What is a Still Air Box (SAB)?
A Still Air Box is a clear, enclosed container that allows you to work inside a sterile environment without the need for a laminar flow hood or a sterile room.
It essentially traps dust, spores, and contaminants by creating still (non-moving) air inside, which reduces the risk of contamination during processes like transferring agar cultures or inoculating substrates.
A Still Air Box (SAB) is used in mushroom cultivation for two key purposes: performing sterile agar work, such as transferring mycelium or inoculating petri dishes, and inoculating gourmet or medicinal mushroom substrates.
It creates a clean environment that reduces contamination risks, making it ideal for beginners or budget-conscious growers. Although its small workspace and lack of airflow control require careful technique, the SAB's simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable tool for improving success rates in mushroom cultivation.
By providing a controlled, sterile environment, it enhances the likelihood of successful growth and reduces the need for expensive equipment.
Using a SAB
Maintaining sterility is crucial when using a Still Air Box (SAB), especially for beginners. Contamination can easily ruin your mushroom cultivation efforts, so it’s important to keep everything clean and follow proper techniques. As a beginner, this focus on cleanliness helps ensure that your agar work and inoculations are successful, leading to healthier mycelium growth and better mushroom yields.
Follow the instructions below to ensure a successful project!
Prepare Your Space: Set up the SAB in a clean, clutter-free area, preferably near a clean air source, like an air purifier.
Disinfect: Wipe down the inside and outside of the SAB with rubbing alcohol and clean any tools you’ll be using.
Arm Holes: Insert your hands into the arm holes (wear gloves) and make sure your arms don’t touch the sides.
Set Up Supplies: Place your sterilized agar plates, tools, and culture or spawn inside the SAB.
Work Inside the SAB: Perform your inoculations or transfers inside the box to minimize contamination risks.
Close the Box: After finishing, carefully remove everything and clean your tools. Always disinfect the SAB after use.
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