Buying a podiatry autoclave involves more than comparing chamber size
and price. The machine, cycle and support arrangement must fit the
instruments, packaging, workload and records used in your practice.
Use this checklist to compare new, used, rented or financed equipment
on the same basis. For an explanation of Type N, S and B cycles, start
with the podiatry autoclave
selection guide.
1. Write down the intended
load
List every reusable instrument type, its cleaning and sterilisation
instructions, any packaging, the number of daily sets and the required
turnaround time.
Give this information to each supplier and ask for written
confirmation that the proposed model and cycle support the load.
2. Record the exact model
and version
Similar product names may cover different generations or
specifications. Record the full model, variant, serial number range and
year where available.
Do not assume that a manual, gasket, tray or service arrangement for
one generation applies to another.
3. Confirm the
permitted loads and cycles
Ask the supplier to identify the cycle proposed for each instrument
and packaging type. Check that answer against the current steriliser and
instrument instructions.
Avoid descriptions such as “medical grade”, “vacuum” or “suitable for
everything” unless the permitted loads are stated clearly.
4. Compare usable capacity
Ask for usable tray dimensions, maximum permitted load and the number
of your instrument sets that fit the approved loading arrangement.
Take physical dimensions as well as chamber volume into account. Long
instruments and cassettes may be limited by tray length rather than
litres.
5. Compare complete cycle
times
Request the complete cycle time for your proposed load and programme,
including drying where required. Ask how load size, starting temperature
and water conditions affect the quoted figure.
6. Check installation
requirements
Confirm worktop space, weight, clearance, ventilation, electrical
supply, water specification, filling, draining and delivery access
before ordering.
If the machine requires plumbing or fixed services, obtain those
costs before comparing quotations.
7. Check records and data
access
Confirm how cycle records are created, stored, backed up and
retrieved. Ask what happens if a printer, USB device, subscription or
connected service stops working.
The record system should suit the practice rather than creating an
avoidable manual task after every cycle.
8. Price servicing and
examinations
Ask for the manufacturer maintenance schedule and current service
prices. Identify what is included in a contract and what remains
chargeable.
Request separate details for routine servicing, validation or process
checks, breakdown cover and pressure-system examination. Do not treat
them as one interchangeable service.
9. Check engineer and parts
coverage
Ask who covers your postcode, typical response times, parts
availability, warranty exclusions and loan-machine terms.
For an older or discontinued model, obtain written confirmation that
the supplier can still source key parts and support the exact
version.
Review current autoclave
companies and support routes as part of the comparison.
10. Compare the total
amount payable
For a cash purchase, rental, lease or hire-purchase arrangement,
record:
- Deposit and payment schedule.
- VAT treatment.
- Total amount payable.
- Service and repair inclusions.
- Early-settlement or cancellation terms.
- Ownership at the end of the agreement.
- Return, upgrade or disposal conditions.
Take financial or tax advice where it is relevant to your
business.
New or used autoclave?
A new machine normally offers a current warranty, known support route
and a clearer installation process. A used machine may reduce the
initial cost but places more weight on model identification, history,
condition and continuing support.
Price alone should not decide between them.
Used autoclave checks
Before agreeing to buy, request:
- Exact model, serial number and age.
- Current instructions and service documentation.
- Maintenance, repair and breakdown history.
- The latest available test, validation and pressure-system
records. - A list of trays, baskets, printer parts and accessories
included. - Written confirmation of parts and engineer support.
- Details of known faults, leaks, corrosion, damage or error
codes. - The seller’s plan for decontamination, disconnection, transport and
installation. - A demonstration of operation where practical and safe.
Past records help you assess a machine, but they do not prove its
present condition. Arrange inspection, installation and checks by
suitably competent people before clinical use.
Compare quotations with one
table
| Comparison point | Supplier A | Supplier B | Supplier C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exact model and cycle | |||
| Permitted loads | |||
| Usable tray space | |||
| Complete cycle time | |||
| Delivery and installation | |||
| Training | |||
| Record system | |||
| Service and examination costs | |||
| Warranty and exclusions | |||
| Engineer and loan cover | |||
| Total amount payable |
Warning signs
Pause the purchase if the seller cannot identify the exact model,
supply its instructions, explain the permitted loads or show a credible
support route.
Treat claims such as “fully compliant”, “recently serviced” or “ready
for use” as questions requiring documents and scope. A service visit
does not automatically cover validation, load suitability or
pressure-system examination.
Find or sell equipment
View second-hand
autoclaves and sterilisation equipment, read the marketplace safety guidance or list surplus podiatry
equipment.
Podiatry Supplies publishes third-party classified adverts. It does
not own, inspect, test or certify the advertised equipment, and the
buyer and seller deal directly with each other.
Comment update — 30 September 2026: The replies
below are retained as part of the original discussion. Some older
answers simplify wrapped-load suitability as a choice between Type N and
Type B and give storage advice without the full instrument, packaging
and local-procedure context. Type S cycles process the loads specified
by the manufacturer. Check the current instructions for the exact
steriliser, cycle, instruments and packaging, and obtain competent
advice for your workflow.
Hi Adrian, your article is just what I have been needed, thank you!
I have a question about the sterile wrapping of the instruments, how is it done with N or B type and how to seal the TST strips.
Hi, you do need to use a “B” type or vacuum autoclave for sterilizing wrapped instruments. When you say seal TST strips? are you referring as to where to put them?
How long should un-pouched instruments be stored for?
After sterilization un-pouched instruments can subject to contamination very quickly depending on how they are stored. They should be used as soon as practicably possible and stored in a sealed airtight container if to be transported. Ideally pouched 🙂
Hi I bought N type new autoclave and notice after sterilization my tools looks with a brown paches ,but they all are stainless steal!never was like that before…
Hi, This can happen for a few reasons. The most common is either oil deposits from the joints or poor quality metal. Mixing metals is also not recommended.
Hi adrian . I’m buying a type N autoclave. Can I use pouches anyway and will it affect the outcome?
Hi Joanna, I’m afraid you can’t use pouches in an “N” type autoclave as the steam won’t penetrate the bag. You require a “B” type autoclave for pouches or wrapped instruments.
I’m doing part time domiciliary FHP work, how do I transport tools after sterilising to avoid contamination? I was looking to purchase and N type prestige podiaclave.