How to Wash Your Hands

Wash your hands the right way to remove germs and help stop the spread of illness.

1. Wet your hands and apply soap

   Wet both hands with clean running water, warm or cold, then apply enough soap to cover all surfaces. The water temperature does not affect germ removal, so use what is comfortable.

2. Lather and scrub for 20 seconds

   Rub your hands together to build a lather, scrubbing the palms, backs, between the fingers, and under the nails. Aim for at least 20 seconds, about the time it takes to hum Happy Birthday twice.

3. Rinse well

   Rinse thoroughly under clean running water so the loosened soap and germs wash away. Avoid dipping into a basin of standing water.

4. Dry your hands

   Dry with a clean towel or air dryer. Dry hands pick up and spread fewer germs than damp ones. In a public restroom, use a towel to turn off the tap and open the door.

5. Use sanitizer when soap is not available

   If you cannot wash, use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol, rubbing it over all surfaces until dry. Note that sanitizer does not work as well on visibly dirty or greasy hands.