Slide Staining Jars, Dishes & Racks
Slide Staining Jars, Dishes & Racks
Wheaton® Staining Dishes
We offer a variety of staining dishes and Coplin jars suitable for staining in pathology, microscopy, microbiology and hematology. Staining is a contrast-enhancing procedure used to prepare samples for microscopic examination. In light microscopy, specimens are colored using various dyes, many of which are selective; that is, they stain a specific type of tissue, bacteria, or cellular component. Several stains may be used in sequence to produce a counterstained sample.
Stains are classified as acidic, basic or neutral, depending on the nature of the stain's colored radicals. Acidic stains tend to react with cytoplasm, whereas basic stains are taken up by nucleic acids. In electron microscopy, the term "staining" may be applied to procedures wherein electron-dense materials such as salts or osmium, uranium and lead bind to and increase the electron density of various cell constituents.
For example, Aniline Blue is an acidic, water-soluble dye used to stain connective tissue. This dye is valuable for visualizing connective tissue fibers beneath epithelia within glands and muscles. Aniline Blue colors collagen fiber dark blue, mucous and cartilage matrix light blue, and nerve tissue lilac. It can be used as a counterstain with red nuclear dye. Concentrations as low as +/-1% can be used to evaluate thick sections of resin-embedded material for electron microscopy.
Dishes, covers and racks are manufactured from soda-lime glass and resist stains from Eosin or Hemotoxylin. Staining dishes are available in many configurations to accommodate up to 50 slides, with various glass and stainless steel racks.
Coplin jars can be used for pre-staining with and alcohol buffer. Slides are held vertically for easy manipulation. A Coplin jar can also serve as a preparation chamber for micro-thin-layer chromatography.
Wheaton® staining dishes have been used for a variety of procedures to clean slides and coat them with a variety of materials (for example, Bain, J.R.; Hoffman, A.S. Glycophase glass revisited: Protein adsorption and cell growth on glass surfaces bearing immobilized monosaccharides, Biomaterials, in press 2002). Wheaton® staining dishes have also been used for poly lysine and silane slide coatings.
Note: Wheaton® staining dishes are not autoclavable or microwaveable, and are not intended for use at temperatures below 15°C or above 80°C.
21054
These mix-and-match components offer greater flexibility in meeting your requirements. This staining dish accommodates 16, 30 and 40 slide racks, listed below. Manufactured from Wheaton® soda lime glass.
Approximate inside dimensions (L x W x H): 120 x 90 x 70mm (4.72" x 3.54" x 2.75"). Maximum liquid volume without rack is approximately 650 ml.
30-Slide Rack, Stainless Steel
fits 21054 Wheaton® Staining Dishes
Slotted rack is designed to hold 30 microscope slides 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm), 3" x 1-1/2" (75 x 38mm), and 3" x 2" (75 x 51mm). The rack is made of non-tarnishable 304 stainless steel and is chemical resistant. Handle is permanently attached, but hinged to permit closure of dish and easy insertion and removal of the microscope slides.
Rack dimensions (L x W x H): 105 x 80 x 25mm (4.13" x 3.15" x 1")
Slide Rack Adapter
21055
Stainless steel Slide Rack Adapter kit for auto stainer slide racks. Allows the slide carrier rack for standard 1” x 3” slides to accommodate large slides for staining. The Slide Rack Adapter fits into the standard slide space like a slide. This companion adapter can be placed the appropriate distance to create a space for holding the large slide.
The Slide Rack Adapter fits most staining racks. (slide rack not included).
16/32 Slide Rack, Glass
21056
The Glass Rack holds 16 single slides, 31 slides arranged alternately straight across and diagonally, or 32 slides back-to-back.
Rack dimensions (L x W x H): 99 x 89 x 46mm (3.9" x 3.5" x 1.8")
20/40 Slide Rack, Glass
21057
Holds 20 single slides or 40 back to back of regular 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) size, 3" x 1-1/2" (75 x 38mm) and 3" x 2" (75 x 51mm) sizes.
Rack dimensions (L x W x H): 119 x 87 x 48mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 1.9")
Staining Dish 50-Slide Unit, with Cover
21058
Slotted rack holds 50 microscope slides, sizes 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) as well as 3" x 1-1/2" (75 x 38mm). The unit measures approximately 200 x 83 x 105mm (7.87" x 3.27" x 4.13") overall.
