Hand washing is the most simple and effective way to protect yourself and others from infections. Proper hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of germs and diseases, especially during outbreaks like the COVID-19 pandemic. Below are some essential dos and don'ts of hand washing that you should keep in mind:
Wash your hands frequently, especially before and after eating, using the restroom, or after coming in contact with someone who is unwell. You should also wash your hands after coughing or sneezing, and when handling anything that may be contaminated, including trash, laundry, and pets.
Using hot water to wash your hands can not only damage your skin but can also reduce the effectiveness of the soap. Instead, use warm water to kill germs effectively without harming your skin.
Soap and water work together to remove dirt, oil, and germs from your hands. Use enough soap to create a rich lather, and be sure to scrub the back of your hands, under the nails, and between fingers for at least 20 seconds.
Rushing through hand washing is a common mistake. Make sure you take enough time to wash your hands thoroughly, including your wrists, fingers, and nails. Rushing through can leave certain areas of your hands uncleaned and lead to the spread of germs.
When soap and water are not readily available, hand sanitizers can be used to kill germs. The sanitizer should contain at least 60% alcohol, and you should rub it into your hands for 20 seconds. However, hand sanitizers are not as effective as washing hands with soap and water.
Your face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth, are common entry points for germs. Avoid touching your face as much as possible, even after washing your hands.
After washing your hands, dry them thoroughly with a clean towel or air dryer. Damp hands spread germs more efficiently, so make sure they're completely dry.
Not everyone is as conscious about hand hygiene as you may be, so be aware of potentially contaminated surfaces in public areas. Washing your hands regularly and carrying your hand sanitizer around can help you stay safe from germs.
Do Wash Your Hands Frequently
One of the most important things you can do to prevent the spread of germs is to wash your hands frequently. This is especially important during outbreaks like COVID-19. Not washing your hands properly can result in the spread of diseases and serious illnesses.
You should make sure to wash your hands before and after eating, after using the restroom, and after coming in contact with someone who is sick. It's better to be safe than sorry, as germs can easily transfer from one surface to another.
To wash your hands properly, wet your hands with warm water, apply enough soap to create a good lather, and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to scrub your palms, the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Rinse your hands well with warm water, and dry them with a clean towel or air dryer.
In addition to washing your hands frequently, it's also important to avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes. This can transfer germs from your hands to these areas and potentially cause illness.
Remember, washing your hands frequently is a simple yet effective way to protect yourself and others from the spread of germs and illnesses. Be sure to practice good hand hygiene and encourage those around you to do the same.
Don't Use Hot Water
One common misconception about hand washing is that hot water is necessary to kill germs. However, using hot water can actually be damaging on your skin and cause the soap to lose its effectiveness. Hot water can strip away the natural oils on your skin, leaving it dry and more susceptible to cracks or cuts. This can lead to infections and make it easier for germs to cling onto the surface of your skin.
The best temperature to use when washing your hands is warm water. Warm water is just as effective at killing germs while being gentle on your skin. It can also help to open up the pores on your skin, allowing for a more thorough cleaning.
In addition to using warm water, make sure to use high-quality soap. The soap works together with water to remove dirt and germs from the surface of your skin. Using enough soap to create a good lather is important to ensure that all areas of your hands are properly cleaned.
Overall, using hot water may seem like a good idea, but it can actually be harmful to your skin and make it more difficult to wash your hands effectively. Using warm water and soap is the best way to keep your hands clean and free from germs, especially during times of outbreaks like COVID-19.
Do Use Soap
Soap is an important tool in the fight against germs and illnesses. When you wash your hands with soap and water, the soap works to break down the outer coating of the virus or bacteria, effectively killing them and removing them from your hands.
When using soap, it's important to use enough to create a good lather. This will help ensure that every part of your hands is covered and that all the germs are removed. You should also make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds for the best results.
You may be wondering what type of soap to use. Any soap will do the trick, and you don't need to resort to using antibacterial soap. In fact, regular soap is just as effective in removing germs and is less harsh on your skin. It's also important to note that antibacterial soap can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which is a growing issue.
It's important to remember to wash your hands with soap whenever possible, and especially after touching potentially contaminated surfaces or coming in contact with someone who is sick. By using soap and water together, you can effectively remove dirt, grease, and germs, protecting yourself and those around you from illness.
Don't Rush Through Your Hand Washing
When it comes to hand washing, taking your time is important. Rushing through the process can lead to missed spots on your hands where germs can still be present. To ensure that you've thoroughly washed your hands, start by wetting them with warm water. Then, apply enough soap to create a lather that covers your entire hand, including your wrists, between your fingers, and your fingertips. Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds, making sure to reach all areas, including under your nails.
If you're short on time, resist the temptation to rush through your hand washing. Instead, prioritize proper hand hygiene by planning ahead and budgeting enough time to complete the process thoroughly. Think ahead and make sure you have access to soap and water when you'll need it.
