How to Fight Germs by Washing Your Hands

Washing your hands marks your first line of defense against germs: the most effective way to prevent the spread and contamination of microbes. You can receive or spread bacteria and viruses by simply touching or being touched by a person with contaminated hands. You can also acquire infections through inanimate objects tainted with microbes (such as door knobs or toys) and then touching your mouth, eyes and/or nose. You should always properly wash your hands to decrease your risk of infection by germs.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Towel

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove any rings or jewelry that you have on your fingers or wrists.

• 2

  Run the water from the faucet on cold for ten seconds then slowly increase the water temperature until its warm, not hot.

• 3

  Scrub your hands with soap and water, including between the fingers, under and around the nail beds, and the backs of your hands. Wash and scrub your hands for 20 seconds.

• 4

  Rinse thoroughly, allowing running water to go down from your wrists to your fingertips. Allow the water to run for 5 seconds.

• 5

  Dry your hands with a paper towel, a clean towel or air dry. Protect your hands from touching any dirty surfaces while you leave the bathroom.