What is the correct way to wash your hands to prevent infection?

Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the most effective method for preventing infection, as it helps to remove dirt, debris, and pathogenic microorganisms from the skin's surface. The mechanical action of scrubbing combined with the surfactants in soap is essential for breaking down oils and killing germs. This specific timing of 20 seconds is crucial because it ensures that adequate friction is applied to effectively cleanse all areas of the hands, including between the fingers and under the nails.

While running hands under hot water may feel pleasant, it does not effectively cleanse the skin on its own and lacks the germ-killing properties of soap. Antibacterial wipes can be useful in situations where soap and water are unavailable, but they may not be as effective as handwashing with soap and water, especially when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Rinsing with water alone fails to remove microorganisms and does not provide the necessary cleaning action to prevent infections. Therefore, the most reliable method is thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.