Last week’s episode ended with a cliffhanger, we promised more on the critical parameters for detergent selection, sustainability, and the science of cleaning, how instrument chemistries are formulated for safety and effectiveness, and which cycles are best for automated cleaning.

Daytime TV serials are often called “soap operas” because laundry and dish detergent manufacturers have long been sponsors. The “opera” part is full of drama, passion, a plot where pressure is applied to force a decision, one which the victim was sorry to have agreed to in the first place. Just as “soap operas” use persuasive words, exaggerated statements, and even threats, to cancel out sound judgment or scientific principles...

Cleaning is the critical first step that can make or break the efficacy of instrument reprocessing. Yet, we’re reminded again and again of the ways cleaning can go off the rails. Today we’re sharing a true story of the SPD, with a side-by-side comparison that demonstrates the concept of “Caveat emptor,” also known as “Let the buyer beware.”...

While some would say that all instrument cleaners are more or less the same, in reality the products you choose can be as different as using a mallet or a brush to uncover ancient pottery...