It can also help to make hand washing a mindfulness exercise. Use the time to take deep breaths or focus on a calming visualization. For kids, consider turning hand washing into a fun and engaging activity by singing a song or making up a game.
Remember, taking the time to wash your hands thoroughly is crucial for preventing the spread of germs, including those that cause the COVID-19 virus. Don't rush through the process – make sure you're washing your hands properly to keep yourself and those around you healthy.
Do Use Sanitizer When Necessary
Hand sanitizers are a great alternative when soap and water are not available. You can keep a small bottle with you at all times for added protection. Hand sanitizers kill germs effectively, but it is important to choose the right one and to use it properly.
When purchasing hand sanitizer, make sure it contains at least 60% alcohol. Look for brands that are specifically designed for hand sanitizing. Some hand sanitizers may contain low levels of alcohol, making them less effective in killing germs. Be cautious of any hand sanitizers that claim to be “all natural” or “chemical-free” since these products may not have been tested for their effectiveness in killing germs.
To use the hand sanitizer properly, apply enough product to the palm of your hands to cover all surfaces. Rub the sanitizer into your hands for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to get in between your fingers and don't forget to clean your fingertips. Allow the hand sanitizer to dry completely before touching anything.
It is important to note that hand sanitizers are not a replacement for hand washing. They should only be used as a supplement when soap and water are not available. Additionally, hand sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs, such as those that cause stomach illnesses.
Storing your hand sanitizer properly is also important. Keep it in a dry place and away from heat or flames. Keep it out of reach of children and do not swallow it. If ingested, seek medical attention immediately.
- Choose hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol
- Apply enough sanitizer to cover all surfaces of your hands
- Rub the sanitizer into your hands for at least 20 seconds
- Don't forget to clean your fingertips
- Allow the hand sanitizer to dry completely before touching anything
Keeping these tips in mind will ensure that you are using hand sanitizer effectively and keeping yourself and those around you safe from harmful germs.
Don't Touch Your Face
One of the most important dos and don'ts of proper hand washing is avoiding touching your face. Your mouth, nose, and eyes are the most vulnerable parts of your face when it comes to transferring germs. By touching these areas, you are potentially introducing harmful bacteria or viruses into your body.
According to studies, people touch their faces approximately 23 times per hour. It's a habit that's hard to break, but it's crucial in preventing the spread of illnesses. When you touch your face, you are introducing germs that may be on your hands to the mucous membranes present in your mouth, nose, and eyes.
If you must touch your face, ensure that you have thoroughly washed your hands before doing so. If you can't wash your hands, use hand sanitizer to kill any germs on your hands before touching your face.
In case it's hard to break the habit of touching your face, try reminding yourself to avoid it by placing notes in areas like your workspace or using elastic bands around your wrists. These reminders can be helpful in breaking the habit and forming new hygiene habits.
- Avoid rubbing or sticking your fingers into your nose.
- Avoid licking or biting your fingernails.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching your lips with your fingers.
If you have a habit of touching your face too frequently, it's advisable to take conscious steps towards breaking it. Forming good habits can be the difference between illness and health, and it all starts with controlling this seemingly harmless habit of touching your face.
Do Dry Your Hands Thoroughly
After washing your hands, it is important to take the time to dry them thoroughly. If you leave your hands damp, this can provide the perfect breeding ground for germs to thrive in. Damp hands can also transfer germs more easily onto other surfaces, increasing the risk of contamination.
You can either use a clean towel or an air dryer to dry your hands. If you choose to use a towel, make sure it is clean and has not been used by anyone else. Bacteria can spread easily on damp towels, so it is crucial to use a fresh one each time.
If you decide to use an air dryer, make sure your hands are completely dry before turning it off. Sometimes, air dryers might not dry your hands fully, so you may want to use a towel to finish the job or wait a little longer to ensure they are completely dry.
It is important to remember that drying your hands is just as important as washing them. Germs can quickly spread from damp hands, so take the time to ensure your hands are thoroughly dry. This small step can go a long way in preventing the spread of germs and illnesses.
Don't Assume Others are Practicing Good Hand Hygiene
Keeping up with good hand hygiene practices is essential to staying healthy. However, it is important to remember that not everyone may be practicing good hand hygiene habits.
When out in public, it is crucial to be mindful of the surfaces you touch, as they may be contaminated with germs. For example, doorknobs, elevator buttons, and shared surfaces like tables and counters are all high-contact areas that may harbor germs.
Washing your hands frequently can help protect you from the germs left behind by others, but it's not always possible to immediately wash your hands after every interaction. In these situations, using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can help reduce the risk of infection.
It's also important to avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes, as this can allow germs to enter your body. Encourage those around you to practice good hand hygiene habits and follow the guidelines for preventing the spread of germs and illnesses. By working together, we can all do our part to stay healthy and safe.