Microscope slides are a fundamental consumable in any laboratory, used to mount and examine specimens under a microscope. Whether you’re working in histology, pathology, microbiology, or education, having the right slide for your application makes a significant difference to the quality and reliability of your results.
At Hurst Scientific, we supply microscope slides and coverslips to laboratories across Australia, including plain glass, frosted glass, and adhesive coated slides.
Types of Microscope Slides
Plain Glass Slides Plain microscope slides are the standard choice for general laboratory use. Suitable for a wide range of staining procedures and routine specimen examination, they are available with a frosted end for easy labelling with pencil or marker — an essential feature in busy lab environments where sample identification is critical.
Adhesive Coated Slides (Poly-L-Lysine) Poly-L-lysine coated slides are designed for applications where superior tissue adhesion is required. The positively charged coating improves the bonding of negatively charged tissue sections to the slide surface, reducing the risk of section loss during staining procedures. These are particularly valuable in histology and immunohistochemistry workflows.
Coverslips/Coverglass We also supply glass coverslips/coverglass to complement our microscope slide range. Coverslips/Coverglass protect specimens from contamination and damage, improve image clarity, and are essential for wet mount preparations and permanent slide mounting.
Common Applications for Microscope Slides
Frequently Asked Questions
What size are standard microscope slides? Standard microscope slides are 75mm x 25mm with a thickness of approximately 1mm. This is the most widely used size and is compatible with the vast majority of laboratory microscopes.
What is the difference between plain and frosted microscope slides? Plain slides have a fully clear surface, while frosted slides have a small frosted area at one end for writing sample identification details. Frosted slides are generally preferred in clinical and research settings where accurate sample labelling is essential.
When should I use adhesive coated slides? Adhesive coated slides such as poly-L-lysine slides are recommended when working with tissue sections that may lift or detach during processing — particularly during lengthy staining protocols or high-temperature antigen retrieval steps common in immunohistochemistry.
Do you supply coverslips as well? Yes. Hurst Scientific stocks glass coverslips to suit standard microscope slides. Contact us if you need help matching coverslip size to your application.
Can I order microscope slides in bulk? Yes. We supply microscope slides in bulk quantities suited to laboratory, hospital, and institutional purchasing. Contact our team for volume pricing.
Order Microscope Slides Online
Hurst Scientific is an Australian laboratory supplier delivering microscope slides and coverslips to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and nationwide. Browse our range below or contact our team if you need help selecting the right slides for your application.
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