Which of the following is NOT a step in disinfecting tools?

Soaking tools in bleach is not considered a necessary step in the standard disinfecting process for tools in a cosmetology setting. The primary purpose of disinfection is to eliminate harmful microorganisms from surfaces and tools used in beauty services.

The steps involved in effective disinfection typically include first removing hair and debris from tools, which allows disinfectants to properly contact the surfaces. After that, tools are usually soaked in an appropriate disinfectant solution according to the manufacturer's instructions, which is essential in effectively reducing the bacterial load. Following disinfection, tools should be rinsed with water to remove any residual chemicals that could be harmful or irritating to clients.

While bleach can be effective as a disinfectant in certain scenarios, it is not the preferred or common method for soaking tools due to its corrosive nature and potential for damaging tools over time. Many salons opt for EPA-registered disinfectants that are specifically formulated for cosmetological tools for better efficacy and safety.