Tips for the Best Handwashing
source: hygienematters
To help prevent the spread of germs, handwashing is key. Unfortunately, while many children and adults think they know how to properly wash their hands, arguably most probably haven’t been taught the best method.
During a demonstration at NSF International’s laboratories in Michigan, children were asked to apply a special glowing lotion to their hands before washing their hands. Once the children washed up, they placed their hands under a blacklight, and “problem spots” glowed, showing them what areas were missed while washing. The culprits: under the nails, between the fingers, and wrists.
To make sure these locations are not missed when you or your kids wash their hands, follow these simple steps: Wet your hands with warm water; lather your hands with soap; rub your hands together vigorously for 20 seconds, paying special attention to the nails, between the fingers, and wrists; rinse your hands with clean water; and dry your hands thoroughly with a hand dryer or paper towel.
Here are some ways to help make the process of handwashing fun for children:
- Consider creating a handwashing chart at home that tracks each time your child washes his or her hands. Offer them a prize or reward after a designated certain time frame of good handwashing practices.
- Take pictures of places germs live in your child's environment, such as on the dog (or its toy or dish) or doorknobs, and post them near sinks, on the refrigerator, or near your child’s handwashing chart. This will help remind them of when they need to wash their hands.
- Have young children count to 10 twice while washing their hands to better understand the required 20 seconds.
- Cook with your child, emphasizing the importance of washing your hands both before and after handling food.
- Check out online sites like scrubclub.org for additional fun handwashing ideas.
Handwashing is important for food safety, disease prevention and personal health. Teaching ourselves and our children the proper way to wash their hands now can help keep us all healthier.
Thank you to Cheryl Luptowski, Consumer Affairs Officer at NSF International, for this information.
