Steam Sterilization vs Ethylene Oxide
We’ve been asked: “If both of these sterilization methods work well, why do we only use steam sterilization in the office?”
So in this article, we will show you some of the stats to give you an idea of the differences between each method of sterilization…And hopefully this comprehensive look into the details of each method will show you why we opt to use one and not the other. But if you still have questions, give us a call using our Free Tech Support line at 704-966-1650 Option 3.
What We Will Cover
- Mechanisms – How does each method of sterilization work?
- Safety – How safe is each method of sterilization to use in my practice?
- Use Cases – What kind of materials can be used with each sterilization method
- …and More – Temperature, Cycle Times and more…
Mechanisms
- Steam Sterilization – Physical: High-temperature steam, pressure.
- Ethylene Oxide – Chemical: Alkylating gas (EtO)
Temperature
- Steam Sterilization – High (121°C – 132°C)
- Ethylene Oxide – Low (30°C – 60°C)
Cycle Times
- Steam Sterilization – Short (Approx. 15-60 minutes)
- Ethylene Oxide – Very Long (12-24+ hours, including aeration)
Material Compatibility
- Steam Sterilization – Limited: Only for heat & moisture-stable items.
- Ethylene Oxide – Excellent: Ideal for plastics, electronics, sensitive items.
Primary Use Cases
- Steam Sterilization – Non-toxic (uses water).
- Ethylene Oxide – Highly Toxic (carcinogenic, flammable gas).
Residue Risk
- Steam Sterilization – None
- Ethylene Oxide – Potential for toxic residue if not aerated properly.
Cost
- Steam Sterilization – $$
- Ethylene Oxide – $$$$
Why Steam is Standard
Hopefully now you understand why steam sterilization is used in the office as opposed to ethylene oxide. It’s not just cause of the safety risks and operation costs. The tools that need to be continually sterilized use steam sterilization... Rendering ethylene oxide effectively non-applicable in the office setting.
If you have any questions about sterilization or anything else, give us a call at 704-966-1650 Option 3 for our Free Tech Support Line. You can also use the links below to view our various programs accessible to anyone, anytime, absolutely FREE.
As always if you have any questions about this process or anything else please feel free to contact us and take advantage of our “FREE TECH SUPPORT.”
We also offer FREE VIRTUAL TECH SUPPORT to “See and Talk” with a “Real Time Live Technician” for any problems you may be in need of help with.
You can also use our “FREE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM”. Take the guesswork and worrying about what unit is due for maintenance and which maintenance cycle it is time for. We will keep track of all your autoclaves and let you know when it’s time for anything.