A method for disinfecting a microtome cryostat (1) comprises a defrosting phase (11), provision (13) of a vaporous disinfection agent (2) which acts upon the closed cryostat chamber (3) and a period of time (14) during which said disinfection agent (2) acts, and having an associated device for carrying out the method. According to the invention, fast and effective disinfection and rapid restarting of a microtome cryostat (1) is possible with secure drying, the temperature difference (ΔT1, ΔT2) being produced after the period of time (14) in the cryostat chamber (3) whereupon the precipitated disinfection agent (2) is removed (18) to a cold area.
