How to wash your hands properly in 20 seconds
Most people rinse and go. Five simple movements make sure no part of your hands is missed.
2 min read
Why 20 seconds
A quick rinse leaves germs behind, especially on fingertips, thumbs and between the fingers. Scrubbing with soap for at least 20 seconds gives the lather time to loosen them so the water can carry them away.
The five movements
- Wet your hands with clean running water and apply hand wash
- Rub palm to palm until you have a good lather
- Scrub the backs of both hands with your fingers interlaced
- Work between the fingers and all the way round each thumb
- Rub your fingertips and nails into the opposite palm
Finish well
Rinse thoroughly under running water and dry with a clean towel or let your hands air dry. Wet hands pick up and pass on germs more easily than dry ones, so drying matters.
Teaching children? Have them hum a short song twice while they scrub. It takes about 20 seconds.