Hand washing is one of the most important actions people can take to prevent the spread of germs and infections. It is a simple yet highly effective method to keep ourselves and others healthy.

However, there are still some misconceptions about the right way to wash our hands and how long it should take. In this article, we will explore the science behind hand washing and answer the question: how long is enough?.

What Happens When We Wash Our Hands?

The main purpose of washing our hands is to remove dirt, grime, and germs that can make us sick.

Our hands come into contact with countless surfaces and objects throughout the day, and many of them are teeming with bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

When we wash our hands with soap and water, we create an environment that separates these harmful microorganisms from our skin, suspends them in water, and washes them away.

Soap acts as a surfactant, which means it reduces the surface tension of water and helps to break down grease and oil. This allows water to penetrate into the crevices in our skin and rinse away any germs that may be hiding there.

However, not all hand washing is created equal. There are several factors that can affect the effectiveness of hand washing, including the type of soap used, the temperature of the water, and the length of time spent washing.

How Long Should Hand Washing Take?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend washing your hands for at least 20 seconds. This is the amount of time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice or to count to 20 slowly.

However, many people do not wash their hands for this long.

A 2013 study published in the Journal of Environmental Health found that the average person washes their hands for only about 6 seconds. This is not nearly enough time to effectively remove germs from the skin.

In fact, the study found that only 5% of people washed their hands for the recommended 15 to 20 seconds.

Another study conducted in 2017 by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) found that the average hand washing time was only 6.3 seconds.

The study also found that people who washed their hands for longer were more effective at removing bacteria from their skin.

Why Does Length of Hand Washing Matter?

So, why is it so important to wash your hands for 20 seconds or longer? It all comes down to the nature of bacteria and viruses.

Bacteria and viruses can cling to surfaces on our skin, such as the ridges and folds of our fingertips. These microorganisms can be easily transferred to objects and other people through casual contact.

If they are not removed through hand washing, they can spread and cause illness.

Research has shown that washing your hands for at least 20 seconds can remove significantly more bacteria from your skin than shorter washing times.

In fact, a 2008 study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that increasing hand washing time from 15 seconds to 30 seconds can reduce bacterial counts by over 50%.

How Can You Make Sure You Are Washing Your Hands Long Enough?

To make sure you are washing your hands for the recommended amount of time, the CDC recommends following these steps:.

Step 1: Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), and apply soap..

Step 2: Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails..

Step 3: Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds..

Step 4: Rinse your hands well under clean, running water..

Step 5: Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them..

Remember to take your time during the hand washing process. Don’t rush through it in a few seconds or scrub too hard, as these can both be damaging to your skin.

Instead, use gentle pressure and a circular motion to work the soap into all the nooks and crannies of your hands and fingers.

Conclusion

Hand washing is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing the spread of infection. By washing our hands for at least 20 seconds, we can effectively remove germs from our skin and help protect ourselves and others from illness.

So, the next time you wash your hands, remember to take the time to do it right.