Final answer:
The time required for proper disinfection depends on various factors, including type and concentration of disinfectant, temperature, and the amount of organic matter present. The disinfectant's effectiveness is usually measured through tests like the Use-Dilution Test, which must show no microbial growth for the disinfectant to be considered effective.
Step-by-step explanation:
The length of time an object must soak in disinfectant solution to be properly disinfected depends on various factors including the type of disinfectant used, the microbes present, the concentration of the disinfectant, and the temperature at which it is used. Disinfectants are often compared to phenol in their effectiveness, as established historically. A Use-Dilution Test can provide a measure of the effectiveness of a disinfectant and should demonstrate no growth to indicate efficacy.
Higher concentrations and temperatures typically increase the effectiveness and reduce the necessary exposure time. Furthermore, clean conditions free of organic matter are crucial for effective disinfection. The decimal reduction time or D-value refers to the time it takes to reduce a microbial population by 90%, which can also be a factor in determining the time required. Lastly, two factors that can compromise the effectiveness of a disinfecting agent include the presence of organic matter and the initial number of microbes present.