Reusable laboratory spatulas and spoons: how can powders and pastes be sampled and transferred cleanly?

Essential on the bench, reusable spatulas and spoons deliver clean sampling and transfer of powders, granules and pastes, from the fume cupboard to the balance. Made from 304/316L stainless steel, PTFE or engineering polymers, they combine chemical inertness, durability and easy cleaning. One-piece and/or electropolished designs minimise retention areas for impeccable hygiene. Autoclavable 121–134 ; °C (material-dependent), they support your GLP/GMP while cutting single-use waste. A choice of lengths and tip shapes ensures access to deep bottles and controlled dosing, every time.

What are the different types of reusable laboratory spatulas and spoons?

Three families cover most day-to-day needs. The reusable spoon provides a calibrated bowl (approx. 0.5 to 25 mL) for clean, accurate dosing and transfer of powders onto the balance or into a beaker. The reusable spatula features a flat blade (with rounded or bevelled edges) ideal for sampling, scraping a bottle, homogenising a paste or spreading a gel. The reusable spoon–spatula combines both ends in one tool for maximum versatility in routine work.

As for materials, 316L stainless steel offers corrosion resistance, a smooth surface and compatibility with steam sterilisation. PTFE is a great choice for sticky or corrosive substances thanks to its very low coefficient of friction and high chemical inertness (autoclavable depending on manufacturer). High-performance polymers (e.g. PEEK) are useful where metal is not permitted. Mirror-polished finishes simplify cleaning and reduce powder adhesion.

In which areas are reusable spatulas and laboratory spoons used?

• Life sciences ; : media preparation, weighing on an analytical balance, aliquoting in a safety cabinet.
• Pharmaceutical ; : powder sampling, transferring excipients, work in GMP-compliant controlled areas.
• Food & Beverage ; : ingredient sampling, hygiene checks, small-scale sensory testing.
• Cosmetics ; : formulation and bench testing of creams/pastes, sampling in R&D and QC.
• Chemistry ; : handling reagents, scraping vessels, dispensing hygroscopic solids.
• Environment ; : soil/sediment sampling in the laboratory, extract preparation.

Common goal ; : a clean transfer, reproducible and safe, with autoclavable tools that are easy to decontaminate and durable, minimising waste while meeting internal GLP/ISO ; 17025 requirements.

The different types of spatulas and laboratory spoons available

Frequently asked questions about reusable lab spatulas and spoons

How do I choose the right material?
Stainless steel 304/316L is versatile and can be sterilised. PTFE is ideal for sticky/corrosive products. PEEK is suitable when metal must be avoided. Check chemical compatibility.

What handle length should I go for?
150–200 mm for weighing and bench work; 250–300 mm for deep bottles/carboys. Rule of thumb: reach the bottom without touching your hand or scraping the wall.

How to clean and sterilise properly?
Favour a one-piece design, wash with a neutral detergent, use soft brushes, rinse with DI water. Stainless steel and PEEK: autoclave 121–134 °C; PTFE: as per the manufacturer. Avoid scratches.

How to limit cross-contamination?
Dedicate tools by product matrix, mirror-polished surfaces, validated cleaning cycles. Dry before dipping back into a powder. Store in a clean bag or on a protected rack.

What about micro-weighing?
Choose light micro-spatulas with a fine tip. Minimise static, rest the spatula between additions, close the balance doors, work free from draughts.

Reusable or disposable: which to choose?
Reusable reduces waste and long-term costs, ideal for routine work and QC. Disposable is useful in sterile environments or for trace-level analysis when cleaning is critical.