Which autoclave is typically used for sterilising drapes and other materials?

• A. Pressure cooker style autoclaves
• B. Vertical/Horizontal downward displacement autoclaves
• C. A standard gravity autoclave
• D. Vacuum assisted autoclaves

Answer: (D)

The key idea is steam penetration into porous, layered loads. Drapes and similar fabrics trap air between folds and fibers, which can block steam from reaching every surface. Vacuum-assisted autoclaves remove that air before introducing steam, so the steam can contact all parts of the load and achieve thorough sterilization. In contrast, gravity-displacement (or standard gravity) units rely on steam pushing air out by displacement, which can leave air pockets in porous materials and take longer to reach inner layers. So, for sterilizing drapes and other fabrics, a vacuum-assisted autoclave provides more reliable and efficient sterility.