The Littmann CORE Digital Stethoscope is an advanced diagnostic tool that combines Littmann's famous acoustic performance with the Eko CORE digital module. To ensure accurate sound quality, device longevity, and patient safety, it's essential to clean and maintain your stethoscope correctly.

This guide walks you through daily cleaning, deep cleaning, digital module precautions, and long-term maintenance.

Why Proper Cleaning Is Essential

A stethoscope is used on multiple patients daily, which makes proper cleaning a critical part of infection control. According to CDC recommendations, reusable medical equipment must be disinfected between every patient, and that includes the Littmann CORE.

Proper cleaning ensures:

• Accurate auscultation (debris affects diaphragm performance)
• Infection control and patient safety
• Longevity of tubing and hardware
• Protection of sensitive digital components

Neglecting routine cleaning can lead to stiff tubing, sound distortion, and premature device damage.

Daily Cleaning Routine (After Every Shift)

Perform this routine after patient care or at the end of each shift to maintain hygiene and performance.

1. Wipe All External Surfaces

Use 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes to clean:

• The Eko CORE digital module
• Stethoscope tubing
• Chestpiece (diaphragm, bell, and rim)
• Tubing connectors

Tip: Alcohol wipes are the ONLY approved disinfectant for the digital module.

2. Clean the Diaphragms

Both adult and pediatric diaphragms can be removed if needed.

• Remove the diaphragm
• Wipe with 70% alcohol
• Allow it to fully dry
• Reattach firmly

3. Clean the Eartips

The eartips can be removed, though they may require firm pulling, as they are designed to stay secure.

How to remove:

• Hold the eartube with one hand
• Grip the eartip with your thumb and forefinger
• Pull sharply away

How to reattach:

• Push the eartip onto the metal eartube until it snaps fully into place.

Warning: Loose eartips can cause ear canal injuries. Ensure they are fully secured before use.

Weekly Deep Cleaning Routine

Set aside time once a week to perform a more thorough cleaning:

1. Remove the Eartips

Deep clean them using:

• Warm water + mild soap
• Or 70% alcohol wipes

Dry completely before reattaching.

2. Clean the Chestpiece Thoroughly

Remove:

• Diaphragm(s)
• Non-chill bell sleeve

Wipe everything with alcohol wipes and let dry.

3. Full Tubing Cleaning

Use:

• 70% alcohol wipes
• Or mild soap and water wipes

Optional:

A 2% bleach solution may be used on the tubing and chestpiece only.

Do NOT use bleach on the digital module.

Be aware: Exposure to bleach can cause tubing discoloration over time.

What NOT to Use on Your Littmann CORE (Important)

To prevent irreversible damage:

Never:

• Immerse any part of the stethoscope in liquid
• Autoclave or steam-sterilize the device
• Use high-pressure sterilization
• Use acetone, hand sanitizer gel, or harsh chemicals
• Expose the stethoscope to extreme heat or prolonged sunlight
• Use alcohol sprays on the digital module (wipes only)

Digital components and sensitive PVC tubing cannot tolerate harsh conditions and may warp, crack, or fail.

Moisture & Liquid Precautions (Digital Module Safety)

The Eko CORE digital attachment contains sensitive electronics.

To protect the module:

• Only use alcohol wipes, never pour liquid onto the device
• Avoid moisture entering the USB charging port
• Do not clean while plugged in
• Ensure the module is completely dry before charging
• Avoid storing it near humidifiers or damp surfaces

If liquid enters the digital attachment, discontinue use and contact support.

Maintenance Tips for Maximizing Lifespan

To keep your Littmann CORE functioning at its best:

• Clean after every patient for infection control
• Keep away from skin oils (these harden PVC tubing)
• Avoid wearing around the neck on bare skin
• Store in a case or hang it when not in use
• Never force eartips or diaphragm parts
• Replace worn eartips or tubing when needed

Consistent, gentle care dramatically extends the life of both acoustic and digital components.

How to Protect the Digital Module

The CORE digital attachment is durable but requires mindful care.

Protect it by:

• Wiping ONLY with 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes
• Avoiding heavy pressure on the volume/power buttons
• Keeping it away from solvents, oils, and hand sanitizer
• Storing it away from sharp objects that could scratch the casing
• Avoid magnetized surfaces
• Preventing drops or impact

If the module becomes loose or needs cleaning underneath, it can be removed, but only when necessary.

Maintaining the Chestpiece & Tubing Over Time

Why Tubing Hardens

Littmann tubing is made of PVC, which naturally stiffens when exposed repeatedly to:

• Skin oils
• Heat
• Sunlight
• Solvents

To prevent this:

• Wear your stethoscope over a collar, not directly on your skin
• Store away from heaters, dashboard sunlight, and radiators
• Avoid contact with printed materials (may stain tubing)

Infection Control Tips for Clinical Use

• Disinfect between every patient
• Do not use cloth towels, use single-use wipes
• Avoid touching the diaphragm with gloved hands covered in gel/chemicals
• Store the stethoscope in a clean, dry location
• Never use shared stethoscopes without disinfecting first

Proper infection control keeps both clinicians and patients safe.

How to Properly Store Your Littmann CORE

Correct storage extends the life of both the acoustic and digital components.

Store your CORE:

• In a protective case or drawer
• Away from direct sunglight
• Away from extreme temperatures
• Off the floor and away from spills
• With the tubing loosely coiled (not bent sharply)

Avoid storing with pens, markers, or printed materials, they can stain the tubing permanently.

Cleaning & Care FAQ

Do I need to remove the digital attachment to clean my CORE?
Usually, no. Under normal conditions, you can clean everything with the attachment in place. Remove only if deeper cleaning is needed.

Can I remove the eartips?
Yes. They are intentionally snug for safety. Pull firmly to remove and snap tightly back into palce.

Can I immerse the stethoscope in water to disinfect it?
Never. Immersion can permanently damage the digital module and tubing.

What disinfectants are safe to use?
Only 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes are approved for the digital module. The tubing and chestpiece may also be cleaned with mild soap and water wipes, or (optionally) a 2% bleach solution.

Why is my tubing stiff?
PVC tubing stiffens when exposed to skin oils. Wear the stethoscope over a collar to prevent direct contact.

Are replacement parts available?
Yes. Eartips, rims, diaphragms, and other components can be purchased.

Can bleach damage my stethoscope?
Bleach may discolor tubing and should ONLY be used for disinfection of the tubing, bell, or chestpiece, never the digital module.

How often should I clean my Littmann CORE?
Disinfect between every patient, and perform a deeper cleaning weekly.