A method and an apparatus are provided for cleaning, disinfecting, and/or sterilizing a device. The method comprises contacting an object with an obstructing substance such that the object is infiltrated with at least a portion of the obstructing substance. An absorptive and/or adsorptive capacity of the object is reduced by the obstructing substance. The object is contacted with a treatment agent after the capacity of the object is reduced. Infiltration of the object with the treatment agent is limited by the reduction of the capacity of the object.
