Despite the hygiene lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans still are not washing their hands as often as they should — or doing it the right way.
A recent survey released on World Hand Hygiene Day found that nearly half of respondents admitted they sometimes forget or choose not to wash their hands after visiting places like grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops or health care facilities.
That’s concerning because about 80% of infectious diseases are spread by dirty hands, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.
About 80% of infectious diseases are spread by dirty hands.
National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Proper handwashing can dramatically reduce illness. Health experts say routine handwashing can help prevent one in three cases of diarrhea and one in five respiratory infections.
Soap Matters More Than Water Temperature
Many people believe hot water is necessary to kill germs. But research shows the temperature of the water matters far less than using soap and scrubbing properly.
A study from Rutgers University found that washing hands with cold water removes bacteria just as effectively as hot water. Researchers tested volunteers using water temperatures ranging from about 61°F to 100°F and found no significant difference in how many bacteria were removed.
Instead, the key factors were using soap and washing long enough.
Soap works by breaking down oils and dirt on the skin where germs hide. The friction created while scrubbing helps lift germs off the hands so they can be rinsed away.
When People Wash Their Hands
The survey found most people wash their hands after using the bathroom or handling food. But fewer people remember to wash their hands after coughing, sneezing or touching high-traffic public surfaces.
Health experts say those moments are especially important because respiratory viruses spread easily through contaminated hands.
How To Wash Your Hands Properly
Health experts recommend these steps:
- Wet your hands with clean running water (warm or cold).
- Apply soap and lather well.
- Scrub for at least 20 seconds, including backs of hands, between fingers and under fingernails.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water.
- Dry your hands completely with a clean towel or paper towel.
If soap and water aren’t available, alcohol-based hand sanitizer can help — but it doesn’t kill all germs and should not replace regular handwashing.The takeaway from health experts is simple: it’s not the temperature of the water that matters most — it’s using soap and washing your hands thoroughly and often.