Washers and Dryers

Laboratory Washers and Dryers for Scientific Facilities

Laboratory washers and dryers are mission-critical equipment providing automated cleaning, thermal disinfection, and drying for glassware, caging systems, surgical instruments, and specialized laboratory equipment. These validated washing systems ensure reproducible cleaning results, eliminate manual washing variability, protect valuable research materials from contamination, and free laboratory personnel to focus on higher-value scientific work. Research laboratories, vivarium facilities, pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, clinical laboratories, and medical device processing centers depend on professional-grade washers meeting regulatory standards for validated cleaning and thermal disinfection.

ARES Scientific offers comprehensive washing and drying solutions from industry-leading manufacturers Miele, Steelco, and Visron. From compact undercounter laboratory washers processing routine glassware to high-throughput tunnel washing systems handling thousands of items daily, we provide validated equipment solutions supporting research integrity, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency across diverse scientific applications.

Common Applications and Use Cases

• Laboratory Glassware Washing: Automated cleaning of beakers, flasks, pipettes, petri dishes, and specialty glassware used in chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, and analytical testing laboratories. Removes residues including proteins, nucleic acids, endotoxins, and chemical contaminants without manual scrubbing.
• Vivarium Cage and Rack Washing: High-volume cleaning and thermal disinfection of rodent cages, water bottles, feeders, enrichment devices, and IVC racks supporting animal research facilities. Eliminates cross-contamination risks and ensures animal health compliance with IACUC standards.
• Pharmaceutical cGMP Washing: Validated cleaning of manufacturing equipment, containers, closures, and production tools meeting FDA 21 CFR Part 211 requirements for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical operations. Documented cleaning validation supports product quality and regulatory audits.
• Medical Instrument Processing: Central sterile supply department (CSSD) washing and thermal disinfection of surgical instruments, anesthesia equipment, endoscopes, and reusable medical devices preparing items for terminal sterilization.
• Zebrafish and Aquatics Research: Specialized washing of tanks, lids, dividers, and aquaculture equipment used in zebrafish research facilities, preventing disease transmission while maintaining water quality parameters critical for model organism health.
• Pathology Laboratory Equipment: Cleaning of grossing station equipment, dissection instruments, specimen containers, and accessories used in anatomical pathology and veterinary pathology laboratories.
• Environmental Monitoring Equipment: Processing of air sampling devices, water quality testing apparatus, and environmental monitoring equipment requiring validated cleaning to prevent sample carryover and ensure accurate results.

Types of Laboratory Washers and Dryers

Glassware Washers

Laboratory glassware washers provide automated cleaning and thermal disinfection for research glassware, replacing time-consuming manual washing while delivering superior, reproducible results. Available in multiple configurations to match laboratory space constraints and throughput requirements:

Undercounter Laboratory Washers fit beneath standard laboratory countertops, offering space-efficient solutions for small to medium laboratories. These compact units process 64-128 pieces per cycle while maintaining full cleaning performance, ideal for core facilities, QC laboratories, and research groups with moderate glassware volumes. Models like the Miele PG 8583 and Steelco LAB 500 series provide pharmaceutical-grade cleaning in minimal footprint installations.

Freestanding Glassware Washers deliver higher capacity cleaning for busy research laboratories, accommodating 126-216 pieces per cycle with flexible loading configurations. These standalone units offer multiple wash rack positions, injection washing capability for narrow-neck glassware, and integrated HEPA-filtered drying systems ensuring spotless, ready-to-use glassware.

Large Capacity Laboratory Washers support high-throughput operations processing 300+ pieces per cycle, featuring automated sliding doors, multi-level injection washing, and pass-through configurations for clean/dirty separation. Essential for core facilities, contract research organizations, and pharmaceutical QC laboratories requiring maximum efficiency and validated cleaning documentation.

Vivarium Cage and Rack Washers

Cage, rack, and bottle washers provide specialized cleaning for vivarium equipment, processing rodent cages, water bottles, IVC racks, and animal care accessories. These robust systems feature high-pressure spray arms, large-capacity chambers, and thermal disinfection cycles validated to eliminate pathogens and prevent disease transmission between animal cohorts.

