Which method is commonly used for sterilization?

Autoclaving is a widely recognized method for sterilization because it employs high-pressure steam to kill all forms of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and their spores. This process ensures that the items being sterilized are free from any viable pathogens, making it particularly effective for surgical instruments, laboratory equipment, and any items that must be sterile for safe use. The autoclave typically operates at temperatures of around 121°C to 134°C under pressure, which is sufficient to achieve sterilization.

In contrast, other methods listed do not achieve the level of sterilization necessary for clinical or laboratory settings. Washing with warm soap and water is effective for cleaning but does not guarantee the elimination of all microorganisms. Dry cleaning does not involve any sterilization processes and is geared more toward cleaning fabrics without water, while microwaving food, while it can kill some bacteria, does not consistently reach the temperatures or pressures required for thorough sterilization. Therefore, autoclaving stands out as the most reliable and commonly used method for achieving complete sterilization.