Cleaning & Disinfection for Home Tools — CDC Principles Applied

TL;DR

• Most home tools contacting intact skin are noncritical items per Spaulding → clean → low‑level disinfect → dry.
• Choose agents compatible with your material (steel vs polymer vs stone). Always follow product labels.

Spaulding classification (in brief)

• Critical: enters sterile tissue/bloodstream → sterilize (not applicable to typical home IASTM use).
• Semi‑critical: mucous membranes/non‑intact skin → high‑level disinfect.
• Noncritical: intact skin only → clean + low‑level disinfect (our typical case).

Cleaning workflow (every use)

1. Remove visible soil with mild soap and warm water; microfiber cloth works well.
2. Rinse and wipe dry.
3. Apply an EPA‑registered low‑level disinfectant (per label contact time).
4. Final dry; store protected from dust and humidity.

Disinfectant choice

• Check the label for organism claims and contact time.
• Avoid highly corrosive agents (e.g., strong chlorine) unless manufacturer confirms compatibility.
• Alcohol wipes (≥70% IPA) are convenient for steel; some polymers may haze—test a small area first.

Material compatibility

Stainless steel

• Non‑porous and durable; compatible with many low‑level disinfectants. Dry fully to prevent water spots and corrosion in harsh environments.

Polymer

• Lighter and comfortable. Some cleaners can cause haze or micro‑cracks—consult maker’s compatibility chart.

Stone (e.g., jade)

• Porous and harder to disinfect thoroughly; best reserved for single‑user/home use; avoid soaking.

Home vs clinic quick checklists

Home

• Clean → low‑level disinfect → dry → sleeve or case. Replace worn glide medium caps to avoid leaks.

Clinic/shared use

• Written cleaning SOP; compatible disinfectants; PPE; logs of cleaning cycles; staff training.

Storage & transport

• Use sleeves or cases to protect edges/finish. Keep away from humidity and direct heat.

FAQs

How often do I need to disinfect?

After each use if shared; for solo home use, clean every time and disinfect regularly or when soiled—follow your comfort and manufacturer guidance.

Can I use dishwashers or UV boxes?

Dishwashers can be harsh on polymers and edges; UV efficacy depends on unit and shadowing—follow manufacturer instructions.

Reference

• CDC Guideline for Disinfection & Sterilization (2008): https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/media/pdfs/guideline-disinfection-h.pdf