We recommend that surfaces are wiped down with RNase Zap® and disposable plasticware is used for all supplies and reagents that will contact RNA. Use RNase-free reagents and a fresh bottle of serum-free media for diluting RNA and lipids. Water can be made RNase free by treating with DEPC and autoclaving. Alternatively, you can purchase RNase-free reagents. If possible, dedicate a set of pipettes for RNA work and use barrier tips. Note that serum contains Rnases and will likely degrade your RNA very quickly.