Understanding the Key Features and Benefits of Mechanical Cleaning Tools: Ultrasonic Baths, Water Guns, and Washer-Disinfectors

By William Leiva

Mechanical cleaning is a critical step in the decontamination process of reusable medical devices.^1,2 Standards, guidelines, and standard operating procedures require proper cleaning to ensure the removal of visible debris and to prepare instruments for effective disinfection and sterilization.^3-5 Mechanical cleaning tools are designed to make this process safer, faster, and more consistent. Understanding the features, benefits, and correct use of each tool is essential for maintaining safety and compliance in healthcare and laboratory settings.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify key types of mechanical cleaning tools and describe their main features and functions.
2. Explain the benefits and limitations of each mechanical cleaning method.
3. Demonstrate the safe and effective use of mechanical cleaning tools.

About the Author

William Leiva, MBA, MPH, Senior Program Manager for Sterile Reprocessing, Medtronic

Willliam Leiva is currently a Subject Matter Expert on Medical Devices Sterilization and Reprocessing and is currently the Senior Program Manager for Sterile Reprocessing with Medtronic. He holds undergraduate degrees in physics and engineering and master’s degrees in business administration and public health, where he focused his research on infection prevention strategies involving medical device reprocessing. He is currently a candidate for a Ph.D. in Cybernetics and Econometrics, researching around the economic impact of the burden of premature mortality. He has published peer review articles on the application of 3D printing technologies for medical devices and for austere environments.