How can you determine optimal storage conditions for samples?

1 Sample type

The first step to determine optimal storage conditions for samples is to identify their type and characteristics. Different types of samples may require different levels of temperature, humidity, light, oxygen, and pH to preserve their properties and prevent degradation, contamination, or loss. For example, biological samples such as blood, urine, saliva, or tissue may need to be stored in cold or frozen conditions, while chemical samples such as solvents, reagents, or standards may need to be stored in dark or inert conditions. You should also check the labels and safety data sheets of your samples for any specific storage requirements or precautions.

2 Sample purpose

The second step to determine optimal storage conditions for samples is to define their purpose and use. Depending on the type of analysis, testing, or experiment you are planning to perform with your samples, you may need to store them in different ways to ensure their validity and reliability. For example, if you are going to use your samples for molecular or genetic studies, you may need to store them in ultra-low temperatures or liquid nitrogen to prevent DNA degradation or mutation. If you are going to use your samples for microbiological or immunological studies, you may need to store them in sterile or aseptic conditions to prevent bacterial or fungal growth or infection.

3 Sample duration

The third step to determine optimal storage conditions for samples is to estimate their duration and frequency of use. Depending on how long and how often you are going to store and access your samples, you may need to adjust their storage conditions to optimize their quality and availability. For example, if you are going to store your samples for a short period of time or use them frequently, you may want to store them in convenient and accessible locations such as refrigerators or freezers. If you are going to store your samples for a long period of time or use them rarely, you may want to store them in secure and controlled locations such as biobanks or cryogenic facilities.

4 Sample inventory

The fourth step to determine optimal storage conditions for samples is to create and maintain a sample inventory system. A sample inventory system is a tool that helps you track and manage your samples in the laboratory. It can help you record and monitor information such as sample name, number, type, location, date, condition, and status. It can also help you organize and label your samples according to their storage requirements and categories. A sample inventory system can be a manual or digital system, such as a logbook, a spreadsheet, a database, or a software. You should choose a sample inventory system that suits your needs and preferences.

5 Sample quality

The fifth step to determine optimal storage conditions for samples is to evaluate and verify their quality periodically. Even if you store your samples according to their optimal conditions, you may still encounter some issues or challenges that can compromise their quality and integrity. For example, you may face problems such as power outages, equipment failures, human errors, or natural disasters that can affect your storage facilities or devices. You may also experience changes or variations in your sample properties or performance over time or due to environmental factors. You should therefore check and test your samples regularly to ensure that they meet your standards and expectations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?