Sterilization is the only type of cleaning that will kill which of the following?

Sterilization is a process that destroys all forms of microbial life, including the most resistant types of microorganisms. Among the options provided, bacterial spores are particularly significant because they are highly resilient forms of bacteria that can survive extreme conditions, including heat, desiccation, and chemicals. This toughness makes them particularly difficult to eliminate using standard cleaning methods that may be effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

In a professional setting, such as in cosmetology, properly sterilizing tools and equipment is crucial to prevent the transmission of infections. While disinfectants can kill many types of germs, they may not effectively eradicate bacterial spores. Therefore, sterilization is uniquely necessary for ensuring that all spores are destroyed, thereby providing a higher level of safety and hygiene.