What are the steps in proper three-compartment sink cleaning?

The correct sequence for the steps in proper three-compartment sink cleaning is pre-wash, wash, rinse, sanitize, and air-dry.

This method ensures that all food residue and contaminants are thoroughly removed before sanitizing. The pre-wash step helps to rinse off any large food particles or debris, making the subsequent washing step more effective. The wash step involves using a soap solution that helps to break down grease and grime. After washing, rinsing is essential to ensure that any soap or cleaning agents are completely removed from the dishes or utensils. The sanitizing step kills any remaining pathogens, which is crucial for food safety. Finally, air-drying is important because it prevents the recontamination of the clean items, as drying them with cloths can introduce new bacteria.

The other options do not follow this established procedure. For example, soaking is not a standard step in the three-compartment cleaning process and could lead to ineffective sanitization. Each step's proper order is vital to ensure cleanliness and safety when handling equipment and dishes in a food service environment.