How to Choose the Right Lab Incubator: A Practical Guide
A lab incubator is a carefully controlled environment designed to support the growth of microbiological or cell cultures through precise regulation of temperature, humidity, and—where applicable—CO₂ levels Excedr . From early bacterial studies to cutting-edge stem cell research, incubators remain central to reliable lab outcomes. Types of Laboratory Incubators You Should Know Here's a breakdown of major incubator types and their typical applications: Standard (Non-CO₂) Incubators Maintain stable temperatures—ideal for general microbiology tasks like bacterial and fungal culture. CO₂ Incubators Offer temperature, humidity, and CO₂ control—critical for mammalian cell culture and pH-sensitive applications. Refrigerated Incubators Capable of cooling below ambient—used in enzyme studies, protein crystallization, and environmental testing. Shaking Incubators Incorporate agitation to ensure aeration and uniform mixing—great for recombinant protein production or microbi...