Hand Washing Technique Matters

While most people are aware of the fundamental rules when it comes to hand washing, there are many situations in which we easily forget to apply the appropriate technique. We know, for example, that we should wash our hands with soap and hot water after using the bathroom and when we handle raw meat or eggs. We may not, however, remember some of the other critical times when proper cleaning can actually help to protect others as well as ourselves. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, recommends washing hands before and after performing the following in order to prevent the spread of germs and illness:

• Cleaning and treating a cut or scrape
• Preparing any type of food for yourself or others
• Changing a baby's diaper
• Eating snacks and meals
• Handling pets or pet food
• Coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose
• Taking care of someone who is ill

When it comes to getting your hands truly clean, the method you use really matters. In order to kill the various types of bacteria and viruses that can cause humans to become sick, you should always use antibacterial soap and hot water. When these are unavailable, try to find some alcohol-based sanitizer and rub in until dry.

The amount of time that you spend agitating the soap and scrubbing also plays a key role in how clean you actually get. The CDC offers a recommendation of at least 20 seconds to completely rid skin surfaces and the spaces under fingernails of all debris and germs.

Another overlooked aspect of proper hand washing involves the way you dry them after. In commercial settings like grocery stores and restaurants, you will generally find one or two drying options that are considered sanitary and safe. Disposable paper towels are the most common, followed by automatic air dryers. These methods are preferable over cloth towels for one obvious reason: cloth towels that are reused by multiple people can quickly absorb bacteria and viruses. Even if you've just washed your hands in the correct way, the towel you use to dry them can make you sick. Always opt for paper towels or air dryers when available to help reduce your risk of picking up germs from others in public places.