Rack is made of non-tarnishable 304 stainless steel and is resistant to most staining solutions. The handle is permanently attached, but hinged to permit closure of dish and easy insertion and removal of the microscope slides. Dish and cover are made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 70 x 185 x 90mm (2.75" x 7.28" x 3.54"). Maximum liquid volume without rack is approximately 950 ml.
10/20 Slide Staining Dish with Cover
21066
For staining 3 x 1" (75 x 25mm) microscope slides. Holds 10 single slides, 19 slides arranged alternately straight across and diagonally, or 20 slides back-to-back. Made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 77 x 60 x 30mm (3" x 2-3/8" x 1-3/16"). Maximum liquid volume without rack is approximately 150 ml.
Staining Dish - 20-Slide Unit
21043
This 20-slide unit is the standard for manual staining procedures, holds 10 single slides or 20 back to back. Removable glass slide rack has an open bottom for rapid immersing and draining of stain, eliminating any carryover. The rack holds 20 slides of regular size 3" x 1" (75 x 24mm), 3" x 1-1/2" (75 x 38mm) sizes. Made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 86 L x 68 W x 57mm D (3.4" x 2.63" x 2.25"). Maximum liquid volume without rack is approximately 400 ml. Rack dimensions: (L x W x H) 69 x 89 x 46mm (2.7" x 3.5" x 1.8")
Vertical Staining Jar with Cover
432-1
The wide top makes this jar especially suitable for staining slides inscribed on one end. Holds 8 single 3 x 1" (75 x 25mm) slides vertically or 16 slides back-to-back. Made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 90 x 50 x 30mm (3.5" x 2" x 1.18"). Holds about 50ml of liquid.
Hellendahl Type Staining Dish
21074
For staining or use as a TLC developing chamber. Holds 8 individual 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) slides. If necessary, 16 slides can be accommodated back-to-back. Made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 75 x 80 x 30mm (3" x 3.14" x 1.18").
Coplin Staining Jar with Glass Cover
21067
A popular staining jar with heavy glass walls and broad base for increased stability. Holds 5 single 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) slides vertically or 10 slides back to back. Requires small reagent volume. Made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 75 x 30 x 30mm (3" x 1.18" x 1.18").
Short Coplin Staining Jar with Plastic Screw Top
431-3
Holds 5 single 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) slides or 10 back to back. Slides extend above the opening, permitting them to be manipulated without forceps. Screw cap is linerless, white polypropylene. The white linerless polypropylene Screw cap closure retains organic solvents and reduces evaporation. Rectangular base. Made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 65 x 30 x 30mm (2.6" x 1.18" x 1.18"). Holds about 50ml of liquid.
Tall Coplin Staining Jar with Plastic Screw Top
428-3
For staining slides or use as a developing chamber in thin layer chromatography. Unit holds 5 single 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) slides vertically or 10 slides back-to-back. Screw cap is white linerless polypropylene which reduces solvent evaporation. Rectangular base. Made of soda lime glass. Approximate inside dimensions: 70 x 30 x 30mm (2.75" x 1.18" x 1.18").
Five Slide Plastic Gripper
21048
Holds up to five each 3" x 1" (25 x 75mm) slides and fits Coplin Jars and round-mouthed staining jars. Molded plastic withstands chemicals used in staining including special stains and metals. Can be used in temperatures up to 80°C.
Coplin Staining Jar with Tall Glass Cover
21073
Chamber with extra tall lid accepts five single 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) and 3.94" x 1" (100 x 25mm) slides. Made of soda lime glass. Meets USP Type 1 standards.
Polypropylene Staining Jar
21038
Tapered, square with flat shallow threaded screw cap. Holds either 5 single or 10 back-to-back standard 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) slides in grooves. Loosen lid before autoclaving.
Coplin Staining Jar
21029
Polypropylene staining jar holds either 5 single or 10 back-to-back standard 3" x 1" (75 x 25mm) slides. The interior is grooved to hold the slides in and upright position. Domed and shallow thread cap provides protection to the slides. Loosen lid before autoclaving. Sold in package of 4.
Columbia Staining Jar for Coverslips
21040
This staining jar can hold up to 4 cover slips measuring 17-23mm wide, and up to 30mm long. Longer coverslips can be accommodated by removing the cap. The jar comes with a white polypropylene screw cap with a PTFE coated polyethylene liner. It is manufactured from Wheaton® soda lime glass, which meets USP type III standards, and is resistant to most chemicals.
