Storage of Media

After autoclaving keep bottles closed so they remain sterile. Don't pour many more plates then you can use, as these don't stay good for a very long time (up to a month in the fridge).

Media with agar

Short term:
Autoclaved solutions are hot and should be carefully mixed when still hot to get a homogeneous solution. After making the solutions with agar, the bottles can be stored at 50 °C for up to a week. If the bottles are left for longer the agar will break down and the media will not become solid again.

Long term:
Autoclaved solutions can be stored for month or even years on the shelf when the bottles are properly closed. The agar will solidify, but media can be heated in the microwave or a water bath (~90°C) and will become liquid. Make sure that the bottles are not filled for more than 700mL for 1L bottles and ~350ml for 500ml bottles. NOT when the medium contains antibiotics or other ingredients which break down over time. Media containing antibiotics cannot be reheated because they will break down over time.

Media without agar

Long and short term:
Autoclaved solutions can be stored for years on the shelf when the bottles are properly closed. NOT when the medium contains antibiotics or other ingredients which break down over time.

Short term:
Autoclaved solutions can be stored for years on the shelf when the bottles are properly closed. Keep liquid that contains antibiotics or other ingredients that break down over time in the fridge.