What type of brush is most suitable for cleaning a flexible endoscope?

A nylon brush is the most suitable type for cleaning a flexible endoscope due to its gentle yet effective bristles. The nylon material is soft enough to prevent scratching delicate surfaces of the endoscope while still being tough enough to remove debris and bioburden effectively. Flexible endoscopes are precision instruments that require careful attention during cleaning to maintain their functionality and longevity, and using a nylon brush helps ensure that the cleaning process minimizes the risk of damage.

In contrast, a metal brush can cause serious abrasions and damage to the endoscope's delicate surfaces and optics. Terry cloth washcloths may not provide the scrubbing action needed to clean internal channels effectively, and they can leave lint behind, which could be harmful. A scrubbie pad, while potentially effective for other cleaning tasks, may also be too abrasive for the sensitive materials used in flexible endoscopes. Therefore, a nylon brush strikes a balance between effective cleaning and protecting the equipment, making it the best choice for this purpose.