General Principles

Proper storage is critical to maintaining reagent integrity. The three main enemies are temperature, light, and moisture.

Storage Guidelines

  • Temperature: Store at the manufacturer-recommended temperature, typically 15–30°C or refrigerated.
  • Light: Keep light-sensitive reagents in amber vials away from direct light.
  • Moisture: Store hygroscopic reagents in a desiccator or sealed container.

Best Practices

Label everything with opening dates, use a first-in-first-out system, and regularly audit your inventory for expired items.