Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety
The core distinctions
Every infection-control question turns on one idea: match the process to the object and the risk. Cleaning (soap and water, removing visible debris) always comes first, because disinfectant cannot penetrate soil. Sanitizing reduces bacteria to a safe public-health level and applies to surfaces and implements that contact intact skin. Disinfection destroys most pathogens on nonporous implements and is the standard for reusable metal tools, using an EPA-registered hospital-strength disinfectant mixed and timed exactly per label (often 10 minutes). Sterilization destroys all microbial life, including spores, and is required for anything that contacted blood or broken skin.
Traps to watch
Questions love to swap "disinfect" and "sterilize," or to imply a disinfectant works instantly. Follow the label contact time and never top off a jar with fresh solution instead of replacing it. Porous items (wooden sticks, cotton, emery boards, buffer blocks) are single-use and cannot be disinfected. Puncturing the skin with a metal pusher or nipper can make it a blood-exposure item.
Hand hygiene and safety
Wash hands before and after each client and between glove changes; gloves do not replace handwashing. Blood spills require gloves, a sharps container for contaminated sharps, and an EPA-registered tuberculocidal disinfectant. Know Material Safety Data Sheet/ Safety Data Sheet access, ventilation for vapors, and safe storage of flammables.
Rule of thumb
Ask: Did it touch intact skin only, or did it touch blood/broken skin? Intact skin and surfaces → clean then sanitize/disinfect. Blood or broken skin → sterilize or discard. Single-use porous item → discard, always.