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Things You Might Not Know About Handwashing

How many times have you seen people exit the restroom without washing their hands? We have all seen our share. Whether it's a child, adult, or even ourselves when we are in a rush, some people really do get in a rush and forget. However, if all those people knew a few things about the importance of hand washing, they may not be so quick to forget.

  1. History

    • During the 19th century, the amount of deaths in hospitals was at an alarming rate. For some time, doctors were at a loss of what to do. When the doctors examined patients, delivered babies, or even performed surgeries, they were not cleaning up afterwards. They went from patient to patient and did not properly wash themselves. This spread diseases and people died. In the mid-1800s, a few doctors attempted to promote hand washing, but with little result. In 1910, Dr. Josephine Baker taught proper hygiene in New York City, but was also frowned upon.

    Hidden Germs

    • We all know we should immediately wash our hands after using the restroom or after handling raw meat. Hands should also be washed after coughing or sneezing in them, as you can get sick from your own germs. Wash after you touch someone else who is sick, or touch door handles and grocery carts. Germs are invisible to the naked eye, so during cold and flu season, it is important to keep hands clean.

    Antibacterial Soap

    • Just using water is not enough. Wash with antibacterial soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds. This gives time for the soap and water to make contact with the germs and rid them from your skin. If the restroom has a hand dryer, use that rather than paper towels. The extra heat helps kill germs.

    Alchol Based Cleanser

    • The CDC recommends that when soap and water are not available, using an alcohol-based sanitizer is helpful. Keep some handy, in case you are in a public restroom and the soap has run out. If possible, keep it in your vehicles and at your work desk. Use it after you pump gasoline, sneeze, blow your nose or shake hands with someone.

    Death By Germs

    • Today, people still die from disease due to uncleanliness, though not as much as in the 19th century. Wash your hands frequently to stay healthy.

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