Why Every Piercing Studio Needs an Autoclave

If you run or are planning to open a piercing studio, one piece of equipment you can’t do without is an autoclave. A piercing autoclave ensures all your tools and equipment are completely sterile before coming into contact with a client’s skin. It’s not just about good hygiene — it’s a legal and professional requirement that protects both your reputation and your customers’ health.

At Excel Healthcare, we supply a range of autoclaves suitable for piercing studios, offering CE-certified, easy-to-use machines trusted by professionals across the UK.

What Is an Autoclave and Why Do Piercing Studios Need One?

An autoclave is a steam sterilisation device that eliminates bacteria, viruses, and spores from metal tools and reusable instruments. It works by using high-pressure steam at precise temperatures to destroy any microorganisms that simple disinfectants can’t reach.

For piercers, this means:

• Clean, sterilised forceps, clamps, and needles

• Reduced risk of infection and cross-contamination

• Compliance with local authority licensing requirements

Most UK councils require licensed piercing studios to use a Class B autoclave to meet hygiene standards. This is the same standard used in dental and medical environments, ensuring complete sterilisation even for hollow or wrapped instruments.

For official guidance, you can refer to the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health Tattooing and Body Piercing Toolkit (PDF), which outlines best practices for infection prevention in the piercing and tattoo industry.

What to Look for in a Piercing Autoclave

Choosing the right autoclave for piercing depends on your studio size, workload, and the types of tools you use. Here’s what to prioritise:

✅ Class B Autoclave (Recommended)

A Class B model uses a vacuum cycle to remove air before sterilisation begins, allowing steam to reach inside hollow instruments such as needles and cannulas. This ensures complete sterilisation every time.

Recommended models:

• Enigma 8 Litre B Autoclave → – Compact, user-friendly and perfect for small studios

• Elite Autoclaves → – Larger capacities and faster cycles for busy piercing shops

• Eclipse Autoclaves → – Reliable and consistent performance for everyday professional use

✅ Fast Cycle Times

Look for a machine that can complete sterilisation quickly. Piercing studios often see back-to-back clients, so a fast turnaround means you can work efficiently without compromising safety.

✅ Easy Operation

Most modern piercing autoclaves are fully automatic with pre-programmed sterilisation cycles. The Enigma 8 Litre B includes one-touch controls and a clear LCD screen, making it ideal even for first-time users.

✅ Drying Function

Once sterilisation is complete, a built-in drying cycle helps keep instruments sterile until you’re ready to use them again — preventing contamination during storage.

✅ Record Keeping

For council inspections or health authority visits, it’s essential to keep sterilisation logs. Many Excel autoclaves, including the Enigma and Eclipse ranges, include an external printer to document each cycle for compliance and traceability.

How Often Should You Use an Autoclave?

Every reusable instrument that comes into contact with skin or blood must be autoclaved after each use. Even if an item looks clean, harmful microorganisms can remain. Disposable items like needles should still be opened from sterile packaging in front of each client, but clamps, forceps and tools must always be sterilised between clients.

You should also:

• Perform a daily vacuum or Bowie-Dick test

• Keep printed sterilisation records

• Have your autoclave serviced and validated annually

Legal and Safety Requirements for Piercing Studios

Under UK health and safety law, piercing studios must demonstrate robust infection control procedures. The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 gives councils the power to license body piercing premises, often requiring a functioning autoclave as part of the application.

Using an autoclave that meets BS EN 13060 (small steam sterilisers) and CE certification helps ensure compliance and client safety.

Excel Healthcare – Trusted Supplier of Piercing Autoclaves

Excel Healthcare has been supplying autoclaves to professional studios, salons and clinics for over 40 years. We provide:

• CE-certified Class B autoclaves for piercing studios

• Compact and large models to suit any workspace

• UK-based support and servicing

• Refurbished options for cost-effective setups

Explore our full autoclave range or contact us for expert advice on which model best suits your piercing business.

FAQs About Piercing Autoclaves

Do I legally need an autoclave in my piercing studio?
Yes. Most UK councils require an approved autoclave as part of the hygiene and licensing process for piercing and tattoo studios.

Can I use chemical disinfectants instead of an autoclave?
No. Only a steam steriliser (Class B autoclave) guarantees complete sterilisation of reusable tools.

What size autoclave should I choose?
For most studios, an 8L or 12L unit like the Enigma 8 Litre B is perfect. Larger studios may prefer a 17L or 22L model from the Elite range.

How often should I service my autoclave?
At least once a year, or more frequently depending on local council guidance. Always keep your service and validation certificates up to date.

Final Thoughts

An autoclave for piercing isn’t just equipment — it’s a critical part of your studio’s professional standards and legal compliance. Investing in a high-quality, CE-approved model helps ensure client safety, maintain council approval, and protect your reputation.

Browse autoclaves suitable for piercing → or contact Excel Healthcare for friendly, expert guidance.