Compact cabinet washers like the Steelco AC 1200 and AC 1500 serve small to medium vivariums processing 180-320 mouse cages per hour, while large-capacity rack washers such as the AC 7500 and AC 8500 handle entire IVC racks, process carts, and bulk washing requirements for high-census research animal facilities. Automated cage wash systems from Visron provide complete cage handling automation, dramatically reducing manual labor while increasing throughput to 500-650 cages per hour.

For specialized aquatics research, zebrafish and aquatics washers accommodate unique tank geometries and provide gentle cleaning cycles preventing damage to delicate equipment while ensuring complete biofilm removal and sanitization.

Pharmaceutical and cGMP Washing Systems

cGMP washing systems meet stringent pharmaceutical manufacturing requirements, providing validated cleaning, IQ/OQ/PQ documentation, and 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data logging for regulatory compliance. These passthrough barrier washers prevent cross-contamination between clean and dirty areas while processing production equipment, component parts, utensils, and containers used in pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturing.

Steelco DS Optima PH and DS PH series washers offer compact footprints ideal for pharmaceutical clean rooms while maintaining full cGMP compliance with stainless steel construction, validated wash programs, and comprehensive batch documentation. Large-capacity LC PH series washers accommodate racks, bins, totes, and oversized production equipment requiring validated cleaning between manufacturing campaigns.

Complementing washing systems, cGMP sterilization and decontamination solutions include steam sterilizers, depyrogenation ovens, ethylene oxide sterilizers, and VH2O2 decontamination systems providing complete processing solutions for pharmaceutical facilities.

Medical Washer Disinfectors

Washer disinfectors serve central sterile supply departments and surgical instrument processing areas, providing automated cleaning and thermal disinfection preparing instruments for terminal sterilization. These validated systems meet ISO 15883 standards for washer-disinfector performance, ensuring consistent processing and instrument longevity.

Available in configurations from compact tabletop units processing 1 DIN tray to large multi-chamber tunnel systems handling 18-62 DIN trays per hour, medical washer disinfectors accommodate facilities ranging from outpatient surgery centers to large hospital CSSDs. Specialized trolley washer disinfectors process surgical carts, containers, and transport equipment, while tunnel washers provide maximum throughput for high-volume medical device processing operations.

Tunnel Washers

Tunnel washing systems represent the ultimate in high-throughput automated washing, processing hundreds to thousands of items per hour through modular washing, rinsing, and drying chambers. These continuous-feed systems eliminate loading/unloading downtime, providing uninterrupted production capacity for high-volume vivarium facilities, pharmaceutical operations, and medical device processing centers.

Steelco AC 3500 tunnel washers feature modular design allowing customization to facility requirements, with configurations processing vivarium cages, pharmaceutical containers, medical carts, and specialized laboratory equipment. Automated indexing systems move items through sequential chambers ensuring optimal cleaning without manual intervention, supported by comprehensive validation documentation and process monitoring. Learn more about tunnel washer applications in our guide: What is a Tunnel Washer Used For?

Drying Systems

Complete washing systems require effective drying to prepare items for immediate reuse or sterilization. Glassware dryers provide HEPA-filtered hot air drying eliminating water spots, preventing bacterial growth, and ensuring glassware readiness for critical applications. Undercounter dryer units integrate seamlessly with laboratory washers, while cabinet-style drying cabinets offer additional capacity for glassware storage under controlled, sterile conditions.

Many modern washers incorporate integrated drying systems using residual heat from wash cycles combined with HEPA-filtered air circulation, eliminating the need for separate drying equipment while reducing energy consumption and cycle times.

