You can't just rub your dirty hands on your clothes or rinse them with water to get rid of the germs. Here are some facts to help keep you clean!

• Water by itself is not enough to get rid of all of germs. You've gotta get some soap involved! Why? Your skin naturally produces oils that germs can stick to. Soap helps to break down that oil, which makes it harder for germs to stay on your hands.
• Just running your hands under water with a little soap doesn't count — give it some oomph! Rubbing your hands together creates friction that helps to loosen and remove the dirt and germs that stick to your hands. Put some muscle into it!
• Wash your hands for about 20 seconds. Just how long is that? Try singing the chorus to your favorite song while you scrub. Just for good measure, sing it again.
• You probably don't think much about your fingernails when washing your hands, but you should. Dirt and germs can easily get stuck under there. Use the fingernails of one hand to clean under the nails of the other.
• Antibacterial "soaps" and gels aren't any better than alcohol-based gels for killing bacteria. If you can't get to soap and water right away, try carrying an alcohol-based gel in your backpack to use in the meantime.
• Don't just wipe those wet hands on your clothes! Drying hands thoroughly after washing is important. If you have a choice, use a paper towel instead of a cloth to prevent the spread of germs to others who might use the same towel. Toss the paper towel once you're done.

Hand Washing How-to's

	Take the plunge. Wet your hands under warm running water and apply some soap.
	Lather up! Rub your hands together hard to build up lots of soapy bubbles. They'll help scrub dirt and germs away.
	Don't forget. Washing your palms isn't enough — make sure you wash hands front and back, get between your fingers, around your wrists, and under your nails for 20 seconds. Sing your favorite tune for 20 seconds to get the timing right.
	Rinse well in warm water. A good rinse will get any last stragglers off your hands and down the drain!
	Dry your hands completely. Wipe your hands with a paper towel and throw it away after you're done.

<< Back to The Buzz on Scuzz