4. Cleaning: manual, ultrasonic and washer-disinfectors

Cleaning comes first

Sterilisation does not work through soil. Every reusable instrument needs a defined cleaning method that matches the IFU.

Washer-disinfectors (preferred where suitable)

A validated washer-disinfector (WD) gives a recorded, repeatable wash, rinse and thermal disinfection stage. Load according to the manufacturer: hinges open, lumens on the right adapters, no overlapping trays. Do not overload. Failed loads are rejected, recleaned and the failure recorded — they are not “good enough” because they look mostly clean.

Ultrasonic cleaners

Ultrasonics can help with hinged or intricate items as part of a process, not as a complete decontamination system on their own. Use the specified detergent, do not overload, and rinse afterwards. Foil or validated tests check that cavitation is still happening.

Manual cleaning — last resort, high risk

If you must use a sink (for example a device that cannot go in the WD): use a dedicated sink, heavy-duty gloves, apron and eye protection, the specified detergent, instruments below the waterline, and long-handled brushes. Inspect under good light. Damaged or corroded instruments should be quarantined.

Detergents

Use products intended for instrument cleaning. More concentrated is not better. Mix to the label and never mix chlorine and acid products.