Laboratory Supplies

Where to Buy Laboratory Supplies in the UK: Best Stores, Glassware Picks and Smart Buying Tips

Top places to buy laboratory supplies in the UK

Looking for reliable places to source laboratory supplies across the UK? Whether you’re equipping a university bench, a small start-up lab, or a home workshop that needs serious kit, the right supplier makes all the difference. Below I cover well-known specialists and general retailers that stock quality lab essentials — from glass beakers to pipettes, consumables, and safety kit — so you can compare options and shop with confidence.

Nordic Nest — stylish glassware and vintage-inspired beakers

Nordic Nest might surprise you if you think of lab stores only in white coats and fume hoods. They often stock decorative and functional glassware like the La Rochère beaker range, which captures a classic beaker look while fitting into kitchens or creative workspaces. For example, La Rochère beakers often come in sizes around 8 fl oz and 10 fl oz, perfect for mixing or serving while maintaining that scientific aesthetic.

Fisher Scientific (Thermo Fisher) — full-service lab supplier

Fisher Scientific is one of the go-to suppliers for professional laboratories across the UK. They offer everything from precision instruments and chemical reagents to disposable consumables. If you need certified, traceable products for regulated work, this is a sensible first stop. Their catalogue covers both small bench items and large equipment, and they often provide technical datasheets so you can check compatibility before you buy.

VWR / Avantor — industrial and academic lab essentials

VWR (now part of Avantor) supplies educational institutions, industry labs, and research centres. Expect broad coverage: glassware, centrifuges, filtration systems, and specialist chemicals. They’re strong on bulk ordering and can help source replacement parts for equipment — handy if you want continuity in long-term projects.

Cole-Parmer UK — instruments, pumps, and measurement tools

Cole-Parmer is a great choice when your priority is instruments: peristaltic pumps, meters, and controllers. Their focus is on tools that measure, control, and repeat processes reliably. If your work requires flow control, titration setups, or accurate temperature and pH data (expressed in the units your protocols use), Cole-Parmer has a reputation for solid kit.

Scientific Laboratory Supplies (SLS) — price-conscious academic buying

SLS often appeals to university departments and teaching labs for a reason: they balance cost and quality for bulk consumables. From plasticware and disposable pipette tips to basic glassware, SLS helps stretch departmental budgets without forcing major compromises. They’re one to check when you need reliable consumables in higher volumes.

RS Components — lab consumables plus electronics

RS Components combines lab supplies with an electronics and engineering catalogue. If your project blends bench chemistry with hardware — think sensors, controllers, and DIY automation — RS is very convenient. You’ll find clamps, racks, measurement devices, and electrical parts under one roof, which saves time when building or prototyping lab setups.

LabFriend and specialist independent retailers

LabFriend and similar niche suppliers focus on specialized consumables and hard-to-find items. When a standard catalogue can’t meet your requirement, independents often step in with bespoke parts or guidance. They’re useful for older instrument parts, specialty glassware, and one-off items where curated knowledge matters more than bulk discounts.

Amazon UK and large online marketplaces

Amazon UK and other marketplaces are handy for quick replacements and everyday bench items. You’ll find an enormous range — from lab coats and disposable gloves to inexpensive glassware. The caveat: quality varies, so check seller ratings and product specifications carefully. For non-regulated applications and hobby labs, marketplaces can be a time-saver.

Essential lab glassware and what to look for

Glassware is the backbone of many labs. Choosing the right type of glass depends on use: heating, storage, or precise volume measurement. Let’s break down what to look for so you don’t end up with a set that cracks under routine use.

Beakers — everyday workhorses (example: La Rochère beakers)

Beakers are versatile: stirring, mixing, and rough volume work. The La Rochère beakers you’ll find at lifestyle retailers often mimic classic lab beaker shapes and are sold in sizes around 8 fl oz and 10 fl oz. For scientific work, opt for borosilicate glass when you need thermal and chemical resistance; for decorative or light-duty use, soda-lime glass may be acceptable.

Flasks — volumetric and Erlenmeyer styles

Flasks are for controlled mixing, titration, and heating. Volumetric flasks deliver exact volumes and are ideal for standard solutions, while Erlenmeyer flasks are useful for mixing without splashes thanks to their tapered neck. If your protocols require precision, look for glassware engraved with calibration marks that are traceable and accurate.

Pipettes and dispensers — accuracy matters

Pipettes are where accuracy counts the most. Mechanical or electronic pipettes with verified calibration reduce variability in experiments. For routine liquid handling, match pipette tip brands to the pipettes to avoid leaks and inconsistent volumes. If you’re buying for a teaching lab, consider adjustable-volume pipettes that cover a broad range to reduce costs.

