Sterilization Boxes and Trays: Perforated vs Solid, Lids, Locks and Sizes
Instrument guides
Sterilization Boxes and Trays: Perforated vs Solid, Lids, Locks and Sizes
How perforated and solid sterilization boxes and trays differ, when a lid or lock helps, what a silicone mat does, and the 13 box and 5 tray sizes we make.
Sterilization containers hold instruments together through cleaning, sterilization and storage. The choice that matters most is perforated or solid. In steam sterilization the steam has to reach every surface of every instrument, and perforated boxes and trays let it in through their walls and base. Solid boxes and trays suit storage, transport and holding a set together. Add a lid to protect the contents, a locking system to keep the lid shut, and a silicone mat to stop instruments knocking together.
Why does perforation matter?
The CDC guidance on sterilizing practices sets out the principle: packaging must let the sterilant penetrate and still act as a barrier to microorganisms, and items must be arranged so all surfaces are directly exposed, with free circulation of steam around each item. It adds that hinged instruments should be opened and that perforated trays are placed parallel to the shelf while nonperforated containers are placed on their edge. A perforated box or tray makes that circulation possible. Always follow your sterilizer maker's instructions and your facility's validated cycle and packaging.
Which boxes and trays do we make?
| Container | Walls | Lid and lock | Sizes (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sterilization box, perforated | Perforated | Lid | 200 x 100 x 50, 250 x 125 x 50, 250 x 150 x 50, 300 x 150 x 75, 300 x 200 x 50, 300 x 250 x 100, 405 x 200 x 75, 405 x 200 x 100, 405 x 300 x 100, 425 x 100 x 75, 455 x 300 x 100, 505 x 200 x 125, 505 x 265 x 100 |
| Perforated box with locking system | Perforated | Lid with lock | Same 13 sizes |
| Sterilization box, solid | Solid | Lid | Same 13 sizes |
| Solid box with locking system | Solid | Lid with lock | Same 13 sizes |
| Tray, perforated | Perforated | Open | 200 x 150 x 38, 200 x 250 x 50, 300 x 200 x 50, 300 x 250 x 50, 400 x 300 x 50 |
| Tray, perforated, with lid | Perforated | Lid | Same 5 sizes |
| Tray, solid | Solid | Open | Same 5 sizes |
| Tray, solid, with lid | Solid | Lid | Same 5 sizes |
Sizes are length x width x height in millimetres. Each product page also gives them in inches.
What about mats, kidney trays and clips?
| Item | Sizes | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone mat for sterilization boxes | To fit each box size, 200 x 100 to 505 x 265 mm | Cushions instruments and stops them moving |
| Kidney tray, with lid | Sizes 4 to 12, as listed on the product page | Holding instruments, dressings or fluids |
| Mayo clip | 14 cm | Holding a drape or tubing to a Mayo stand |
How do you choose a size?
- Fit the longest instrument. The box must take your longest instrument lying flat, with hinged instruments open.
- Do not overfill. Leave room for steam to circulate between instruments. Two boxes are better than one crowded one.
- Fit the sterilizer. Check the chamber and shelf size of your autoclave before choosing the larger boxes.
- Match the set. For a complete procedure set, see our instrument sets guide and choose a box that holds the whole set.
- Protect fine instruments. Add a silicone mat for microsurgical and ophthalmic instruments, such as our microvascular clamps.
How should the boxes themselves be cleaned?
Wash boxes, trays and mats after every use, and check perforations for blockages and lids and locks for a secure close. Dry fully before storage, because trapped water causes stains. Never leave instruments in saline, because it causes corrosion. Our instrument care guide gives the full routine, and the CDC guidance on cleaning instruments before sterilization explains why cleaning comes before the autoclave.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use a perforated or a solid sterilization box?
For steam sterilization, a perforated box lets steam reach the instruments. Solid boxes suit storage and transport. Follow your sterilizer maker's instructions and your facility's validated packaging.
What is the silicone mat for?
It sits in the box, cushions instruments and stops them sliding and knocking together, which protects fine tips.
Which size box do I need?
One that takes your longest instrument lying flat, with hinged instruments open and room for steam to circulate. Our boxes run from 200 x 100 x 50 mm to 505 x 265 x 100 mm.
Can the boxes be autoclaved?
Yes. They are stainless steel and made for repeated autoclave use.
Related instrument guides
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