Tattooing is not just an art—it’s a responsibility. Every time an artist picks up a machine, they are dealing with skin, blood, and the potential for infection. That’s why cleaning tattoo equipment is a critical part of the process. Yet, even seasoned artists can make mistakes when it comes to maintaining cleanliness and ensuring proper sterilization tattoo practices. These errors not only risk client safety but also put the artist’s reputation on the line.
In this blog, we’ll look at the most common mistakes artists make when cleaning their tools and how to prevent them. Whether you’re new to the craft or have years of experience, following proper hygiene protocols is non-negotiable.
1. Using the Wrong Tattoo Cleaning Supplies
One of the most basic but widespread mistakes is relying on inappropriate or ineffective cleaning agents. Not all cleaning products are suitable for cleaning tattoo machines or other equipment. Household disinfectants, for example, may not be strong enough to kill bloodborne pathogens and can even damage delicate machine parts.
Tattoo cleaning supplies should be medical-grade and approved for use in environments where blood contamination is possible. This includes enzymatic cleaners, which break down organic material, and hospital-grade disinfectants that kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Failing to use proper tattoo sterilization supplies means contaminants can remain on equipment, increasing the risk of infection or cross-contamination between clients.
2. Skipping the Pre-Cleaning Step
Before you can even think about using a tattoo gun cleaner or putting tools in an autoclave, there’s a crucial first step: pre-cleaning. This involves manually removing ink, blood, and skin residue from your tools.
Skipping this step is like putting dirty dishes straight into the dishwasher—it’s ineffective and unsafe. Pre-cleaning ensures that no debris interferes with the sterilization process. When left behind, dried fluids can protect bacteria from being destroyed in the sterilizer.
Whether it’s wiping down the machine or soaking tubes in an enzymatic solution, proper pre-cleaning is the foundation of thorough sterilization.
3. Inadequate Tattoo Machine Sterilization
Tattoo machine sterilization is not optional. Unfortunately, some artists either rush the process or use outdated methods. For example, wiping equipment with alcohol wipes is not an adequate substitute for proper sterilization. Even boiling water or using UV light boxes falls short.
The gold standard for sterilizing equipment for tattoo use is the autoclave. Autoclaves use high-pressure steam to kill all microorganisms, including resistant spores. However, simply owning an autoclave isn’t enough. Artists must use biological indicators or spore tests regularly to confirm the device is working correctly.
If your tattoo machine can’t be autoclaved (like rotary machines with electronic components), then you need to disassemble it and clean each part thoroughly with a tattoo gun cleaner, followed by a high-level disinfectant or cold sterilant that complies with health regulations.
4. Not Wearing Protective Gear While Cleaning
Another mistake is cleaning tattoo equipment without wearing gloves, goggles, or protective clothing. Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted through broken skin or mucous membranes. Wearing proper gear is not just about personal safety—it’s part of maintaining a sterile workspace.
Always wear disposable gloves while handling used needles, tubes, or cleaning tattoo machine parts. If there’s a risk of splashing, wear eye protection. This simple precaution can prevent serious infections like hepatitis or HIV.
5. Overlooking Single-Use Items
While the focus here is on cleaning, it’s worth noting that not all equipment is meant to be cleaned and reused. Single-use items like needles, ink caps, and gloves should be disposed of immediately after use. Trying to reuse these materials, even with good intentions, is dangerous and unethical.
Trying to clean and reuse single-use items also contaminates tattoo sterilization supplies, making them less effective when needed for reusable parts. It’s always safer and more efficient to follow manufacturer guidelines for each tool.
6. Using Harsh Chemicals on Machines
Many tattoo machines have small, delicate parts that can be damaged by overly harsh cleaning agents. Artists sometimes reach for industrial solvents or corrosive cleaners in an attempt to sanitize their tools quickly. This can lead to deterioration of rubber grommets, seals, and wiring insulation.
When learning how to clean a tattoo gun, it’s important to read the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some parts may require gentle soap and water followed by drying and surface disinfectants, while others may benefit from an ultrasonic cleaner combined with appropriate tattoo sterilization supplies.
7. Not Cleaning the Work Environment Along With the Tools
Cleaning tattoo machine parts is essential, but so is maintaining a sanitary work environment. Cross-contamination can easily happen if the workspace is not disinfected before and after each client. Touching a contaminated surface and then touching your machine negates all the effort you put into cleaning.
Always clean and disinfect surfaces like armrests, trays, power supplies, and clip cords. Use disposable barriers whenever possible, and replace them after every session.
8. Failing to Disassemble Before Cleaning
Many artists clean their tattoo machines without fully disassembling them. This shortcut often leads to buildup in joints, crevices, and internal areas. Proper cleaning means taking apart your machine—whether it’s coil or rotary—so each component gets the attention it needs.
Following the right procedure for how to clean tattoo machine components helps prolong the life of the device and ensures all parts are safe for reuse.
9. Inconsistent Cleaning Routines
Perhaps the biggest mistake is inconsistency. Cleaning protocols should not be something you do “when there’s time.” A strict, regular routine ensures nothing gets overlooked. Machines should be cleaned after every single session, even if the client was only in for a touch-up.
Consistency in tattoo machine sterilization not only keeps clients safe but also ensures compliance with local health codes and inspections.
10. Improper Storage After Cleaning
Once tools are cleaned and sterilized, proper storage is the final step. Storing clean tools in a contaminated area can undo all your hard work. Sterile equipment should be stored in sealed, sterilized pouches until use. Open shelving, especially near high-traffic areas, is not acceptable.
Make sure tattoo cleaning supplies like autoclave bags and sterile trays are used correctly to preserve the sterility of cleaned equipment.
Final Thoughts
Cleanliness is more than a habit—it’s a discipline. Avoiding these common mistakes in cleaning and sterilizing tattoo equipment is essential for every artist who values safety, professionalism, and longevity in their career. From using the right tattoo gun cleaner to following rigorous routines for cleaning tattoo equipment, every detail matters.
Tattooing is an intimate act that requires precision and care not just in the artwork but in the hygiene that supports it. By maintaining strict standards in tattoo machine sterilization and using quality tattoo sterilization supplies, artists protect their clients, their craft, and themselves.