PELCO Stain Saver™ Kits
21092
21092 - 21095
reduce your volume of antibody and consumables to save money
- The unique design delivers significant primary and secondary antibody cost savings (up to 90%)
- Designed to create a capillary gap between 1" x 3" or 2" x 3" slides and any size or shape coverslip for those slides (21092)
- There are two designs: the 21092, T-1 for single antibody staining and the 21095, T-2 designed for staining two tissues with 2 different antibodies on the same slide
- Perfect for conventional staining protocols
This unique staining device is a breakthrough in cost-savings for immunohistochemistry. For the first time it is possible to create a capillary gap for slides or coverslips using one simple device. There are no expensive consumables, as with other products. The design of the PELCO Stain Saver™ will limit the amount of precious antibody to less than 200ul for a 22 x 22mm (#2 thickness) coverslip-sized area. Total stainable area on a slide or coverslip can be up to 24 x 50mm (21092).
PELCO® Technical Notes, Stain Saver™ Kits (117KB PDF)
Either design will accommodate round or square coverslips. The tissue to be labeled can be on a coverslip or slide because both are employed to create a uniform capillary gap. The unique adhesive properties of the mesas, in the design of the PELCO Stain Saver™, provide adhesion of either Thermanox or glass coverslips to the mesa tops. For conventional immunohistochemistry (overnight or longer incubations) the PELCO® Storage Box serves as an ideal humid chamber (2239-6 holds 1 PELCO Stain Saver™ and the 2239-2 holds 4). Each kit contains a staining pad insert inside a black box (21092-2 Medium Black Plastic Box, styrene. T-1 and 2 kits will accommodate 3 each 1" x 3" or 1 each 2" x 3" slides. The capillary gap with a #2 coverslip is 320µm.
2249-6 - 2249-2
The Polypropylene Humid Chambers are a convenient and economical way to create a humid environment for slides, PELCO Stain Saver™ Kits or other slide applications. The chambers are made from sturdy, impact resistant polypropylene with a sealing lid and a polystyrene insert to place slides, PELCO Stain Saver™ Kits or coverslips above the water level.
Disposable Staining Slide Tray Set
Stain, rinse and dry slides on a single working tray.
21052
Made of polypropylene and polyethylene blend. This rugged staining tray provides a clean, fresh working surface for up to eight slides. Base has a deep well which holds 38ml of liquid. Top grip on lid, recessed handles on base along with two pour spouts on base, facilitate transport and waste removal. The dark color of the base and lid make it ideal for light sensitive luminescent and UV applications. Set includes 4 bases and 1 lid.
- Economical alternative to metal trays
- Single use avoids cross-contamination
- Sturdy, yet light weight and compact
- 305mm x 127mm x 29.5mm (12" x 5" x 1-5/32")
Microwave-assisted Immunostaining on Glass Slides
36107 - 36105
The Sequenza™ Slide Rack, holding 10 glass slides and Coverplates™, is a system designed for the immunolabeling of sections on glass slides. While originally designed for bench techniques, this system is uniquely suited for microwave-assisted applications. The Slide Rack holds glass slides with a Coverplate™. This combination forms a capillary gap between the slide and the plate. Reagent volumes, especially antibody, are greatly reduced using this versatile system. A reagent hopper forms the uppermost part of the plastic Coverplate™ allowing for easy dispensing of reagent into the capillary gap. Using a PELCO® Microwave Processor with a PELCO ColdSpot®, rapid immunostaining of sections on glass slides is reliable and easy. Go to the Immunolabeling Application Kit for the PELCO BioWave® Pro.
Clean with 10% bleach solution and rinse with well water. Sequenza™ Slide Rack and Coverplate™ system is not dishwasher safe.
PELCO® Technical Notes, Coverplate™ Technology (127KB PDF)
Immunostain Moisture Chamber
21049-A, 21049, 21049-B
This is a low-cost, high precision moisture chamber for ten slides. Every moisture chamber is divided into ten individual compartments with approximately 12.7mm (1/2") empty space between the compartments. When the chamber lid is closed, eight barrier dividers are placed into the empty spaces between the microscope slide compartments completely isolating all compartments. This is a very desirable feature when doing immunostaining.
The microscope slides are placed on four pedestal posts and four corner posts each 11.5mm (0.460") high, thus raising the surface of the slides approximately 12.7mm (1/2") off the floor to keep the slides away from the water below and making the slides easily retrievable (either by hand or by forcep).
