Ultrasonic Cleaners

[Papa Gee]

Ok, I'm getting ready to buy an autoclave. I'm gonna need an ultrasonic too. I see that there are many different models on ebay and other sources. Median price seems to run about $25.00 to $50.00. But there are also some units that run in the $300.00 to $500.00 price range.

Will the cheaper models actually preclean tattoo tubes and tips to the degree that they need to be cleaned? I'm all about saving a buck but I'm more interested in getting equipment that actually does the job.

[framey]

:evil:

[Anonymous]

we have a good cleaner here at the shop , and I still dont like it ,just dosnt get everything out ... so i have reverted back to using pipecleaners and brushes prior to autoclaving ...

[MedusaQueen]

Whether you use an ultra-sonic or not, you should always clean the tubes first with pipe cleaners or, as I prefer, with the little brushes used to clean air brush equipment; they get in the little holes well and scrub great. Bottle brushes are good for the actual tube. The ultra-sonic is just to break loose the ink and stuff stuck up in the tube, but if you scrub and rinse thoroughly prior to sterilization, you shouldn't even need an ultra-sonic; it's just an extra, pre-cautionary step, and therefore, I would recommend something that will last, but don't go all out just for an ultra-sonic. The important part is scrubbing well, rinsing better, and sterilizing.

[Luckyshot]

Medusa has said it all,we use ultra sonic cleaners because f the volume we do at the shop,we cant get to scrubbing intill the end of the day,it knocks the ink loose,but thats about it,they do not clean the tips and tubes for you,youll still need to clean them before sterlizing

[imported_NeedleJack]

PapaG: The more expensive brands include timers and are actually heaters as well. You will find the less expensive brands do not have a time cycle nor do they heat the solution. That is the biggest difference. As far as better. It depends on if heating the solution and timing is important. I on a personal level think that with all that is going on - yes having a bell ring in the background is important as well as heating the solution. Others may disagree. You can easily soak your tubes all night with simple green and the next day put them in the ultrasonic for 10 minutes after scrubbing your tubes with a tube brush and that will be fine. Regardless of warm or cold. That's my 411.