How to Wash Your Hands Correctly

Keeping your hands clean through the use of proper hand hygiene is the most important step you can take to avoid illness and spreading germs to others. Germs can be picked up through coming into contact with any common surface, such as counter tops, desks, keyboards, animals, even other people. These germs can enter the body through the mouth, nose, eyes and ears.

The best way to prevent germs from entering the body is to use proper hand hygiene through washing your hands with soap and water and through the use of hand sanitizer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “…proper hand washing should be used when hands are visibly soiled.”

Let’s talk about how to properly wash your hands:

1. Wet your hands.
2. Apply soap, and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Pay particular attention to your fingertips, finger nails, and between your fingers.
3. Rinse with water and dry your hands with a disposable towel.
4. Use that same towel to turn off the faucet.

Your hands are now clean. It’s that easy.

The most common mistake with hand washing is spending too little time. So take your time and make sure you scrub your hands for the full 20 seconds.