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Cleaning the forehead and cheek rests on the phoropter is crucial for maintaining a hygienic environment in an eye care setting. The recommended method of using soap and water, combined with soaking in alcohol or boiling, ensures that the surfaces are not only cleaned of debris but also disinfected effectively. Soap and water help to remove dirt and organic material, while alcohol is effective in killing many types of germs and bacteria.

Using disinfectant wipes only may not ensure thorough cleaning, as they might not remove all organic matter before disinfection. Acetone wash is too harsh and can damage the materials of the phoropter. Meanwhile, a diluted bleach solution, while effective as a disinfectant, may also be too corrosive or damaging for the surfaces of the phoropter if not used properly.

Thus, the combination of soap and water with either alcohol treatment or boiling is the most effective, safe, and appropriate approach to cleaning these critical contact surfaces in a phoropter.