Hand Washing

Germs are all around us. They can be on surfaces, in the air, and even on your skin. Every day, your hands come into contact with germs. Many of these germs can make you and others sick. Washing your hands is an easy way to get rid of germs.

When should I wash my hands?

Wash your hands when they're dirty. Here's when to do it:

Before:

• You visit a baby.
• You're with someone with a weakened disease-fighting system (immune system).
• You put in or take out contact lenses.

After:

• You use the bathroom or help someone else use it.
• You sneeze, cough, or blow your nose.
• You work or play outside.
• You touch something dirty, such as:
  • Garbage.
  • Money.
  • Someone else's hands.
  • Dirty clothes, bedding, or rags.
• You use a phone.
• You use cleaners or chemicals.
• You touch or care for animals. This includes touching their food, poop, toys, or leashes.

When away from home:

• You go shopping, especially with a shopping cart or basket.
• You take a bus, train, taxi, or ride-share.

Before and after:

• You touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• You touch food, including when:
  • You make or eat food.
  • You make a bottle for a child.
  • You feed a child.
• You visit or take care of someone who is sick. This includes touching used tissues, toys, clothes, and bedding.
• You change a bandage or diaper.
• You take care of a wound.
• You give or take medicine.

How do I wash my hands the right way with soap and water?

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water. Turn off the water or move your hands out of the water.
2. Put liquid soap or bar soap on your hands.
3. Rub your hands together fast to make suds.
4. Keep rubbing your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Scrub all parts of your hands well, both the fronts and backs. Scrub between your fingers and under your nails.
5. Rinse your hands with clean, running water. Do this until all the soap is gone.
6. Dry your hands. Use an air dryer or a clean paper or cloth towel, or let your hands air-dry. Do not use your clothing or a dirty towel.

• Turn off the water faucet.
• Open the bathroom door.

How can I clean my hands if I do not have soap and water?

• Has at least 60% alcohol in it.
• Is a wipe, spray, or gel.

• Use enough product to cover your hands.
• Wipe, rub, or spray the product on all parts of your hands and wrists. Include the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Rub your hands until they feel dry.

Hand sanitizers shouldn't be used instead of soap and water when touching food.