How to Choose the Right Laboratory Washer

• Throughput Requirements: Calculate daily washing volumes to determine required capacity. Small laboratories processing <50 pieces daily can utilize undercounter washers, while facilities processing 200+ items need freestanding or large-capacity systems. High-volume operations exceeding 500 items daily benefit from tunnel washers or automated systems.
• Item Types and Configurations: Match washer capabilities to specific items requiring cleaning. Narrow-neck glassware needs injection washing, while wide-mouth items require spray washing. Caging equipment demands high-pressure systems with specialized racks, and delicate instruments require gentle programs preventing damage. Review available wash racks, modules, and accessories ensuring compatibility with your specific items.
• Space Constraints: Evaluate installation location dimensions, door clearances, and utility access. Undercounter models maximize limited space, while freestanding units require floor space but offer greater flexibility. Passthrough configurations optimize workflow in barrier facilities separating clean/dirty areas, though they require wall penetrations and dual-sided room access.
• Utility Availability: Verify adequate water supply (typically 30-80 PSI), drainage capacity, electrical service (115V-480V depending on model size), and steam supply if required. DI water connections improve rinse quality for critical applications. Ensure facility infrastructure supports washer specifications before selection to avoid costly upgrades or performance compromises.
• Regulatory Requirements: Pharmaceutical operations require 21 CFR Part 11-compliant documentation and validated systems. Medical device processing demands ISO 15883 compliance. Research facilities need equipment meeting institutional biosafety standards. Select washers providing appropriate documentation, qualification support (IQ/OQ/PQ), and audit trail capabilities matching your regulatory environment.
• Cleaning Validation: Critical applications require validated cleaning demonstrating consistent contaminant removal. Pharmaceutical and medical processing mandate validated systems with documented performance. Research applications involving sensitive assays benefit from validation ensuring reproducible results. Choose manufacturers offering comprehensive validation protocols and technical support for qualification studies.
• Detergent Compatibility: Confirm washer compatibility with required cleaning chemistries. Pharmaceutical applications may require specific alkaline, enzymatic, or acid detergents for residue removal. Some washers accommodate only proprietary detergent formulations, while others accept third-party chemistries providing formulation flexibility and cost optimization. Review detergent options and compatibility.

Key Features to Compare

• Chamber Construction: Stainless steel chambers (304 or 316 grade) resist corrosion and withstand harsh detergents, ensuring decades of reliable service. Seamless welded construction eliminates crevices harboring contaminants, while smooth surfaces facilitate cleaning validation and visual inspection during audits.
• Washing Technology: High-performance pumps deliver consistent spray pressure ensuring thorough cleaning. Variable-speed pumps optimize water flow for different wash phases, reducing energy consumption while maintaining effectiveness. Multiple wash arms provide complete coverage from various angles, while rotating wash modules ensure uniform cleaning of complex geometries.
• Injection Washing Capability: Internal injection systems clean narrow-neck glassware, pipettes, burettes, and volumetric flasks by forcing cleaning solution through internal passages. Multiple injection levels accommodate varied glassware heights, with independent pressure control optimizing cleaning for different vessel types. Essential for chemistry and analytical laboratories processing narrow-opening glassware.
• Temperature Control: Precise temperature monitoring and control ensure effective thermal disinfection meeting A0 values required by ISO 15883 (≥600 for 80°C, ≥3000 for 90°C). Programmable heating ramps prevent thermal shock to delicate glassware, while multiple temperature holds optimize detergent chemistry effectiveness across wash, rinse, and thermal disinfection phases.
• Drying Performance: Integrated HEPA-filtered drying systems eliminate water spots and prevent environmental contamination during cooling. Adjustable drying temperatures and durations accommodate different materials from heat-sensitive plastics to robust stainless steel. Forced-air circulation accelerates drying while maintaining uniform temperature distribution throughout the chamber.
• Load Flexibility: Modular rack systems adapt to changing laboratory needs, accommodating varied glassware sizes, shapes, and quantities without dedicated custom racks. Mobile loading trolleys facilitate ergonomic loading outside the washer, while telescopic rails provide smooth rack insertion/removal. Multiple level positions maximize chamber utilization for different load configurations.
• Process Documentation: Data logging systems record critical process parameters (temperatures, times, pressures, detergent volumes) with tamper-evident electronic signatures meeting regulatory requirements. Ethernet connectivity enables integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), while USB ports allow local data export for batch record documentation.
• Water Recovery: Advanced systems capture final rinse water for reuse in pre-wash cycles, reducing consumption by 30-50% compared to single-pass designs. Heat recovery systems transfer thermal energy from drain water to incoming cold water, decreasing energy costs while supporting sustainability initiatives like LEED certification.
• Serviceability: Front-access service panels allow maintenance without removing the washer from installation, minimizing downtime. Modular pump and valve designs facilitate rapid component replacement, while diagnostic displays provide troubleshooting guidance reducing service call requirements. Manufacturer service networks and parts availability ensure long-term supportability.

