Test Tube/Boiling Tube Clear Glass

Quick Answer: A Test Tube / Boiling Tube in clear glass is a basic cylindrical vessel, closed at one end, used across schools and laboratories for holding, heating, mixing, and observing small quantities of liquids and solids during practical work.

Description

The Test Tube/Boiling Tube is one of the most widely used pieces of laboratory glassware, found in nearly every chemistry, biology, and general science lab. Made from clear glass for full visibility of reactions and contents, it allows students and technicians to observe colour changes, precipitate formation, and reaction progress clearly from any angle.

Boiling tubes are typically slightly larger and more heat-tolerant than standard test tubes, making them suitable for direct heating over a burner during simple experiments, gentle warming of solutions, and small-scale reactions. The open mouth allows easy pouring, use with a stopper, or insertion of a delivery tube where a sealed setup is required.

Because it is made of laboratory glass, this tube can generally tolerate the moderate heating and common reagents typical of teaching and general chemistry work, while remaining durable enough for repeated use with proper handling and storage.

Specifications

Applications

• Heating small samples directly over a Bunsen burner or spirit lamp during practical demonstrations
• Mixing and observing reactions where clear visibility of colour change or precipitate is important
• Holding and storing small liquid or solid samples during a lab session
• General biology and chemistry teaching exercises, including simple titrations and qualitative tests

Care & Handling

• Use a test tube holder or tongs when heating, and always point the open mouth away from yourself and others.
• Allow the tube to cool gradually after heating rather than plunging it into cold water, to reduce thermal shock.
• Inspect the rim regularly for chips or cracks before use, since a damaged rim is the most common failure point.
• Clean and dry thoroughly after use, and store upright in a test tube rack to prevent chipping or breakage.

Why Choose LabEquip

LabEquip supplies test tubes and boiling tubes alongside a wide range of lab glassware and general chemistry lab equipment for schools, colleges, and teaching laboratories. Our team can help you confirm the right size and quantity for your practical sessions. For bulk orders, institutional procurement, or technical questions about this product, please contact us and our team will assist promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a test tube and a boiling tube?

A boiling tube is generally slightly larger and made to better withstand direct heating, while a standard test tube is more often used for mixing, storing, and observing samples without heating.

Can this tube be heated directly over a flame?

Laboratory glass test/boiling tubes can generally tolerate the moderate direct heating typical of teaching chemistry work; always use a holder and heat gently, moving the tube through the flame rather than holding it still in one spot.

What sizes are available?

These tubes are supplied in standard laboratory sizes. Please confirm the exact length and diameter you require when you enquire.

Is a stopper included with the tube?

The tube itself has a plain open mouth suited to a standard stopper or bung; please check with our team when ordering if you need stoppers included.

How many tubes come in a pack?

Pack quantities vary — please confirm current pack size and pricing for this listing when you enquire.

How should the tubes be cleaned and stored?

Clean and dry each tube thoroughly after use, check the rim for chips, and store upright in a test tube rack to keep them organised and protected from breakage.

Last Updated: September 2026