Why is following the disinfectant's 'contact time' (also called dwell time) important?

Contact time (or dwell time) is the amount of time a disinfectant must remain wet on a surface to effectively kill the pathogens it claims to destroy, as stated on the product label. Wiping the disinfectant off too soon means the organisms may not be killed, leaving the tool unsafe. Cosmetologists must immerse or thoroughly wet tools and leave them for the full required time before rinsing and drying. Respecting contact time is essential for disinfection to actually work, and it is frequently tested.