Find your perfect slide match.

Choosing the right microscope slide with the slide finder tool. 

Selecting the right microscope slide might seem like a small decision – but it can have a big impact on staining quality, tissue adherence, and workflow efficiency. Whether you’re working with routine stains or IHC, the Slide Finder Tool helps you quickly identify the best slide for your needs. 

Key Factors to consider when choosing slides: 

• Types of stains performed will determine the ideal slide for optimal surface adhesion and minimal background staining 
  • H&E – non-adhesion or standard adhesion slides are generally sufficient for most tissue types. KT1 or KT3+ are ideal options.
  • Specials – Similar to H&E, non-adhesion or standard adhesion slides will work well. KT1 or KT3+ are recommended.
  • IHC – Due to harsh processing conditions, high adhesion slides are usually required. KT5+ is an excellent choice for IHC.
• Slide labeling method: Do you use a slide printer? Different slide printers require specific types of painted or “frosted” tabs to ensure print durability and reliable barcode scanning. For thermal transfer printers, a smoother surface yields better print quality. However, laser or inkjet printers require specially coated slides designed for the specific print mechanisms.
• Waterbath Behavior: Decide if your workflow benefits more from hydrophobic or hydrophilic slides.  
  • Hydrophobic slides: tissue “jumps” to the slide, typically unable to reposition
    • Great for leveled biopsies
    • Quick sticking tissues enable you to pick up more tissues in less time
    • Pick up at 45-degree angle
  • Hydrophilic slides: tissue is “chased” and picked up at a 90-degree angle
    • Allows you to reposition tissues for ideal staining
    • Ensure proper adhesion by gently tapping the slide to release any water trapped beneath the tissue. 
  • Corner style: Choose between 90ⷪ degree or clipped corners. This is usually determined by the slide printers or staining instruments used in your lab. If you’re unsure, check the user manual or ask your applications specialist. 

Ready to find your perfect slide? We make it easy. Use the Slide Finder Tool to find the most compatible slides for your lab’s workflow.  If you’re looking for more detailed information about slide adhesion and performance, head over to Troubleshooting and Choosing the Right Type of Slides.