Start by immediately rinsing scissors with warm, distilled water after use to remove blood and organic material, then submerge them in enzymatic cleaning solution or neutral pH detergent for 10 minutes. After ultrasonic cleaning or manual brushing with soft nylon brushes, rinse thoroughly and dry completely, then lubricate the pivot point with surgical instrument lubricant—never using industrial oils—before autoclaving in an open position to ensure proper steam sterilization penetration.