Laboratory Spatula: Uses and How to Use It

Laboratory equipment guide

Laboratory Spatula: Uses and How to Use It

A laboratory spatula is a small stainless-steel, plastic or PTFE scoop used to take solids or powders from a bottle and transfer them to a weighing container. Usually one end is spoon-shaped and the other flat.

How to use a spatula Laboratory Spatula at AMI Scientific

What is a spatula used for?

Taking solids out of reagent bottles.
Adding powder a little at a time while weighing.
Scraping or spreading powders and precipitates.

Parts of a spatula

1Spoon end – for scooping larger amounts
2Flat blade – for small amounts and scraping
3Shaft – the handle

How to use a spatula

Step 1

Take only what you need

Use a clean, dry spatula to take the substance from the bottle (1). Take slightly less than you need; never return excess to the bottle.

Step 2

Tap gently to add small amounts

Over the weighing container, tap the spatula shaft gently with your forefinger (1) so the powder falls a little at a time until the mass is right.

Step 3

Clean it before changing substance

Wipe the spatula with tissue, then rinse and dry it before using it for another substance (1), so substances do not contaminate each other.

Common mistakes

Returning excess to the stock bottle: the whole bottle can be contaminated.
Using a metal spatula for substances that react with metal: use plastic or PTFE.

Care and safety

Wash and dry after use; do not leave it in acid.
Store in a closed container to keep it clean.

SOP for using a spatula

A summary of the standard operating procedure (SOP) for a spatula that your laboratory can adapt. Each step is explained in the how-to section above.

1Protective equipment

A buttoned, long-sleeved lab coat.
Safety glasses; goggles where corrosive splashes are possible.
Nitrile gloves suited to the chemicals handled; heat-resistant gloves for hot items.

2Before use

The spatula is clean, dry and made of a material compatible with the substance.
Read the SDS of every chemical you will handle.

4After use

Wipe, wash, rinse and dry.
Close the reagent bottle straight away.

5Verification & calibration

Spatulas are not calibrated.

6Emergencies

Chemical spill: warn people nearby, secure the area and clean up with a spill kit according to the SDS.
Chemical on skin or in eyes: rinse with running water for at least 15 minutes (eyewash or safety shower), then report to the lab supervisor.

A print-ready version with purpose, scope, illustrated procedure, verification and sign-off boxes. Fill in your own document number and effective date.

Download the SOP (PDF, A4)

Types and sizes

Stainless-steel spatulas are most common, 150–250 mm long, in spoon-and-blade, double-blade and micro versions for tiny amounts. PTFE or polypropylene spatulas are used for corrosive substances and metal-sensitive samples; disposable spatulas prevent cross-contamination.