What Is the Proper Handwashing Technique?

Because of COVID-19, many people have started paying more attention to how they wash their hands than ever before. And we think that’s great! Washing our hands properly is an easy step we can all take to help slow the spread of the virus. But what actually is proper handwashing technique? Here are some simple tips to make sure you’re doing it the right way:

Wash for 20 Seconds

The general recommendation is to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Counting out the seconds may feel much longer than you’re expecting, so a more fun way to make sure you’re hitting these 20 seconds is to sing, hum, or whistle a song of about that same length. Going through the “Happy Birthday” song twice or once through your ABCs should be about 20 seconds.

Step by Step

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention outlines five steps for washing your hands correctly:

• First, wet your hands with water and then apply soap.
• Second, create a lather with the soap by rubbing your hands together.
• Third, scrub your hands. Don’t forget the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails!
• Fourth, rinse your hands.
• Lastly, use a clean towel to dry your hands.

Type of Soap

Antibacterial soap doesn’t fight viruses any better than regular soap (after all, viruses are germs but not all germs are bacteria). Plus, regular soap doesn’t kill the healthy bacteria on your hands. So find an inexpensive regular liquid or bar soap that makes washing your hands as enjoyable as possible, thus making it easier to wash your hands frequently and for the full 20 seconds each time.

We’re In This Together!

We know that our current times are full of uncertainty, but we hope you know that our Optima Dental Spa team is here for you. Contact us with any dental-related questions.

Photo from Rawpixel

Categorised in: Miscellaneous