Handwashing is a simple habit that helps stop everyday germs and keeps you and your community healthy. Here’s how to make it part of your routine.
Why Handwashing Matters
- We touch people, surfaces, and devices all day; many germs spread by contact.
- Effective handwashing removes the germs that cause illness—and keeps you from carrying them to others.
Soap and Water vs. Hand Sanitizer
- Use soap and water when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Soap, water, and rubbing lift dirt, chemicals, and germs so they rinse away.
- Use hand sanitizer when hands look clean but you need quick protection. Choose a product with about 70% alcohol.
How to Wash With Soap and Water (About 20 Seconds)
- Wet hands with clean running water (warm or cold)
- Lather with soap
- Scrub everywhere: palms, backs of hands, between fingers, under nails, and thumbs
- Rinse well under running water
- Dry with a clean towel or hand dryer
Tip: Hum “Happy Birthday” twice or the ABCs to reach 20 seconds.
How to Use Hand Sanitizer
- Apply the recommended amount to one palm.
- Rub all hand surfaces—backs, between fingers, and under nails.
- Keep rubbing until dry. Do not wipe off early; it won’t work as well.
When to Clean Your Hands
- Before: eating, preparing food, caring for a baby, or treating a cut.
- After: using the bathroom, changing diapers, blowing your nose, coughing/sneezing, touching trash, or handling animals/pet waste.
- Out and about: after using shared screens, carts, or door handles.
Common Mistakes
- Not long enough: rushing the 20 seconds.
- Missing spots: backs of hands, between fingers, under nails, and thumbs.
- Wiping off sanitizer before it dries.
- Skipping drying: wet hands spread germs more easily.
Make It a Habit
- Keep soap at every sink and alcohol-based sanitizer in bags, cars, and classrooms.
- Set reminders for kids (and adults). Posters near sinks help everyone remember.
- During cold and flu season, clean high-touch surfaces and wash hands more often.
Clean hands protect you, your family and your community. Small daily habits—like washing for 20 seconds and letting sanitizer dry—make a big difference.