Consumables and PPE every lab should stock

Consumables and PPE keep both people and experiments safe. Good practice is to budget for steady resupply; these aren’t one-off buys. Below are the categories to prioritize.

Disposable items: tips, tubes, and wipes

Disposable plastics like pipette tips, microtubes, and centrifuge tubes are inexpensive but crucial. Always check compatibility (autoclavable, sterile options) and the maximum volume in fl oz or fraction of an ounce when assessing tubes. Bulk buys save money, but ensure storage conditions prevent contamination.

Personal protective equipment — gloves, goggles, and coats

PPE protects you and prevents sample contamination. Choose gloves compatible with the chemicals you handle; for many labs, nitrile is a common choice. Safety goggles that meet recognised standards are non-negotiable when handling reactive substances, and lab coats are useful insurance against spills. Think of PPE as insurance: cheap to buy, priceless if something goes wrong.

How to compare prices and quality across suppliers

Price is important, but quality and support often matter more in the long run. A low-cost centrifuge that fails mid-project ends up costing time and money. Here’s how to compare effectively.

Look for datasheets, certifications, and user reviews

Datasheets list materials, tolerances, and operating limits — use them. Certifications (like CE marking across Europe) and traceable calibration certificates for instruments should influence higher-value purchases. Also, read user reviews and case studies: they reveal real-world reliability beyond marketing claims.

Buying used vs new: when to pick which

Buying used equipment can be brilliant for centrifuges or incubators if you get a verified service history and warranty. New gear is better for critical instruments where calibration and certification matter. Treat used purchases like a car: full service history and a test run before finalising the deal.

Tips for outfitting a small lab on a budget

Starting small? You can still build a functional, safe lab without overspending. It’s all about prioritising essentials and leveraging smart buying strategies.

Prioritise core equipment and buy consumables in bulk

Begin with essentials: a reliable balance, a set of pipettes, glassware, and basic PPE. Buy consumables like gloves and tips in larger boxes to reduce unit cost — they’ll be your longest-running expense. For instruments, rent or lease when possible to reduce upfront capital outlay.

Negotiate bulk discounts and look for academic pricing

Many suppliers offer discounts for bulk orders or educational institutions. Don’t be shy about asking for quotes and price breaks — vendors expect to negotiate for larger orders. For teaching labs or multiple departments, combining orders can unlock better pricing.

Maintaining glassware and extending equipment life

Care and cleaning pay off. Proper maintenance extends the life of glassware, reduces downtime, and keeps results consistent. Think of maintenance like tuning an instrument; a little effort keeps things in tune.

Cleaning, storage, and basic repairs

Rinse glassware promptly after use and avoid harsh, incompatible cleaners. Store items upright on racks to avoid chips, and replace items with hairline cracks — those are accident waiting to happen. For instruments, keep service schedules and replace seals and belts as recommended.

Where to find specialist services in the UK

Beyond suppliers, you’ll need calibration and repair services sometimes. Many major vendors partner with certified service providers. If you deal with regulated work, seek providers who can supply traceable certificates for measurements in the units your protocols require.

Calibration, validation, and technical support

Calibration services keep your instruments trustworthy. Look for providers that issue traceable calibration certificates and can perform on-site or couriered calibrations. Technical support is gold: choose vendors who offer fast response times and clear escalation paths when something fails.

Choosing the right store for your needs

So, how do you pick among all these options? It comes down to three things: the level of technical support you need, whether you require certified products, and your budget. If your work demands traceability and strict standards, go with specialist suppliers. If you’re outfitting a hobby lab or a café-style demo bench, lifestyle retailers and marketplaces can cover many items.

Mix and match — it’s often the best approach

Most labs use a hybrid buying strategy: specialist suppliers for critical items and marketplaces for consumables or decorative glass that doesn’t need certification. This keeps costs sensible while ensuring reliability where it matters most.

Final checklist before you buy

Before you click “purchase,” run through a quick checklist: Is the material compatible with your chemicals? Is the size listed in familiar units like fluid ounces or inches? Does the supplier provide technical specs and a clear return option if something arrives damaged? Are calibration or certification documents available for instruments? A short checklist saves a lot of hassle.

Now you’re ready to shop smarter. Whether you pick up a charming 8 fl oz La Rochère beaker from a lifestyle retailer for your creative bench or source certified glassware and instruments from Fisher Scientific, the UK market has options to match your needs and budget.

Conclusion: Finding the right blend of suppliers and products will keep your lab running efficiently and safely. Prioritise certified kit for critical work, use marketplaces for everyday consumables, and don’t overlook independent specialists for one-off or bespoke needs. With these tips, you’ll make wise purchases and stretch your budget without sacrificing performance.