Which chemical process occurs after cleaning and aims to reduce disease-causing germs on surfaces?

The process that occurs after cleaning to reduce disease-causing germs on surfaces is known as sanitizing. Sanitizing involves using chemical agents or heat to lower the number of germs on a surface to a safe level, as determined by public health standards. This step is crucial in preventing the spread of infections, especially in settings where hygiene is paramount, such as salons and spas.

Cleaning is the initial step that removes dirt, debris, and some germs but does not necessarily kill them. The primary goal of cleaning is to make surfaces visibly clean. While bactericidal and virucidal refer to chemicals that kill bacteria and viruses, respectively, these terms describe specific action types rather than the overall process aimed at reducing pathogens to acceptable levels without the primary focus on complete elimination. In summary, sanitizing is essential as it bridges the gap between cleaning and complete disinfection, creating safer environments by significantly reducing harmful microorganisms.