Easy Ways of Cleaning Your Stethoscope Properly

How do I clean my Littmann stethoscope?

3M knows that the cleaning of hands, surfaces, and stethoscopes in hospitals is done with the use of disinfectant gel. Some of these products can damage the rubber parts of stethoscopes as well as some plastics. Our tests have shown that even the 3M Littmann diaphragms can be damaged.

We discussed the matter with some of the manufacturers of the most widely used products of this kind and they confirmed to us that they have not tested their products on such surfaces or medical instruments, and that they should not be used for such purpose.

For the proper cleaning – disinfection of the stethoscope, only the following are suggested:

To clean your 3M™ Littmann® stethoscope, use 70% isopropyl alcohol solution on a cloth or pre-packaged wipe, and wipe every surface of the stethoscope that comes in contact with patients, between each assessment.

Do not use hand sanitizer or wipes with multiple ingredients, as they may include other agents that could damage parts of the stethoscope.

Practical advice:

• Do not immerse your stethoscope in any liquid, and do not undergo any sterilization procedure.
• Keep your stethoscope away from hot spots, oils, solvents, and extreme cold.
• Adjustable baffles can be removed from the instrument and cleaned with alcohol or soapy water.
• Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembly.
• The ear pieces can be removed for thorough cleaning. For safety, make sure that the ends are firmly attached to the pipe during repositioning.

If you would like to use other cleaners, you should first consult the manufacturer for its suitability to clean stethoscopes. Please note that the use of cleaning products not recommended by 3M can void your stethoscope’s warranty.

For suitable cleaning wipes, you can use the Mikrozid Sensitive Wipes.