The use of sterilizing machinery is essential for modern medical professionals. The main goal of the healthcare industry is to keep patients as safe and healthy as possible, and that begins with the use of medical equipment that is 100 percent clean and sanitary.

Today’s medical facilities can turn to two possible options to fulfill this purpose: either an autoclave or a sterilizer. How does one sterilization machine differ from another? We’ve compiled a general guide outlining these pieces of equipment to ensure you invest in the correct machine. Here’s a closer look at the difference between autoclaves and sterilizers.

Autoclaves: Sterilization by Steam

At the core, both autoclaves and sterilizers are sterilization devices used for disinfecting medical equipment. The main difference between autoclaves and sterilizers lies in their design and intended method of disinfection.

An autoclave is a specific sterilizing device whose name is a combination of words from ancient languages. “Auto” means “self” in Greek, while “clave” is the Latin word for “key.” Essentially, an autoclave is an automatic “self-locking” sterilizer. This vital difference sets the device apart from others on the market. Another notable distinction of a specialized autoclave is its disinfection mode. An autoclave’s main purpose is to remove bacteria, fungi, spores, and viruses from an object’s surface. The system solely utilizes steam to do so.

Sterilizers: Sterilization Through Diverse Methods

Conversely, a sterilizer refers to a device that can sterilize small pieces of equipment needed for medical applications. An autoclave falls under this category term. Basically, all autoclaves are a type of sterilizer, but not all sterilizing systems are autoclaves. In general, sterilizers use chemicals, heat, high pressure, irradiation, filtration, or a medley of methods to disinfect and kill all forms of microbial life on the surface of objects.

Choosing the Right Sterilizing Unit

The terms autoclave and sterilizer are often used interchangeably. Yet, noting their distinctions from each other remains important for intended applications. Ultimately, the right choice of medical sterilizer or autoclave machine depends on the size and needs of your practice, office, or care facility. The best sterilizing unit is one that accommodates your equipment load and budget.

Cascade Health Care is a leading supplier of high-quality medical supplies and equipment, including medical sterilizers and autoclaves. We supply these vital machines so you can provide exceptional care to your patients. Our collection of reliable sterilizing equipment contains options from the trusted brands of All American, Ritter, and Tuttnauer. Glance through our online inventory to meet your needs today.