Here are some of the basic steps for effective handwashing1
- Wet your hands with clean running water, either warm or cold.
- Apply soap to your hands, preferably liquid soap.
- Rub your hands together to create a lather. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to get between your fingers, under your nails, the back of your hands, and your wrist.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean running water.
- Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dryer. If possible, use a paper towel to dry your hands and avoid touching doorknobs or other surfaces after washing your hands.
It’s important to wash your hands frequently, especially before and after preparing food, before eating, after using the bathroom, after coughing and sneezing, and after touching public surfaces. In addition to hand washing, using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol can be effective in preventing the spread of germs.2
Handwashing is a simple and effective way to prevent the spread of diseases. By following proper hand hygiene techniques, we can protect ourselves and those around us. Remember, wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds, and stay safe and healthy!
1, 2 https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/personal-hygiene/hands.html
