The removal of foreign material from objects by using water and detergents or enzymatic products is called what?

• A. Decontamination
• B. Cleaning
• C. Disinfection
• D. Sterilization

Answer: (B)

Cleaning is the process described here. It focuses on physically removing dirt, soils, and organic material from surfaces or objects using water and detergents, with enzymatic cleaners helping break down organic residues so they’re easier to rinse away. This step is distinct from decontamination, which is a broader idea that aims to reduce microbial burden; disinfection targets pathogens after cleaning, and sterilization aims to eliminate all forms of microbial life. Because soil can shield microbes and interfere with disinfectants, cleaning first makes any subsequent disinfection or sterilization more effective.