How to Sterilize a Tattoo Needle
Sterilizing the needle is the most important part of home tattooing, as one can expose himself to a number of infections, if the needle is not sterilized. Usually, needles are disposed off after they are used on any particular person, and cannot be used to another one. In the meantime, other equipment used in tattoo making process can be sterilized and used again with different people.
Many people think that burning the needle or cleaning it with alcohol makes it sterilized. However, that is not true. The only effective way that can be used to properly sterilize a needle or other equipment is to use autoclave. The autoclave is used to kill any living organisms on the needle by using extreme pressure and heat. If you plan to sterilize a needle with any another process, do not even think of it as the needle can be really harmful for your health.
Instructions
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1
First of all, you will have to buy an autoclave. For that purpose, you can visit a nearby tattoo shop and ask the owner where he bought it. Moreover, dentists also use them to their equipment. Therefore, you can ask your dentist too about it. If you find it difficult to go outside and search for the autoclave, the easiest way is to order it online through different medical supplies shop. You can find medical supplies stores online at eBay, Amazon or even Craigslist. Make sure you read reviews about the product/brand, before you buy it.
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Now set up the autoclave by using the instructions that came along with the product. Make sure you follow them properly, in order to completely get rid of germs from the needle.
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Wash your needles and tubes. Put on heavy rubber gloves along with apron before continuing the process. Scrub the equipment with soap and water and soak them in soapy hot water for around 5 minutes.
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Now place the needles and tubes in the basket or any other bag came with the autoclave, before putting them in the autoclave machine. Make sure the water level is not above the highest mark or below the lowest mark, before you turn on the machine.
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Usually, the sterilising process takes about 1 to 2 hours. However, you can read complete instructions that came with the machine, to ensure the correct time that the specific machine takes to complete the process. After you are done, the needles and equipment are ready to be used again.
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