The container (3) has a main portion which is provided for the supply of sterilizing medium from the interior (2) of the autoclave (1) in which the container is mounted. An upper portion (6) is provided for supplying liquids for external and internal cleaning of the medical or dental instruments (8) in the container. A lower portion (7) is provided for removal of liquids for external and internal cleaning of medical or dental instruments and/or the sterilizing medium from the container. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) autoclave； and (2) method for hygienic cleaning of medical or dental instruments.
