Correct Procedure for Sanitizing Hands

Hand sanitization--when done correctly--is one of the best ways to prevent sickness and avoid spreading infection. Whether you are disinfecting with hand sanitizer or using soap and water, it is important that you take the proper steps to ensure the best results.

Significance

• We come in contact with an abundance of germs during our everyday lives, so it is crucial that we counter these interactions by frequent hand washing and sanitization.

Types

• Thoroughly applying an alcohol-based hand disinfectant gel or wipes is a quick and effective method for properly sanitizing your hands on the go. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic encourages scrubbing hands with hot water and soap for at least 20 seconds as the most effective method of disinfecting your hands.

Considerations

• Products that advertise antibacterial components such as soaps and gels are popular, but in actuality, according to the Mayo Clinic, antibacterial soap is no more effective than regular soap at fighting germs.