When washing hands, how long should friction be applied?

When washing hands, how long should friction be applied?

• A. At least 20 seconds
• B. At least 15 seconds
• C. At least 5 seconds
• D. At least 25 seconds

Answer: (A)

Friction time during handwashing is the crucial factor that lets soap’s action, plus your rubbing, physically remove germs from every part of the hands. Rubbing for at least 20 seconds gives enough time to clean all surfaces—palms, backs of hands, between fingers, under nails, and around the wrists—and then rinse away the loosened microbes. If you wash for less time, some areas may not be scrubbed thoroughly, leaving germs behind. Five seconds is far too short, and while twenty-five seconds would still be effective, the standard minimum you should aim for is at least 20 seconds.

Friction time during handwashing is the crucial factor that lets soap’s action, plus your rubbing, physically remove germs from every part of the hands. Rubbing for at least 20 seconds gives enough time to clean all surfaces—palms, backs of hands, between fingers, under nails, and around the wrists—and then rinse away the loosened microbes. If you wash for less time, some areas may not be scrubbed thoroughly, leaving germs behind. Five seconds is far too short, and while twenty-five seconds would still be effective, the standard minimum you should aim for is at least 20 seconds.