Aseptic technique is a vital nursing skill to prevent the spread of infection during procedures, such as wound care or catheter insertion. It involves strict practices, such as hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintaining a sterile field. Mastering aseptic technique is essential for nursing students, and required for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), but as it is a multi-step process that may vary by organisation, some may find it challenging. An infection prevention and control lead nurse, a tissue viability nurse and an assistant professor in adult nursing advise on what students need to know, how to use simulation and clinical placements to build your competence, and how to adapt your practice in diverse clinical settings.