Washing your hands frequently has always been an important endeavor. However, in recent times, it has become more crucial than ever. Dirty hands can spread germs, bacteria, and viruses. Similar to wearing a mask and keeping your distance when you feel ill, washing your hands thoroughly helps protect yourself and others from sickness. Washing your hands may seem like a relatively simple task, but there is a right and a wrong way to do so. Taking extra precautions can help enhance your cleanliness and protect your home, health, and everyone around you.
Use An Efficient Hand Wash.
There are several different types of hand wash on the market. However, they were not all created equally. Antibacterial soap is efficient for neutralizing germs, but it can be highly drying if you use it back-to-back. Some hand washes have harsh scents that may make handwashing less pleasant. If your soap of choice contains chemicals (as many of them do), you may even experience irritation.
The best hand washes clean and refresh, providing soft hands and peace of mind. As an added bonus, you can find and purchase environmentally friendly hand wash. For example, Endota Spa’s hand wash is formulated with a light fragrance and organic ingredients. Organic soap that is free from harsh chemicals can be an effective cleanser and a source of skincare and aromatherapy.
Pay Close Attention To Your Fingernails.
Even with regular hand washing, dirt and germs can become stuck under your fingernails. One way to eliminate this accumulation of dirt is to keep your nailbed properly groomed. Shorter nails provide less surface for germs to populate. However, bacteria and grime can make their way under even the shortest of nails. It can be helpful to keep a nail scrubber by your sink to combat fingernail buildup.
While you are washing your hands, give your fingernails a quick scrub with your fingernail brush. Then, rinse the brush off and rid it of any excess water. This precaution will keep your nail scrubber fresh and clean for the next time you clean your hands. Every so often, make sure to wash your fingernail scrubber with soap and water to prevent bacteria from breeding on its wet surface.
Remember the “Happy Birthday” Rule.
When you are busy, it is easy to rush through your routine tasks. However, washing your hands and brushing your teeth for the right amount of time is essential to the germ-busting process. A good rule of thumb to determine how long is long enough to be washing your hands is to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
If you use a public restroom, it is probably best to keep your singing inside your head, although you may prefer to share your singing voice with the world. Experts say that washing your hands for 20 seconds is adequate, which roughly translates to “Happy Birthday” twice from beginning to end. If you don’t particularly care for the Happy Birthday song, just count the seconds in your head.
It may seem elementary, but many adults fail to wash their hands properly. In fact, if you have ever used a busy public restroom, you have likely seen someone leaving their stall without stopping to wash their hands more than once. For this reason, it can be helpful to avoid touching doorknobs or faucets whenever possible in a public area.
Keeping hand sanitizer on you can carry you through the times you need to clean your hands but don’t have access to a sink. Many dislike the smell of hand sanitizer, but some options involve essential oils or other natural fragrances that may be a bit kinder to your sensitive nose.