To use hand wash (soap), wet your hands with water, apply enough soap to cover all surfaces, and then proceed to lather and rinse thoroughly.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Wet Your Hands: Turn on the tap and wet your hands with clean, running water. It's generally recommended to use lukewarm water if available, as it helps activate the soap and loosen dirt and germs.
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Apply Soap: Use a liquid or bar soap. If using a liquid soap, dispense a sufficient amount (usually one or two pumps) into the palm of your hand. If using bar soap, rub the bar between your hands to create a lather. Make sure you use enough soap to cover all surfaces of your hands.
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Lather and Scrub: Rub your hands together vigorously, creating a good lather. Ensure you cover all surfaces, including:
- The palms and backs of your hands
- Between your fingers
- Under your fingernails
- Your wrists
Scrub for at least 20 seconds. A helpful way to time this is by humming the "Happy Birthday" song twice.
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Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water, ensuring all traces of soap are removed.
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Dry Your Hands: Dry your hands using a clean towel, paper towel, or air dryer. If using a public restroom, consider using a paper towel to turn off the faucet and open the door to avoid re-contaminating your hands.
Why is handwashing important?
Handwashing with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. It helps remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses from your hands, protecting you and others from illness.
When should you wash your hands?
Wash your hands frequently, especially:
- Before preparing or eating food
- After using the toilet
- After coughing or sneezing
- After touching surfaces in public places
- After handling garbage
- After caring for someone who is sick
By following these steps, you can effectively use hand wash to maintain good hygiene and prevent the spread of germs.
