Hand washing is a simple and effective way to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. Here are the correct hand washing steps, according to the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- First, wet your hands with clean, running water and apply soap. Lather your hands by rubbing them together, covering all surfaces of your hands and wrists. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, making sure to clean the backs of your hands, between your fingers, under your nails, and around your thumbs.
- Second, rinse your hands well under clean, running water. Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them. Use the towel to turn off the faucet and then dispose of it. If you don’t have a towel, use your elbow or a paper towel to turn off the faucet.
Hand washing should be done regularly throughout the day, especially before and after eating, preparing food, using the toilet, caring for someone who is sick, or touching your face. Hand washing can help protect you and others from infections and diseases.
