New instruments arriving in their original packaging complete with operating instructions, as well as instruments received from repair, must be entered into the CSSD system as soon as possible and removed from their transport packaging before storage and/or use. All protective caps and protective film must be removed. New and repaired instruments must undergo the same reprocessing process as used instruments before first use. A cleaning step is always necessary, as residues left on the instruments, such as from packaging materials or sterilization care products, can cause stains and deposits. The cleaning result must be verified visually. Upon inspection, the instruments must appear clean. New instruments with a thin passive layer may be more sensitive to reprocessing conditions than older, used instruments. New instruments and instruments received from repair must be stored only in dry rooms or cabinets at room temperature. Otherwise, for example, due to temperature fluctuations, condensation may form inside the plastic packaging, which can cause corrosion damage. Never store instruments near chemicals that, due to their components, may release corrosive vapors (e.g., active chlorine). To prevent damage, microsurgical instruments should be mounted in special racks or fixtures during initial reprocessing. Flexible instruments should be stored in their original packaging in a cool, dark, and dry place. When storing, keep in mind that flexible rubber and latex instruments, regardless of their use, also age during storage. The working parts of respiratory systems often contain valves or membranes, which can stick together during long-term storage. The functionality of these valves and membranes must be checked before use.