The Importance of Handwashing: How to Do It Correctly?

A significance of handwashing in everyday health maintenance is essential. Establishing proper hygiene habits not only improves our personal well-being but also positively impacts the health of our environment. Our hands are in constant contact with various surfaces, whether it’s door handles, phones, or even money. During our daily activities, countless pathogens can end up on our skin, which we can easily transmit.

Many people are unaware that the number of bacteria on their hands can be as high as 10 million, and while most of these are harmless, infectious diseases such as colds or flu can pose serious health risks. Regular and proper handwashing is crucial in preventing illnesses. Since handwashing is a fundamental hygiene practice, it is important to perform it consciously, as incorrect methods can even achieve the opposite of the desired result.

Below, we will present the most common mistakes made during handwashing and how we can perform this activity most effectively.

The most common mistakes in handwashing

Many tend to rush through handwashing, which can lead to serious problems. It is common to only lather their hands for a few seconds and then rinse immediately. This method does not remove a significant portion of pathogens. Some people even neglect to dry their hands after washing, which can lead to dry skin, cracking, and fungal infections.

Ideally, handwashing should last at least 30 seconds. However, both washing too quickly and washing too frequently can be problematic. If someone feels compelled to wash their hands constantly, it can cause anxiety and other health issues. Therefore, it is important to find the right balance in the frequency and duration of handwashing.

It is essential to wash hands in the following situations: before and after meals, after using the restroom, before and after changing diapers, and after coughing or blowing the nose. It is particularly important that in the case of viral illnesses, the infected person also washes their hands regularly to prevent the spread of pathogens.

The steps of proper handwashing

To maximize effectiveness during handwashing, it is advisable to follow these steps. First, start by wetting your hands under cold or warm running water. Next, it is important to thoroughly lather your hands, ensuring that the soap reaches the palms, between the fingers, the backs of the hands, and the wrists. This process should be done for at least 20-30 seconds.

After lathering, rinse your hands thoroughly under running water, then dry them with a clean towel. If possible, it is also advisable to moisturize your skin with hand cream to prevent dryness. These steps help ensure that handwashing is truly effective and reduces the risk of infectious diseases.

Proper handwashing not only protects our health but also that of those around us. Therefore, it is worth paying conscious attention to this daily activity, as establishing appropriate hygiene habits serves the health of us all in the long run.