How to Wash Your Hands the Right Way

Washing hands is a simple yet important activity that can prevent the spread of germs and keep you and your loved ones healthy. Although it seems like an easy practice, the process of washing your hands is often underestimated and not done correctly by many.

In this article, we will explore why washing hands is important, the steps to effective handwashing, the dirty details that many people miss, hand sanitizer use, and the importance of moisturizing after washing. Want to pass along this information to the next generation? We’ll also offer you some pointers on how to instill solid hand washing routines in your children as well.

Why It's Important

“Following simple handwashing practices is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of many types of infection and illness at home, at school and elsewhere,” states the FDA. These pathogens can easily be transferred from surfaces to your hands, and then from your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth, which can lead to infections or illnesses. Washing your hands regularly can help reduce the risk of catching the flu or the common cold and spreading germs to others.

As you go about your day, your hands collect all kinds of dirt, residue, and grime. You might not realize how many things you touch in all of the places you go, from shops, to the office, to the steering wheel of your car. Cleansing your hands of dirt and substances can keep you from inadvertently absorbing, or worse, consuming, any grime that has collected on your hands.

Steps to Effective Handwashing

Proper handwashing involves several steps that are essential for removing dirt, germs, and other harmful microorganisms. The steps to effective handwashing are as follows:

Step 1: Wet Hands

Wet your hands with clean, running water (preferably hot or warm).

Step 2: Apply Soap

Dispense enough soap to completely cover your hands and wrists. Use a good quality soap, preferably one that is antibacterial or antifungal. Puracy’s Natural Foaming Hand Soap is an ideal plant-powered option that keeps your skin safe from germs and from dryness. Our Foaming Hand Soap dispenses just enough cleansing foam to thoroughly wash your hands free of germs and dirt.

Step 3: Scrub for 20 seconds

Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Take time to cleanse between your fingers, as well as the back of your hands. According to the CDC, there is often a high concentration of microbes under the nails, so be sure to scrub thoroughly. Pick a song like “Happy Birthday” to time the length of your hand washing. Going through the song twice is about 20 seconds. It’s longer than you might think!

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Hands should be rinsed using clean, running water. Make sure to rinse off all soapy residue, since this will carry away the grime from your skin.

Step 5: Dry Hands

With a clean towel or air dryer, dry your hands thoroughly. Don’t skip this step: wet hands pass along germs more easily. You’re done!