Sanitization is a multi-step process and can typically be divided into several common stages:
- Preparation: Removal of unnecessary material and provision of cleaning and disinfecting agents.
- Cleaning: Thorough removal of dirt and organic materials from surfaces.
- Rinsing: Removal of cleaning agent residues by thorough rinsing.
- Disinfection: Application of disinfectants to kill remaining microorganisms; in cold sanitization, chemical agents are used at low temperatures.
- Inspection and Documentation: Verification of the sanitization process and documentation of all measures to ensure hygiene standards.
The differences between hot and cold sanitization lie in the temperature range and the method of microorganism reduction:
- Hot sanitization uses temperatures between 80-90°C, such as hot water or steam, to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but it is energy-intensive and can cause material wear.
- Cold sanitization uses chemical agents at low temperatures, ideal for temperature-sensitive materials, but requires careful selection and handling of chemicals.