Washing your hands regularly is one of the easiest and most effective ways to control the spread of germs and disease. Hands should be washed throughout the day, particularly after contact with possible sources of germs and before handling food. If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizers are also effective at eliminating germs.
When Should You Wash Hands?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that hands should be washed after using the bathroom or changing a diaper, before and after contact with somebody who is ill, after contact with animals or animal waste, after sneezing, coughing or nose blowing, after touching garbage, and before and after caring for a wound or cut. Always wash your hands before preparing food and before eating.
How Should You Wash Hands?
When washing hands with soap and water, the CDC advises using warm water and soap, rubbing until a lather forms and washing for 20 seconds. Reach all surfaces, and rinse with clean running water. Hands should be dried with an air dryer or paper towel, and the faucet should be turned off with a paper towel when possible.
Hand Sanitizers
If you can't wash your hands with soap and water, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective at controlling the spread of germs. Apply hand sanitizer to one palm, and then rub your hands together, making sure to cover all areas of your hands and fingers. Rub until your hands are dry.
Antibacterial Soaps
According to the Mayo Clinic, antibacterial soaps are no more effective than regular soap at controlling germs. In addition, using these soaps may contribute to the development of resistant bacteria that will be harder to eliminate. Antimicrobial towelettes and wipes, according to the Mayo Clinic, are not as effective as alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Kids and Handwashing
To help children form proper hand-washing habits, wash your own hands with them to demonstrate how to do it properly. A chart by the sink that children can check off when they wash might also help. Regular hand washing is especially important for children in child-care settings, who are at greater risk for contact with germs.
