The original stethoscope box won’t bend or stretch it out improperly. Don’t tightly fold the stethoscope and keep it in your pocket—ideally, store it in its natural position. [3] X Research source

For instance, place it in its natural position in a desk or cabinet drawer or in your locker. Keep your stethoscope out of direct sunlight, if you can. A lot of sunlight can damage the stethoscope over time. [5] X Research source

For safekeeping, assign a separate storage space for your stethoscope to make sure it’s safe.

Don’t carry your stethoscope around your neck, if possible—your neck can transfer a lot of oil onto your equipment over time. Instead, wear your stethoscope around a shirt or coat collar.

For more specific instructions, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came with your exact stethoscope model.

Don’t reconnect any of these pieces until they’re totally dry. Air-dry them or dry them manually with a microfiber cloth.

The alcohol also sanitizes your stethoscope. [11] X Research source Don’t use an autoclave or steam cleaning system to sterilize your stethoscope, or you might damage it.