Bacteria and viruses can spread when a sick person sneezes, coughs, and talks within close proximity to you. You can also get sick when you touch germ-infected surfaces. Hand washing is a simple, 20-second process that can keep you healthy and prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Why is washing my hands important?

Washing your hands is an important and simple way to keep yourself healthy and prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses such as colds, flu, and possibly even coronavirus, COVID-19.

How does a virus on my hands lead to an infection in my body?

Any viruses on your hands can get into your body when you rub your eyes or touch your nose or mouth through mucous membranes in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Consider all the objects you touch every day: doorknobs, elevator buttons, door handles, ATMs, touchscreens, your cellphone (and all the surfaces it has touched) are just a few examples. Any viruses that can survive on these surfaces may be transferred to your hands when you touch these objects. According to the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, it is estimated that people touch their faces at least 23 times an hour.

This is why washing your hands is so important.

Different types of handwashing

There are many types of handwashing, including:

Routine handwashing: This is the most common and basic type of handwashing that should be done regularly to maintain good hygiene. This involves washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. The purpose of routine handwashing is to eliminate dirt, grime, and bacteria that can accumulate on the hands from everyday activities.

Antimicrobial handwashing: This type of handwashing involves using soap with antimicrobial agents such as triclosan and chlorhexidine to kill bacteria. Antimicrobial handwashing is used frequently in healthcare, food handling, and other industries that are at high risk of bacterial transmission.

Surgical handwashing: This type of handwashing is a thorough and precise hand washing technique that healthcare professionals use to clean their hands. It requires a longer washing time and a specific technique for hand washing to ensure that the hands are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Hygienic handwashing - This type of handwashing is similar to regular handwashing but also involves other measures to keep hands clean and hygienic. This may include using hand sanitizer, wearing gloves, and avoiding touching surfaces that may be contaminated.

What's the proper technique for washing my hands?

To prevent the spread of illnesses, there are only a few simple hand hygiene steps to clean your hands thoroughly. These are the steps:

Wet your hands under clean running water (warm or cold).

Use soap to lather your hands. Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Silently "singing" the birthday song twice is an easy-to-remember 20-second timer tool. Wash your wrists, the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails.

Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean running water.

Turn off the water with your elbow.

Use a towel to dry your hands or air dry them.

If you use a towel to dry your hands, use the same towel to open the bathroom door to leave the room. Discard the towel in a wastebasket.

Note: Alcohol rubs are better and easier for young children to use because they lack the coordination for good handwashing techniques. Only use alcohol-based hand sanitizers under adult supervision and keep these products out of reach of children.

Are there any dangers from washing my hands too often?

You should be careful about how often you wash your hands if you have a lot of cracks in the skin on your hands or have dry or chapped hands. Washing your hands too often or using these hand sanitizers can strip your hands of healthy oils. Germs can also more easily enter your body through skin that is not intact. Apply a moisturizing lotion or cream to damp hands to combat this condition.

Red or raw skin, flaky skin, or itching are all signs that you're washing your hands too often. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns that you may be overwashing your hands.

When should I wash my hands?

Wash your hands:

Whenever they look dirty.

Before, during, and after you prepare food.

Before eating.

Before and after contact with an ill person.

Before and after you treat a cut, sore, or wound.

After using the toilet or changing diapers.

After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. (Wash your hands more often when you are sick to prevent spreading your sickness to those around you.)

After touching animals or animal waste.

After touching garbage, body fluids, or any time you doubt your hands are clean.

Remember that hand washing is an easy and effective way to prevent infections and maintain your health. It is easy, cheap, and takes only 20 seconds. In fact, it's actually the best 20 seconds that you can spend on your health and the health of those around you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why is handwashing important?

A: Hand washing is essential to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. Many illnesses are spread through touch, and by washing your hands, you can remove any germs that you may have picked up from surfaces or other people.

Q: What type of soap should I use to wash my hands?

A: Hand washing can be done with any soap, provided that it is lathered and rubbed for atleast 20 seconds. Antibacterial soap is not necessary for most people, but it may be useful in some settings, such as hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

Q: Can hand sanitizers be used in place of hand washing?

A: Hand sanitizers can be used as an alternative to hand washing when soap and water are not available, but they should not replace hand washing in all circumstances. Hand sanitizers are not effective at removing dirt and grime from your hands, and they may not be effective against all types of germs.

Understanding the appropriate hand sanitizer uses and when to opt for handwashing instead can help ensure optimal hand hygiene and protection against harmful pathogens.

Q: How can I encourage my children to wash their hands?

A: Encourage your children to wash their hands regularly by setting good hand hygiene habits. Make hand washing a fun activity and explain to them why it is essential to wash their hands.

Q: Is it necessary to use antibacterial soap for hand washing?

A: Antibacterial soap is not required for daily hand washing. Regular soap and water can effectively remove germs and bacteria from your hands. In certain circumstances, antibacterial soap might be recommended.

Q: Is hand washing a way to prevent COVID-19 from spreading?

A: Hand washing is an important part of preventing the spread of COVID-19, along with practicing social distancing and wearing a mask. The CDC recommends washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place, blowing your nose, or coughing.