The Foundational Steps of Hand Hygiene
According to the CDC, proper handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Understanding what is the order of hands for washing is crucial for maximizing its protective benefits. By mastering the sequence of wetting, lathering, scrubbing, rinsing, and drying, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting and spreading germs.
Step 1: Wet Your Hands
The first step is to wet your hands with clean, running water. The temperature of the water does not need to be hot; lukewarm water works just as well. This initial step helps to prepare your skin for the soap, allowing it to spread and lather more effectively across all surfaces of your hands.
Step 2: Lather with Soap
Once your hands are wet, apply enough soap to cover all surfaces. You can use liquid, bar, or powder soap. Rub your hands together, palm to palm, to create a good lather. A rich lather is not just for show; it helps to lift dirt, grease, and microbes from your skin's surface, preparing them for removal.
Step 3: The 20-Second Scrub
This is arguably the most critical part of the process. You must scrub your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds. To time yourself, you can hum or sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice. The scrubbing action, combined with the soap, dislodges germs from your skin. Ensure you get all the key areas:
- The backs of your hands
- Between your fingers
- Your wrists
- Under your fingernails
- The thumbs
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing, rinse your hands well under clean, running water. This step is essential for washing away all the soap and, more importantly, all the loosened dirt and germs. It's important to rinse from the wrists down to the fingertips, allowing gravity to carry the germs away.
Step 5: Dry Completely
Dry your hands using a clean towel or an air dryer. Patting your hands dry is often gentler on the skin than rubbing. Germs can transfer more easily from wet hands, so ensuring they are completely dry is the final, vital step in proper hand hygiene. Avoid re-contaminating your hands by using a dirty towel.
Comparing Handwashing Techniques
| Feature | Quick Rinse (Ineffective) | Proper Technique (Effective) |
|---|---|---|
| Germ Removal | Inconsistent and poor | High and consistent |
| Time Spent | < 10 seconds | ≥ 20 seconds |
| Areas Covered | Primarily palms | All surfaces, including between fingers and under nails |
| Soap Use | Minimal lather | Rich, full lather |
| Drying Method | Often incomplete | Thoroughly dry with clean towel or air dryer |
The Importance of Order and Frequency
The sequence of these steps is not arbitrary. Each stage builds on the last to ensure comprehensive and effective germ removal. Knowing when to wash your hands is just as important as knowing how. Make it a habit to wash your hands at these key moments:
- Before and after preparing food.
- Before and after eating.
- Before and after caring for someone who is sick.
- After using the toilet.
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste.
- After handling garbage.
- After treating a cut or wound.
Conclusion: A Simple Act with Significant Impact
Understanding and following the proper order of hands for washing is a fundamental part of maintaining good health. It is a simple, effective practice that everyone can adopt to protect themselves and their community from illness. Making this routine a consistent part of your daily life has a significant, positive impact on public health. For more information on hand hygiene and public health, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
By following these steps, you are not just cleaning your hands; you are building a powerful first line of defense against many common pathogens. The small effort you put into proper handwashing is a significant investment in your overall well-being. It is a key tool in preventing the spread of colds, flu, and other infectious diseases in all settings, from your home to public spaces.
