Get a dilution vial. Discard 1 mL of diluent so that the dilution vial is filled to the 9 mL mark.
Add 1 mL of your sample to the dilution vial (which brings it back up to the 10 mL mark). This results in a 1:10 dilution of your sample. Once mixed together, we call it your sample vial from now on.
Procedure to make 1:10 dilutions
Vortex each dilution step thoroughly!
Always vortex thoroughly for at least 10 seconds. Ensure that a clear cyclone/vortex appears.
You must perform proper vortexing to ensure that the transferred bacteria are well-mixed in the prepared dilution. Without proper vortexing, you may get underestimation of concentration and variation between replicates.
Your sample vial is for single use only
Once you run the liquid through BactoBox®, the properties change significantly.
Always discard your sample vial after use!
Is the final dilution factor in your sample vial 1:10?
You might run into conductivity-related errors. Avoid these with a custom diluent.
