Pipetting Best Practices, 6 Key Tips to Ensure More Accurate and Reproducible Laboratory Results
Pipetting Technique: A Critical Factor in the Quality of Analytical Results
16 July 2026
In any laboratory, accuracy depends not only on the instrument used but also on the technique applied.
Pipettes are designed to deliver high levels of accuracy and precision. However, their actual performance depends on several factors related to everyday use. Selecting the wrong volume range, using incompatible tips, applying poor aspiration technique, or neglecting maintenance can introduce variability and compromise the reproducibility of analytical results.
For this reason, proper pipetting technique is not simply a routine task—it is an essential component of any analytical quality strategy.
Pipetting: A Routine Operation That Requires Precision
Pipetting is one of the most frequently performed procedures in research, clinical diagnostics, biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and quality control laboratories.
Although it may appear straightforward, every liquid transfer involves variables that can affect the final result. Achieving reliable measurements depends on the combination of the pipette, the consumables used, and the operator's technique.
Controlling these factors helps reduce variability, minimize repeat testing, and increase confidence in analytical results.
6 Key Factors to Optimize Your Pipetting Technique
1. Select the Right Pipette for Each Application
Choosing the appropriate pipette for the required volume is the first step toward reliable measurements. Operating within the recommended volume range—and as close as possible to the pipette's nominal volume—helps minimize measurement error and maximize instrument performance.
2. Use High-Quality, Compatible Pipette Tips
The pipette and tip function as a single measuring system. Proper compatibility ensures an optimal fit, an effective seal, and more accurate volume transfer.
In addition, high-quality tips help reduce variability, prevent sample loss, and minimize the risk of contamination.
3. Pre-Wet the Tip When Required
Pre-wetting the tip by aspirating and dispensing the liquid before the actual transfer conditions the inner surface of the tip and stabilizes liquid performance.
This practice is especially important when handling small volumes, volatile liquids, or applications where maximum accuracy is essential.
4. Apply Proper Aspiration Technique
The way liquid is aspirated directly affects pipetting accuracy. Keeping the pipette vertical, immersing the tip to the correct depth, and releasing the plunger slowly and smoothly help reduce bubble formation and improve reproducibility.
5. Dispense the Liquid Completely and Consistently
Accurate liquid transfer requires proper dispensing technique. Touching the tip against the wall of the receiving vessel and using the plunger correctly ensures complete delivery of the aspirated volume.
6. Keep the Pipette Clean, Verified, and Calibrated
Routine cleaning, preventive maintenance, and regular calibration are essential to maintaining long-term instrument accuracy.
A properly maintained pipette helps detect performance deviations, prevent systematic errors, and ensure reliable results in every application.
Accuracy Begins with Good Technique
In laboratory metrology, one principle is fundamental: measurement uncertainty is influenced not only by the instrument itself, but also by the process and the way it is used.
For this reason, training in good pipetting practices should be an integral part of every laboratory's quality culture.
Proper technique improves reproducibility, optimizes resources, and increases confidence in every analytical result.
Learn the Essentials of Accurate Pipetting
To help laboratories implement these recommendations, AUXILAB has prepared an informative video that visually summarizes the six essential best practices for improving pipetting technique.
🎥 Watch the video and learn how to optimize every liquid transfer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vHB4jyCP0Y&t=1s
Need to Ensure the Accuracy of Your Pipettes?
Regular calibration and performance verification are essential to maintaining the accuracy of your pipettes.
Contact AUXILAB to learn more about our pipette calibration services and ensure maximum reliability in your laboratory processes.