In our group we always use aseptic techniques and fresh media but we still have bacterial contamination, with media turbidity and pH decrease. Where can it come from?
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How to minimize contamination risk and protect your cultures
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Company: Corning
Job Title: Scientific Supporting Specialist supporting EMEA regions
Answer
Often cabinets and incubators can be a source of contamination since these are often shared among multiple people/research groups. It is therefore important to have regular maintenance and cleaning of these. Incubators should be cleaned with Lysol and 70% EtOH once a month and shelves should be autoclaved. Clean water tray often (autoclaved, distilled water) and clean spills immediately. Daily cleaning of hood space with 70% EtOH, as well as monthly cleaning with 10% bleach or equivalent products is suggested.
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