The chamber is fabricated out of heavy-duty polystyrene with an air-tight design to keep moisture in. The chamber is designed to be stackable in order to save counter and/or refrigerator space.
Dimensions: 214 x 175 x 34mm (8.43" x 6.89" x 1.34")
Available in clear, black and amber.
StainTray™ Slide Staining System
for up to 10, 20 and 30 slides; available with clear or black lid
21053
StainTray™ Slide Staining
System for up to 30 slides
21050
StainTray™ Slide Staining
System for up to 20 slides
21051
StainTray™ Slide Staining
System for up to 10 slides
The StainTray™ is a versatile staining chamber for immunohistochemistry, routine and light-sensitive stains. The unique design allows water to be added in order to create a stable humidity chamber. The chamber may also be left empty and act as a waste reservoir during solution changes. There is a convenient drain plug for easy emptying of the base tray. Both the black base and black lid offer a light-safe environment for any light-sensitive stains.
The StainTray™ base is constructed of sturdy ABS plastic and contains 4 plastic rails, each with a silicone strip to ensure your slides adhere securely in the tray. The rails are raised to prevent interference from the water or waste in the reservoir and to make the slides easier to retrieve. The four rubber feet give greater stability to the base during staining. The units are stackable for more convenient storage. The StainTray™ offers multiple staining options that can be ideal for histology as well as hematology, cytology and microbiology laboratories.
- Secure slides with convenient silicone strip
- Black lid for light sensitive stains
- Optional clear lid available for routine staining visibility
- Multi-use tray as humidity chamber or waste reservoir
- Stackable for convenient storage
- Safe for use with cleaning agents except acetone
- Available in 10, 20 and 30 slide capacity
- StainTray™ for 30 slides dimensions: 38 x 32.5 x 4.5cm H (15" x 13" x 1-3/4" H)
- StainTray™ for 20 slides dimensions: 38 x 24 x 4.5cm H (15" x 9-3/8" x 1-3/4" H)
- StainTray™ for 10 slides dimensions: 24 x 24 x 4.5cm H (9-3/8" x 9-3/8" x 1-3/4" H)
Background Buster
Peptide blocker for removal of background staining
18722
For use in: Immunohistochemistry, Immunofluorescence, In-situ probe staining
Background staining or non specific staining is a common problem in immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and in-situ probe staining reducing the signal to noise ratio. Background Buster is a peptide blocker that eradicates all general background staining caused by primary antibodies, staining reagents, chromogens, fixatives, and endogenous biotin. Background Buster is used in place of normal sera and other blocking agents for removing background in both animal and human tissue staining. Eradicating background, thereby increasing the signal to noise ratio is important for obtaining background free specific staining for the ease of qualitative and quantitative evaluation of staining procedures.
Note: Nonspecific staining due to red blood cells is caused by endogenous peroxide enzyme in the red blood cells. This type of background requires a pre-treatment step with 3% hydrogen peroxide in water. This blocking step should precede the blocking step with Background Buster.
LockMailer™ - Microscope Mailer and Staining Jar
Color coded Capinserts™
Bottom view
The LockMailer™ is a tamper proof multi purpose compact container for transporting, storing, mailing or staining microscope slides. It is constructed of extra-strong and clear polypropylene and will hold up to 4 standard 1x3" or 25x75mm slides vertically. The inside slotted channels will keep the slide safely separated. It incorporates a unique tamper evident leakproof screw cap made of HD polyethylene. The tamper evident screw cap avoids manipulation of slides without your knowledge. The LockMailer™ can also be used without the tamper proof feature. The caps on the Lockmailer™ can be color coded with the optional Capinserts™, available in different colors: blue, gray, green, lilac and orange. The Capinsert™ is inserted in the top of the cap and has a write frosted area for sample identification.
The LockMailer™ is also an efficient staining vessel: the unique design has a reduced internal volume to decrease the amount of staining solutions needed; 14ml w/o slides. Only 12ml for 1 slide, 10ml for 2 slides, 8ml for 3 slides and 6ml for 4 slides of the staining solution is needed.
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Push up the attached tab on side of vial. |
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Make sure it firmly clicks in place. |
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Screw on tamper proof cap all the way. |
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When opening the vial, the tamper evident ring will detach itself from the cap. |
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The LockMailer can also be used without the tamper evident feature. |
Documentation
Documentation


















