3 Ways on How to Properly Wash Your Hands

3 Ways on How to Properly Wash Your Hands

One of the best strategies to stop the spread of germs and lower the chance of getting sick or infected is to wash your hands properly. Even though washing your hands might seem easy, doing it correctly is crucial to ensuring maximum effectiveness. Here are three essential steps for doing a thorough hand wash:

1. Wet Your Hands with Clean, Running Water: The first step in proper handwashing is to wet your hands with clean, running water. Turn on the tap and allow the water to flow over your hands, ensuring that both the front and back of your hands get thoroughly wet. Avoid using standing water or stagnant sources, as they may harbor bacteria and contaminants. The temperature of the water does not significantly affect the effectiveness of handwashing, so use water that is comfortable for you.
2. Apply Soap and Lather Well: Once your hands are wet, apply an adequate amount of soap to your hands. Use enough soap to cover all surfaces of your hands, including the palms, backs of the hands, fingers, and under the nails. Lathering the soap creates friction, which helps lift dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the skin. Rub your hands together vigorously, making sure to scrub all areas for at least 20 seconds. Pay particular attention to areas that are often overlooked, such as the fingertips, thumbs, and between the fingers. Consider singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice in your head to ensure that you wash for the recommended duration.
3. Rinse Thoroughly and Dry Completely: After lathering and scrubbing your hands, rinse them thoroughly under clean, running water. Be sure to rinse away all traces of soap and loosened dirt and germs. Use your fingers to help remove soap from under your nails and between your fingers. Avoid recontaminating your hands by touching the faucet with your clean hands after rinsing. Once your hands are thoroughly rinsed, dry them completely using a clean towel or air dryer. Pat your hands dry rather than rubbing them, as rubbing can cause irritation and may spread germs.

In addition to these three key steps, there are some additional tips to keep in mind to ensure proper handwashing:

• Use Antibacterial Soap Sparingly: While antibacterial soap may be effective against certain types of bacteria, regular soap is generally sufficient for everyday handwashing. Using antibacterial soap excessively may contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and may not provide additional benefits over regular soap.
• Use Hand Sanitizer When Soap and Water Are Not Available: Hand sanitizer can be a convenient alternative to handwashing when soap and water are not readily available. Choose a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and apply enough sanitizer to cover all surfaces of your hands. Rub your hands together until they are dry, which typically takes about 20 seconds.
• Wash Your Hands Frequently: Make handwashing a regular part of your daily routine, especially before and after preparing food, eating, caring for someone who is ill, and after using the bathroom. Additionally, wash your hands after touching high-touch surfaces in public areas, such as doorknobs, handrails, and elevator buttons.

Proper handwashing is a simple yet powerful way to prevent the spread of illness and infection. By following these three key steps and incorporating handwashing into your daily routine, you can help protect yourself and others from harmful germs and contribute to a healthier environment overall.