Before autoclaving, be sure to thoroughly rinse off any trace of chemicals or detergents. Include a final rinse with distilled water. Always use minimum temperatures and cycle times. DO NOT exceed 121 degrees C/15 psig (1.03 bar). After repeated autoclaving, Nalgene Polycarbonate labware will show some loss of mechanical strength. Nalgene Polycarbonate labware can also be gas or chemically sterilized, but it should NEVER be dry heat sterilized.
NOTE: Before autoclaving, just set cap or closure on top of the container without engaging the threads.
Autoclaving instructions may also be found here.