HBSS (Hanks’ Balanced Salt Solution) is a balanced salt solution used to wash cells, transport tissue, and maintain cells at the right pH and osmolarity during handling. Developed by John Hanks, it is designed to work in ambient air rather than a CO2 incubator, which makes it convenient for benchtop work. This guide explains what HBSS is, what is in it, what it is used for, and how it compares with EBSS and PBS.
Key Facts
- Type: Balanced salt solution
- Buffering: Low bicarbonate (works in ambient air)
- Best for: Washing, transport, short-term handling
- Ca/Mg: Available with or without
What is HBSS?
HBSS is an isotonic salt solution that provides inorganic salts and glucose to keep cells viable during short-term handling. It is not a growth medium; it lacks the amino acids and vitamins cells need to divide, so it is used for washing, rinsing, and transport rather than for culture. A key feature is its low bicarbonate content, which lets it hold pH in normal air.
What is in HBSS?
A standard HBSS formulation contains:
- Inorganic salts (sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium chlorides and phosphates) for osmotic balance
- Glucose as an energy source during handling
- A low level of sodium bicarbonate, which is why HBSS suits use outside a CO2 incubator
- Often phenol red as a pH indicator
HBSS is available with or without calcium and magnesium; the calcium- and magnesium-free version is preferred before enzymatic detachment.
What is HBSS used for?
HBSS is commonly used to:
- Wash and rinse cells and tissue
- Transport or hold tissue and cells at a stable pH in air
- Dilute reagents and support dissociation protocols
HBSS vs. EBSS vs. PBS
HBSS and EBSS (Earle’s Balanced Salt Solution) are both balanced salt solutions, but they differ in bicarbonate content: EBSS has more bicarbonate and is designed for a CO2 incubator, while HBSS has less and works in air. PBS, by contrast, is a simpler phosphate-buffered saline without glucose. For a direct comparison, see our guide on EBSS vs HBSS, or read about PBS.
How to use and store HBSS
Use HBSS for washing, transport, and short-term handling, and choose the calcium- and magnesium-free version before enzymatic detachment. Keep it sterile, store as directed, and warm gently before use with live cells.
Order from PurMa Biologics
PurMa Biologics manufactures Hanks’ Balanced Salt Solution in the USA, with or without calcium and magnesium, each lot backed by a Certificate of Analysis. See our Hanks’ Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) or browse the full range of cell culture buffers. Questions or need a quote? Contact our team.
