasonic cleaner also suitable for sensitive products?
Yes, a small ultrasonic cleaner is well suited for the gentle cleaning of sensitive products and smaller quantities of instruments. For the machine reprocessing of critical instruments, however, the device should meet the corresponding requirements.
Which ultrasonic cleaner suits a tattoo or piercing studio?
For studios with a manageable quantity of instruments, a compact device is usually sufficient for thorough pre-cleaning of the tools. Since tattoo and piercing instruments generally have to be sterilized, combine the ultrasonic cleaner with a Class B autoclave.
Which ultrasonic cleaner suits podiatry and foot care?
In podiatry and foot care, a compact to medium-sized device that can safely hold the typical instruments has proven effective. Since many of these instruments are critical, sterilization in a Class B autoclave follows afterwards.
Which ultrasonic cleaner is suitable for a dental practice?
Dental practices usually have many small instruments and high throughput, so a powerful, heatable device with sufficient volume makes sense. We are happy to match the model to your instrument quantity and your workflow.
Which ultrasonic cleaner is suitable for a veterinary practice?
Veterinary practices benefit from a robust device with sufficient tank volume, since larger instruments of varying lengths often occur here. We are happy to advise you on the right size for your practice or clinic.
Which ultrasonic cleaner is suitable for a clinic?
Clinics with a high volume of instruments generally choose a larger device and embed it in a validated reprocessing process. For complete reprocessing solutions including a washer-disinfector and autoclave, we are happy to prepare a tailored offer for you.
Besides the ultrasonic cleaner, do I need a thermal disinfector or a washer-disinfector?
This depends on the risk class of the instruments: for Critical A instruments an ultrasonic cleaner is sufficient, while for Critical B instruments a washer-disinfector or thermal disinfector is required. Describe your instruments to us, and we will recommend the right solution.
Do you offer thermal disinfectors or washer-disinfectors?
Yes, we offer thermal disinfectors or washer-disinfectors, also as undercounter or built-in versions. We are happy to clarify which solution makes sense for your needs in a non-binding consultation.
Are there combination offers of ultrasonic cleaner and autoclave?
Yes, you can assemble your shopping cart individually, for example an autoclave plus an ultrasonic cleaner and matching accessories, or we will create an individual package offer for you. Our sets bundle the most important components for instrument reprocessing.
Is an ultrasonic cleaner included in the autoclave sets?
Our sets and value packages bundle an autoclave and matching accessories at a discount and, depending on the package, contain components such as ultrasonic cleaners, packaging pouches and a Helix test. You can see which configuration suits you in the autoclave configurator.
How do I correctly clean periodontal probes and fine instruments?
Fine Critical A instruments such as periodontal probes are cleaned and disinfected in the ultrasonic cleaner (or washer-disinfector), then packaged and sterilized in the autoclave and stored packaged. Several instruments may lie in one package.
Which brush should I use for manual pre-cleaning?
For manual brushing, plastic rather than metal brushes are recommended so as not to damage the instruments. There is no dedicated standard for this, but the KRINKO recommendations apply.
Is chlorhexidine suitable for instrument cleaning in the ultrasonic bath?
No, chlorhexidine is fundamentally not suitable for instrument reprocessing because its spectrum of action is limited. Use a cleaning and disinfection agent approved for instrument reprocessing and for ultrasound use.
Can I clean my hearing aids in the ultrasonic cleaner?
Only if the manufacturer of the hearing aid expressly permits or has approved ultrasonic cleaning. Otherwise you risk damaging the device.
Do I need a water connection for the ultrasonic cleaner?
No, a fixed water connection is not required. You fill the tank with distilled or demineralized water and the cleaning concentrate and empty it after use.
Do the Steri24 ultrasonic cleaners meet the medical guidelines?
Steri24 is a specialist for medical ultrasonic cleaners; our devices meet the prescribed medical guidelines. Our professional devices are also certified as medical devices.
What distinguishes a medical ultrasonic cleaner from a household device?
Medical devices are designed for the reliable cleaning of instruments, with a suitable frequency, heating and temperature control as well as certified suitability. Cheap household devices generally do not meet these requirements for professional reprocessing.
Is buying an ultrasonic cleaner worthwhile compared to hand cleaning alone?
Yes, because the ultrasonic cleaner cleans faster, more evenly and deeper down than hand work and relieves your staff. At the same time, thorough pre-cleaning improves the safety of the subsequent sterilization.
How do I care for and maintain my ultrasonic cleaner?
Prepare the cleaning solution fresh at least every working day, empty and clean the tank regularly and check the operating temperature. Since the ultrasonic transducer wears out, our on-site service helps you when performance declines.
Does Steri24 offer service and advice on the ultrasonic cleaner?
Yes. Steri24 has a dense on-site service network in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and our specialists advise you free of charge on device selection. This way you find the right device for your practice or clinic.
How do I find the right ultrasonic cleaner for my practice?
The quickest way is a brief consultation: describe to us the instrument type, length and daily quantity, and we will recommend the right model. The autoclave configurator also helps to sensibly combine a cleaner, autoclave and accessories.