1. Wet Your Hands:
* Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold). Avoid excessively hot water, as it can irritate the skin.
2. Apply Soap:
* Apply enough soap to cover all hand surfaces. Liquid, bar, or powdered soap is acceptable. Antibacterial soap isn't necessarily better than regular soap for routine handwashing.
3. Lather:
* Rub your hands together vigorously, creating a good lather. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Don't forget your thumbs!
4. Scrub:
* Continue rubbing and scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. This is the most crucial part! A helpful way to time yourself is to hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice from beginning to end.
5. Rinse:
* Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water. Make sure to remove all soap residue.
6. Dry:
* Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them. If using a public restroom, it's preferable to use a paper towel.
7. Turn off the Faucet (Optional):
* If you are in a public restroom, use a paper towel to turn off the faucet after drying your hands to avoid re-contamination.
Key Points and Considerations:
* When to Wash: Wash your hands frequently, especially:
* Before, during, and after preparing food.
* Before eating.
* After using the toilet.
* After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
* After touching garbage.
* After touching animals or animal waste.
* Before and after treating a wound or caring for someone who is sick.
* Anytime your hands look or feel dirty.
* Hand Sanitizer: If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Apply it to all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until dry. Hand sanitizer is not as effective as soap and water when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.
* Proper Technique is Key: It's not just *that* you wash, but *how* you wash that makes a difference. The 20-second scrub and covering all surfaces are vital.
* Skin Care: Frequent handwashing can dry out your skin. Use a moisturizer regularly to prevent cracking and irritation.
* Nail Hygiene: Keep nails short and clean. Dirt and bacteria can easily accumulate under long nails.
Following these steps consistently is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and stay healthy!