
It does not matter what kind of soap a person uses.Īccording to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is not enough evidence to show that over-the-counter antibacterial soaps are any better at killing microbes than regular soaps. Plain soap and water are very effective at removing microbes from the skin. However, warm water can be more pleasant than cold water, especially when washing the hands for 20 seconds. The thorough washing technique is what removes the bacteria. Research indicates that different temperature waters do not have a significantly different effect on the number of bacteria that hand washing removes. In the absence of a timer, they suggest singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice while washing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend scrubbing the hands for at least 20 seconds.

after touching an animal or their food or waste.before and after taking care of someone who is ill.after coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose.before inserting or removing contact lenses.after helping a child who has used the potty or toilet.It is a good idea to wash the hands several times during the day. The following tips may make hand washing easier and more effective: Wash the hands regularly throughout the day Use the towel (if you have one) to turn off the tap and then dispose of it.Dry them thoroughly, ideally, with a disposable towel.Rinse the hands under clean, running water.If a clean nail brush is available, scrub gently under the nails.

Rub the tips of the fingers of one hand on the palm of the other hand.Grasp the thumb of one hand with the other hand, and rotate the closed hand around the thumb to clean it.Rub the backs of the fingers against the opposite palm, interlocking the fingers as you do this.Rub the palms together again, and also clean in between the fingers again.Rub the palm of one hand over the back of the other hand, making sure to clean in between your fingers.Rub the palms together to form a lather.Cover all the surfaces of your hands in soap.Wet your hands with plenty of clean water.For a more in-depth guide to hand washing, follow these steps: To wash the hands, follow the simple steps in the diagram above.
