Short Answer 
The process of using a three-compartment sink involves three steps: cleaning, rinsing, and sanitizing. First, dishes are cleaned with soap and water to remove debris, then rinsed with clean water to eliminate soap residue, and finally soaked in a sanitizing solution to kill any remaining microbes before air drying.
Step 1: Cleaning
The first step in using a three-compartment sink is to clean the dishes or utensils. This involves washing items with soap and water to remove visible food debris, grease, and dirt. By thoroughly cleaning, you effectively reduce the number of bacteria present. Ensure you:
- Use a suitable detergent.
- Scrub all surfaces to dislodge contaminants.
- Focus on items with heavy food residues.
Step 2: Rinsing
After the cleaning step, the next phase is rinsing the items. This step is crucial for removing any leftover soap and residue, which can hinder the sanitization process. Make sure to rinse each item under clean water to prepare for the final sanitization step. During rinsing, you should:
- Use a steady flow of warm water.
- Ensure the entire surface is rinsed.
- Inspect for any remaining food particles.
Step 3: Sanitizing
The final step is sanitizing the cleaned and rinsed items to kill any remaining microbes. This is typically achieved by soaking the items in a sanitizing solution according to the product’s instructions. Proper sanitization is essential for food safety, so complete the following actions:
- Prepare the sanitizing solution with approved disinfectants.
- Follow soaking times as indicated on the product label.
- Allow items to air dry completely after sanitization.