The process of removing visible dirt and food particles is called cleaning. Cleaning involves physically getting rid of debris, dust, stains, and leftover food from surfaces, utensils, or the body. It is an important step in maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of germs, as it reduces the chance of contamination. Cleaning is usually done before disinfecting or sanitizing, because removing visible dirt allows disinfectants to work more effectively and keeps the environment safe and healthy.