Keep Germs Away: The Best Way to Wash Your Hands

Dirty hands collect germs that can harm our health and the environment.

According to research from Rutgers University in New Jersey, to get rid of germs on your hands, it’s not the temperature that matters, but how long you wash them.

The study, published in Food Protection, shows no difference whether you wash with soap and cold or hot water, as long as you do it for at least 10 seconds.

In one simple action, you can remove germs from your hands, taking a minimum of 10 seconds. For those who want more than the bare minimum, washing for 10-20 seconds while scrubbing with soap is advised.

For best results, remember these steps:

1. Turn on the water and thoroughly wet your hands—the strong water flow helps to sterilize some of the germs.

2. With wet hands, apply soap and scrub for 20 seconds. Wetting the hands creates lather and absorbs the substance that kills germs.

Be sure to vigorously rub the palms, backs of hands, between the fingers, and under the nails.

You can use regular soap, as any soap can do the job.

3. Rinse and thoroughly dry your hands with a clean towel.

This article is meant to provide information and is not a substitute for medical or professional advice.