What is the proper time cycle?
For most steam sterilizers running at 250 degrees Fahrenheit (121 degrees Celsius), a 20-minute cycle is adequate. That 20-minute cycle should begin at the time the sterilizer reaches operating temperature and pressure. It is important to allow adequate warm-up time (normally, 5-10 minutes) before starting the timing of the cycle. There are some steam sterilizers, commonly referred to as “rapid-cycle” or “flash” sterilizers, which may have a shorter cycle time (3.5 to 8 minute cycle).
