Dirty glassware may introduce contaminants which can result in:
(1) false negative reactions (inhibit reactions)
(2) false positive findings
(3) debris or discolorants
(4) introduction of toxic materials
(5) unexpected byproducts
Situations where clean glassware is critical:
(1) A reaction is known by experience to require scrupulously clean glassware.
(2) The product may be consumed.
(3) The process is expensive.
(4) There is a need to be able to detect trace amounts.
(5) The test cannot be repeated.
(6) False positive or false negative results could have serious consequences.
(7) A product needs to be as pure as possible.
(8) There is a risk of explosion if a contaminant is present.
