How To Properly And Thoroughly Wash Your Hands

Why is Handwashing Important?

Handwashing is essential for both personal health and safety and in preventing the spread of disease and infection. Regular and thorough handwashing is one of the most effective ways to keep germs and bacteria from spreading from one person to another. It is especially important as we enter into the cold and flu season, and we need to be extra careful in avoiding the spread of germs.

Handwashing is also important for preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses. By washing your hands before and after preparing, eating, and serving food, you can reduce the risk of getting food poisoning and spreading germs to others.

When Should You Wash Your Hands?

It is important to wash your hands at the following times:

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating food
• Before and after caring for someone who is sick
• Before and after treating a cut or wound
• After using the toilet
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
• After handling pet food or pet treats
• After touching garbage

How to Properly Wash Your Hands

To wash your hands properly, follow these steps:

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Additional Tips for Handwashing

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when washing your hands:

• Use soap and tap water, not just water alone.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Keep your fingernails short to reduce hidden dirt and germs.
• Use a fresh paper towel or air dryer to dry your hands.

Conclusion

Proper and frequent handwashing is one of the most important measures you can take to help protect yourself and others from getting sick. It is important to wash your hands throughout the day, especially after using the bathroom, before and after eating, and after touching animals or their food. Following the steps outlined above will help ensure that your hands are properly and thoroughly washed.