After cleaning combs and brushes, what is the purpose of air-drying?

• A. To rinse off the disinfectant with water.
• B. To allow the surface to dry completely after disinfection.
• C. To stop disinfection immediately.
• D. To add another layer of disinfectant.

Answer: (B)

Air-drying is about letting the surface dry completely so the disinfectant can stay on and work for its required contact time. If the surface remains wet, the disinfectant can be diluted or washed away, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leaving microbes behind. Rinsing would remove the disinfectant entirely, stopping its work; stopping disinfection early undercuts the process; and adding another layer isn’t part of the proper sequence and can leave residue. Following the product label’s contact time, let the combs and brushes air-dry fully before use or storage.