Artifacts of specimen handling and preparation can significantly impair examination of blood cells, but are easily avoided. The common artifacts stem mainly from either aging of sample (see age-related artifacts), or poor maintenance of the staining solutions (stain precipitate and water artifact). Diff-Quik®, Hemacolor®, and other commonly used quick stains for hematology and cytology can provide good staining quality if properly used and maintained: Keep tightly capped when not in use. This prevents evaporation, minimizes contamination of solutions, and prevents water from the air getting into the fixative. Do not "top-off" the solutions. When fluid level drops or staining quality declines, empty, clean, and dry the jars, then refill with fresh solution.