Tattoo Equipment Sterilization

Tattoos and Dirtiness Do Not Mix

It’s a brand new year, which means it may be time for a brand new tattoo. But before you head out the door for your nearest tattoo shop, let’s talk about cleanliness. When it comes to getting a tattoo, cleanliness is of the utmost importance, especially as far as tattoo equipment sterilization is concerned. The process tattoo equipment sterilization is an extremely important topic anyone who’s considering getting a tattoo should be aware of. It is the tattoo artist and shop’s top priority to keep the area where tattoos come to life as clean as possible. This being the case, tattoo equipment sterilization is accomplished in a variety of ways, all of which are very important to the livelihood of the shop and to the individual client’s safety.

A Deeper Look into Sterilizing Tattoo Equipment

Autoclave sterilizers are, among people in the tattooing industry, considered to be the gold standard when it comes to sterilizing any type of tattoo equipment that is not deemed single use or disposable. However, the mere presence of an autoclave machine in a tattoo shop is not necessarily a guarantee that the shop is up to standard, for these machines must be inspected on a regular basis. Do not be afraid to ask to see the autoclave machine at your chosen tattoo shop. A reputable establishment won’t be afraid to tell you about its tattoo equipment sterilization protocol.

Makeshift autoclave machines, such as pressure cookers or toaster ovens, are not acceptable and pose a safety risk. Much of the equipment used from client to client, including rubber gloves, color cups, needles, razors and other items, should be disposable and never reused. When visiting with your artist during the consultation process, do not hesitate to ask about his or her sanitation practices. You could even ask for a tour of the workspace because it is important for the client to be proactive and get a tattoo from a qualified artist and studio that follow the necessary tattoo equipment sterilization guidelines. 

What Should Happen During Cleanup?

The cleanup that occurs after the tattooing process is as important as the sanitizing practices that take place beforehand. The person cleaning the tattoo station should spray and wipe down the entire work area(s) using a medical-grade sanitizing spray. Any plastic bags or plastic wrap taped to spray bottles, table surfaces and other pieces of tattoo equipment should be removed and thrown away. Any disposable items, such as color cups and rubber gloves, should also be properly thrown away. Further, needles should be placed into a medical-grade sharps container. These are just a few practices that should take place between clients; some artists may opt to go even further, which is a good thing.

Tattoo Equipment Sterilization Takeaways

Any artist who upholds the necessary tattoo equipment sterilization standards will take the time to make you feel comfortable and safe about the cleanliness of their station and the tattoo shop as a whole. Do not hesitate to ask questions. If anything feels off or the artist refuses to answer your questions, rethink your commitment to that particular shop. Your health and safety is always of the utmost importance, so be sure to find a tattoo artist who feels the same way.