How do you deal with unpleasant co-workers?

Just keep any communication strictly work related.

I have a coworker I've mentioned more than once on here. Anti-vaxxer, flat-earther, everything's-a-hoaxer. I just smile and nod. That's all I can do without dissolving into a fit of hysterics. She makes really good chocolate chip cookies so this bridge must not burn.

Option D)
Don't talk to them even when they talk to you. Just blatantly ignore them.

they are assholes and need to know it, but be prepared to defend your stance, yet when you call them out don't be surprised that most around you will agree with you they are assholes.

usually im the unpleasant coworker

I threw a fork across a kitchen at one years ago, he bitched I irresponsibly nearly hit him not realising I was full on aiming for his face, just missed.

It depends on the worker and their personality. If you truly hate them so much it makes you sick to look at them then dont try to make a friend with them. Ive had coworkers that I HATE but I still got cool enough with them to where I could call them out on shit without a big fight. Like be like "Damn Pat you always go to the bathroom when the work gets here you're bullshittin." and laugh about it.

But then sometimes with some ppl I just completely ignore. Dont even make eye contact when I pass them.

I was a contract worker and often had permies with a chip on both shoulders! I'd ask them what their problem was and take it from there.