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7 Steps to Proper Handwashing (WHO-Recommended Method)

Tap a step to see exactly how to do it.

1. Wet Your Hands With Water

Thoroughly wet your hands under running water, then apply soap.

2. Rub Your Palms Together

Rub both palms together thoroughly.

3. Clean the Backs of Your Hands and Between Fingers

Interlace your fingers and scrub thoroughly between them and across the backs of your hands.

4. Scrub Your Finger Knuckles

Interlock your fingers and rub the backs of your knuckles against your opposite palm.

5. Clean Your Thumbs

Wrap one hand around the opposite thumb and scrub it with a rotating motion.

6. Clean Under Your Fingernails

Rub your fingertips against the opposite palm to clean underneath your fingernails.

7. Rinse Under Running Water and Dry

Rinse off all soap thoroughly under running water, then dry completely with a personal towel or paper towel.

How Long Should You Actually Wash Your Hands?

The World Health Organization recommends washing with soap for at least 20 seconds β€” an easy way to remember it is that it's roughly the time it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice.

One of the Most Reliable Ways to Prevent Illness

Proper handwashing is considered one of the most effective and cost-free ways to prevent a wide range of infectious illnesses, from the common cold and flu to food poisoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hand sanitizer completely replace handwashing?

Hand sanitizer is convenient, but when hands are visibly dirty or you have enough time, washing with soap and water is more effective.

Does water temperature affect how well handwashing works?

Water temperature matters far less than using soap and scrubbing thoroughly for long enough β€” that combination is what actually matters most for removing germs.