The Whys of Washing
When it comes to keeping kids happy and healthy, a little thing like proper hand washing goes a long way.
The Whens of Washing
Because germs are invisible, it’s important to wash your hands even when they don’t look dirty, including:
- Before eating; also before, during and after preparing food
- After using the bathroom
- After handling animals or their waste
- When someone at home is sick
The How-Tos of Washing
With soap and water
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Wet hands in warm, running water.
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Lather well with soap. Rub hands vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Scrub all surfaces (back of hands, wrists, between fingers, under nails).
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Rinse well. Dry with a clean or disposable towel. (In a public restroom, leave the water running, dry hands, then turn off the faucet using a paper towel.)
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When soap and water aren’t handy
Hand sanitizers such as PURELL® are ideal when there’s no soap and water.
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Apply to your palm (read label for amount).
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Rub hands together, covering all surfaces, until they are dry.
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Note: If hands are visibly dirty, wash with soap and water.