How to properly wash your hands

Amid the Coronavirus pandemic, we have to learn how to wash our hands properly. This isn’t only for this risky period, but also for general hygiene even after this virus is long gone.

A proper hand washing routine also protects you from illnesses like the common cold, skin infections or breakouts and you’ll prevent the possibility ingesting germs.

These hand washing steps have proved to be the best way to keep your hands clean as per World Health Organization (WHO) standards.

First, ensure that you have your soap ready and remove any jewelry you might be wearing at the time. The best soap to use is liquid soap from a dispenser because it’s more hygienic than bar soaps. You can also choose antibacterial options for that extra mile.

Step 1

Open the tap and wet your hands first with the water for a more seamless process. The water simply helps to break down the dirt and bacteria so always use that even when using liquid soap. Next, lather your hands with the soap and use enough to cover all the areas of your hands. Lather for a few seconds to activate the soap by rubbing your palms together.

Step 2

The next step is to place your right palm over your left hand and interlace your fingers. Move your right hand back and forth while your fingers are still interlaced. Once you’ve done that for a few seconds, place your left palm over your right hand and repeat the same motion.

Step 3

Let your palms face each other and interlace your fingers. Move them back and forth and ensure that you let the soap reach all areas.

Step 4

The next step is to focus on the back of your fingers where people often forget to clean as they wash their hands. Cup your hands and lock the fingers on your right hand into the left palm and vice versa, such that the back of your fingers get into contact with the opposite palm. Then, wash them in a rotating motion.

Step 5

This step focuses on your thumbs and the tips of your fingers. Wrap your right hand around your left thumb and rotate it. When you’re done with that, repeat the same on the other side. For the finger tips, pinch your fingers together and rub each side on the palm of the opposite hand. Finally, rinse your hands properly then grab a paper towel to dry your hands before closing the tap. You’re to use that same paper towel to close the tap once you’re done. This way you’ll prevent any germs from transferring to your hands from the tap.

Extra Tips:

Don’t let too much water flow from the taps as you’re scrubbing your hands. Water conservation is important for the environment so we all need to do our part when it comes to this. Don’t rush through the process. The soap won’t be as effective in eliminating the germs which could cause a lot of problems. This is especially an important step when you’ve been exposed the corona virus. The soap and water can effectively break down the virus when you give it enough time. If you have long nails or extensions, use a brush to get underneath them. Also, remember to disinfect the brush well once you’re done. Opt for hand towels because dryers use the bacteria filled air circulating in the washroom to dry your hands. Dryers basically defeat the whole purpose of washing. Lastly, always moisturize your hands afterwards to prevent your skin from drying out.

 

If you could choose any age, to stay in for the rest of your life, which would it be?