Hand Washing Steps

Washing your hands is one of the best ways to stay healthy. Germs are everywhere, and they can make you sick. Following the right steps when you wash gets rid of the most germs.

The Five Steps

First, wet your hands with clean running water. Second, put soap on your hands. Third, rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

Fourth, rinse your hands under clean running water. Fifth, dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them.

When to Wash

Wash your hands before eating and after using the bathroom. Wash them after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Wash them after playing with pets or playing outside.

If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. But soap and water work best.

Fun Facts

• Singing Happy Birthday twice takes about 20 seconds, which is how long you should scrub.
• Proper hand washing can prevent about 30 percent of diarrhea-related illnesses.
• Doctors wash their hands many times a day to keep patients safe.

Did You Know?

The doctor who first discovered that hand washing prevents disease, Ignaz Semmelweis, was laughed at by other doctors before they finally realized he was right!