Maintenance and Best Practices

• Daily Operational Checks: Inspect door gaskets for damage or debris preventing proper sealing. Verify wash arms rotate freely without obstruction. Clean filter screens removing accumulated debris that reduces spray pressure and cleaning effectiveness. Check detergent reservoir levels ensuring adequate supply for scheduled wash cycles. Run an empty cleaning cycle weekly to remove detergent buildup and sanitize the chamber.
• Proper Loading Techniques: Position items allowing complete water circulation and drainage. Avoid nesting glassware trapping air pockets and preventing cleaning solution contact. Load heavy items on lower racks for stability, placing delicate items on upper racks away from high-pressure spray zones. Orient openings downward facilitating drainage and preventing water pooling during drying.
• Detergent Selection and Dosing: Use manufacturer-recommended detergents formulated for automatic washers, avoiding hand-washing formulations that generate excessive foam. Verify proper detergent concentration using conductivity monitoring or volumetric dispensing systems. Periodically test cleaned glassware for residues using water break test or analytical methods confirming adequate rinsing. Read our comprehensive Guide to Laboratory Glassware Washer Detergents.
• Preventive Maintenance Schedule: Perform quarterly maintenance including pump inspection, valve testing, temperature sensor calibration, and water quality assessment. Annual professional service should include complete system verification, gasket replacement, and performance qualification testing documenting continued compliance with specifications. Follow 15 Pro Tips to Extend Lab Glassware Washer Lifespan.
• Water Quality Management: Monitor inlet water quality for hardness, pH, and contaminant levels affecting cleaning performance and equipment longevity. Install water softeners if hardness exceeds 3 grains per gallon, preventing scale buildup on heating elements and spray arms. For critical applications, implement deionized (DI) water final rinses eliminating ionic residues interfering with sensitive analyses.
• Performance Monitoring: Establish routine testing protocols verifying cleaning effectiveness using surrogate soils or actual residues relevant to your applications. Document results demonstrating continued performance between formal validations. Investigate any cleaning failures immediately, identifying root causes (inadequate detergent, insufficient temperature, mechanical issues) before resuming operations.
• Operator Training: Ensure all washer operators receive comprehensive training covering proper loading techniques, program selection, detergent handling, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures. Document training and assess competency through practical demonstrations. Refresher training annually reinforces proper practices and introduces new operators to equipment capabilities.

For detailed maintenance guidance, review our articles on Laboratory Glassware Washer Maintenance and How to Clean Laboratory Glassware.

Regulatory Compliance and Validation

Laboratory washers serving regulated industries require validation demonstrating consistent cleaning meeting defined acceptance criteria. Pharmaceutical operations must comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 211.67 requiring equipment cleaning validation preventing product contamination. Medical device processors follow ISO 15883 standards specifying washer-disinfector performance requirements and validation protocols.

Installation Qualification (IQ) documents proper equipment installation matching manufacturer specifications and site requirements. Operational Qualification (OQ) verifies washer operates within specified parameters across the operating range. Performance Qualification (PQ) demonstrates consistent cleaning of actual items using worst-case challenge conditions.

Validation protocols should address equipment design (IQ), operating parameters (OQ), and cleaning effectiveness (PQ) using analytical methods appropriate to contaminants requiring removal. Common approaches include visual inspection, rinse sampling, swab testing, total organic carbon (TOC) analysis, and bioburden testing depending on application requirements.

For facilities pursuing LEED certification or other sustainability initiatives, document water and energy consumption supporting green building credits. Modern washers with heat recovery and water reuse systems contribute significantly to reduced environmental impact while maintaining validated cleaning performance.

Selecting Detergents and Wash Chemicals

Laboratory detergents are specifically formulated for automated washing systems, providing optimal cleaning across diverse contaminant types while remaining compatible with equipment materials and rinsing completely without residues. Unlike manual dishwashing soaps, laboratory detergents are low-foaming, concentrated formulations designed for machine dispensing and high-temperature applications.

