when must the sanitizing step occur

The sanitizing step must occur after rinsing when cleaning and sanitizing in processes like using a three-compartment sink. This ensures that all visible soil and detergent residues are removed first, allowing the sanitizer to effectively kill any remaining bacteria. Specifically, the order is: cleaning (washing with detergent and water), then rinsing with clean water to remove detergent, followed immediately by sanitizing to reduce microorganisms to safe levels. The sanitizing step is critical and is the final treatment before items are dried or reused. This sequence is important to prevent neutralization of the sanitizer and to achieve proper hygiene.