National Handwashing Awareness Week

Last Updated: December 6, 2023

Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Did you know that you can prevent 1 in 3 diarrhea-related and 1 in 5 respiratory-related illnesses, just by washing your hands? It’s true! Good hand hygiene starts with washing your hands properly.  

Follow these five steps to clean hands.  

  1. Wet your hands with clean, running water. Warm or cold is fine.  
  2. Apply soap and lather by rubbing your hands together. Remember to get the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. 
  3. Scrub for at least 20 seconds. You can hum the Happy Birthday song from beginning to end twice if you need a timer.  
  4. Rinse your hands under clean, running water.  
  5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them. 

Yes, it’s that easy!  

But, wait! What if soap and water aren’t available? You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer as well, but make sure it’s at least 60% alcohol. Need more information? Visit www.cdc.gov/handwashing. 

Aah! Fresh clean hands!