Histology FAQ

Staining, Histochemistry and Histotechnology

(Frequently Asked Questions)

Dr. John A. Kiernan
Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology
The University of Western Ontario
London, Canada

FAQ Home > Processing, Decalcifying, Embedding

Mold release spray

Question.

Is there something you can spray into an embedding mold to make it easier to extract the solidified wax block?

Answer.

I faced the problem of mold-release spray several years ago by mixing a solution of 5% green dishwashing soap (such as Palmolive) in 50% Ethanol, then putting it into a pump spray bottle (available form any housewares department). This worked AT LEAST as well as the outrageously expensive stuff sold as "Mold-Release Spray", and it contained no CFC's or other "evils".

Joanne Lahey
Battelle Duxbury Operations
Duxbury, MA 02332
(laheyj[AT]battelle.org)