Alkaline detergents effectively remove proteins, fats, and organic residues commonly encountered in biological research. Acidic detergents dissolve mineral deposits, salts, and metallic oxides prevalent in chemistry and analytical laboratories. Enzymatic formulations provide gentle cleaning for delicate instruments and heat-sensitive materials. Neutral detergents offer versatile cleaning for general laboratory glassware without affecting pH-sensitive residues.

Miele ProCare Lab detergents are optimized for Miele glassware washers, offering formulations including alkaline cleaner (ProCare Lab 10), acidic cleaner (ProCare Lab 20), neutralizer (ProCare Lab 30), and glassware care agent (ProCare Lab 40). Steelco washers accommodate various detergent chemistries with automated dispensing ensuring consistent, reproducible dosing across all wash cycles.

Detergent selection should consider contaminant types, material compatibility, environmental impact, and regulatory requirements. Pharmaceutical applications may require low-residue formulations preventing product contamination, while animal care facilities prioritize disinfection efficacy and odor control. Read our comprehensive guide: Laboratory Glassware Washer Detergents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a laboratory washer and a household dishwasher?

Laboratory washers are purpose-built for scientific applications, featuring stainless steel construction resisting harsh chemicals and high temperatures, precise temperature control enabling validated thermal disinfection, injection washing capability for narrow-neck glassware, and comprehensive data logging for regulatory compliance. They accommodate specialized loading systems (wash racks, modules, carriers) optimized for laboratory items rather than household dishes. Laboratory washers also provide validated cleaning programs with reproducible results essential for research integrity and regulatory requirements, whereas household dishwashers prioritize convenience over validation and documentation. For more context, see our article comparing laboratory vs. consumer equipment.

How do I select the right size laboratory washer?

Calculate your peak daily washing volume, then select capacity providing adequate throughput without continuous operation. As a general guideline: laboratories processing 300 pieces should consider tunnel washers or multiple units. Factor in turnaround time requirements—critical items needed immediately may require larger capacity ensuring availability when needed. Also consider future growth, purchasing slightly larger capacity than current needs to accommodate expanding research programs. Read our detailed guide: How to Select Your Best Forever Home Laboratory Glassware Washer.

Can laboratory washers clean plastic items as well as glassware?

Yes, most laboratory washers accommodate plastic items including polypropylene bottles, polycarbonate cages, acrylic containers, and PETG laboratory ware. However, temperature selection is critical—plastics require lower wash and dry temperatures (typically 65-75°C) compared to glassware (85-93°C) to prevent warping, melting, or dimensional changes. Modern washers offer programmable cycles with temperature control accommodating mixed loads or dedicated programs for plastic-only washing. Some delicate plastics may require special racks or positioning away from high-pressure spray zones. Always verify material compatibility with specific wash programs before processing valuable or critical items.

What maintenance costs should I expect for a laboratory washer?

Typical annual maintenance costs include detergent and rinse aid ($500-$2,000 depending on throughput and detergent type), preventive maintenance service contracts ($1,500-$4,000 annually for professional service), replacement parts like gaskets, filters, and spray arms ($200-$800), water treatment if required ($500-$1,500), and utilities including water, electricity, and steam ($1,000-$5,000 based on usage intensity and local rates). Total annual operating costs typically range from $3,700-$13,300 depending on equipment size and utilization. Proper maintenance significantly extends equipment lifespan (15-20+ years) and prevents costly unplanned downtime. Energy-efficient models with heat recovery and water reuse systems reduce utility costs by 30-50% compared to conventional designs.

How do I validate cleaning for pharmaceutical or GMP applications?

Cleaning validation follows a structured protocol demonstrating consistent contaminant removal: First, conduct Installation Qualification (IQ) verifying proper installation and functionality. Next, perform Operational Qualification (OQ) confirming the washer operates within specified parameters (temperatures, pressures, times, detergent concentrations) across the operating range. Then execute Performance Qualification (PQ) using worst-case challenge conditions—typically the hardest-to-clean item with the most difficult-to-remove contaminant at maximum loading. Analyze cleaned items using appropriate methods: visual inspection, rinse sampling, swab testing, total organic carbon (TOC) analysis, or specific residue testing. Perform at least three consecutive successful validation runs meeting predefined acceptance criteria. Document all testing comprehensively, including protocols, results, deviations, and corrective actions. Establish routine monitoring and periodic revalidation (typically annually or after significant changes) maintaining validated status. Our cGMP washing systems include validation support and comprehensive documentation packages.

