What is the first step in the cleaning and sanitizing process?

The first step in the cleaning and sanitizing process is to remove any loose material. This is essential because effective cleaning cannot occur if debris, food particles, or dirt are still present on the surface. By removing these substances, the surface can be more easily cleaned and sanitized. Cleaning solutions and sanitizers work best on clean, unobstructed surfaces, so this initial step sets the groundwork for the subsequent cleaning and sanitizing actions.

After removing loose material, the cleaning step would typically involve scrubbing surfaces with soap or a cleaning solution to eliminate any remaining soil. Once the surface is cleaned, rinsing and sanitizing can occur to ensure it is safe to use. The process must follow a specific sequence for optimal results, making the removal of loose material a fundamental first step.