Before tools can be sterilized, they must be properly cleaned. This involves several steps:
1. Pre-cleaning: Remove visible debris and organic material from the tools using a brush or cloth. 2. Cleaning: Use a detergent solution to clean the tools thoroughly. Ultrasonic cleaners can also be used for effective cleaning. 3. Rinsing: Rinse the instruments with distilled water to remove any detergent residue. 4. Drying: Dry the tools completely to prevent rusting and ensure effective sterilization.