Can one washer handle both glassware and vivarium caging?

While technically possible with appropriate wash racks and programs, most facilities maintain dedicated washers for glassware and caging due to contamination concerns, different cleaning requirements, and throughput considerations. Vivarium caging accumulates organic soils, bedding debris, and biological contaminants requiring aggressive high-temperature, high-pressure washing potentially damaging delicate glassware. Cross-contamination risks exist when processing animal-contact items and sensitive analytical glassware in the same equipment. Additionally, vivarium operations typically demand higher throughput than glassware washing, justifying dedicated equipment optimization. Facilities with limited space or budget constraints can implement strict segregation protocols, dedicated wash racks, and validation demonstrating no cross-contamination, though most organizations find dedicated equipment more practical and cost-effective long-term.

What should I do if my washer isn't cleaning properly?

Systematic troubleshooting identifies root causes: First, check detergent supply and proper dispensing—insufficient detergent is the most common cleaning failure cause. Verify wash temperatures reaching specified levels using calibrated thermometers; heating element failure prevents adequate cleaning. Inspect wash arms for clogs blocking spray nozzles; even partial blockage significantly reduces cleaning effectiveness. Examine water supply pressure ensuring adequate flow; low pressure reduces spray impact and circulation. Review loading patterns—overcrowding, improper orientation, or nesting prevents water circulation and complete cleaning. Test water quality for hardness or contaminants interfering with detergent chemistry. Verify wash program selection matches soil type and item configuration. If problems persist after checking these factors, contact manufacturer service for professional diagnostics—sensor failures, pump wear, or valve malfunctions require technical intervention. Maintain detailed cleaning records facilitating troubleshooting and identifying patterns preceding failures. See our comprehensive Laboratory Glassware Washer Maintenance Guide.

Related Categories and Equipment

• Sterilizers and Autoclaves - Steam sterilizers and dry heat sterilizers for terminal sterilization after washing
• Decontamination Systems - Room decontamination and surface decontamination for comprehensive facility cleaning
• Tables, Storage and Carts - Material handling carts for transporting items to/from washing areas
• Cage Change and Transfer Stations - Ergonomic workstations complementing vivarium washing operations
• Benchtop Instruments - Equipment requiring regular cleaning including centrifuges, shakers, and water baths
• Cold Storage - Laboratory refrigerators and freezers requiring periodic cleaning and decontamination
• Clean Air and Containment - Biological safety cabinets used with cleaned glassware for sterile procedures

Request a Quote for Laboratory Washers and Dryers

Selecting the optimal laboratory washer ensures efficient operations, regulatory compliance, and cost-effective cleaning supporting your research, manufacturing, or clinical objectives. ARES Scientific's washing equipment specialists help scientific facilities evaluate throughput requirements, utility constraints, regulatory compliance needs, and budget parameters to specify appropriate washer configurations meeting exact operational requirements.

Our comprehensive support includes site assessments documenting space availability and utility capacity, equipment demonstrations at our application laboratories, installation coordination including rigging and utility connections, validation protocol development and execution support, operator training programs, and ongoing service ensuring maximum equipment uptime throughout the 15-20 year operational lifespan.

We represent industry-leading manufacturers Miele, Steelco, and Visron, offering proven equipment solutions with comprehensive factory support, parts availability, and technical service networks ensuring long-term reliability.

Contact ARES Scientific today for customized laboratory washer recommendations: Call (720) 283-0177 or email info@aresscientific.com. Our equipment specialists will help you select the ideal washing solution for your application, ensuring validated cleaning performance, operational efficiency, and compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.

Ready to upgrade your laboratory washing capabilities? Request your quote now and discover why research facilities, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and medical device processors nationwide trust ARES Scientific for validated washing equipment solutions that deliver reproducible results, operational reliability, and long-term value.

Additional Resources

• How to Select the Best Features for a Laboratory Glassware Washer
• 15 Pro Tips to Extend Lab Glassware Washer Lifespan
• The Future of Zebrafish Research: Automated Tank Cleaning
• Automation in Vivariums: Enhancing Efficiency and Welfare