Why open hinged instruments before sanitizing?

Preventing hinge erosion is not the primary reason for opening hinged instruments before sanitizing. While proper care can help maintain the longevity of the hinge, it does not directly address the need to clean the instrument effectively. Erosion is more related to wear over time rather than a sanitation concern.

Keeping edges sharp is not relevant to the process of sanitization. The sharpness of an instrument's edges is a characteristic that is primarily maintained through proper usage and maintenance, rather than sanitation protocols. Sanitizing focuses on removing contaminants rather than preserving sharpness.

While removing mineral deposits can be important for instrument maintenance, it is not the main focus of opening hinged instruments before sanitization. Mineral deposits typically accumulate over time and can be addressed through specific cleaning solutions rather than the act of opening the instrument itself.