How Often Should You Practice Hygiene in Public?
Maintaining good hygiene is essential in our daily lives, especially when we’re in public areas where we’re surrounded by people and potential germs. But how often should you practice hygiene in public? In this article, we’ll explore the importance of practicing good hygiene in public and provide some guidelines on how often you should do so.
Why Is Hygiene Important in Public?
Germs and viruses are everywhere, and they can easily spread from person to person through contact. Public places like shopping malls, restaurants, and public transportation hubs are breeding grounds for germs. If you’re not practicing good hygiene, you’re putting yourself and others at risk of getting sick.
How Often Should You Wash Your Hands?
Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should wash your hands:
- After using the bathroom
- Before and after eating
- After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
- After touching animals or their waste
- After being in contact with someone who is sick
- After touching garbage or anything that may have come into contact with germs
Ideally, you should wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used.
How Often Should You Use Hand Sanitizer?
Hand sanitizer can be a convenient way to keep your hands clean when soap and water are not available. The CDC recommends using hand sanitizer:
- When washing your hands with soap and water is not possible
- After shaking hands with someone who may have germs
- After touching something that may have come into contact with germs
- After coughing or sneezing
When using hand sanitizer, make sure to apply a sufficient amount to cover all surfaces of your hands and rub it in thoroughly. Let it dry completely before touching anything else.
How Often Should You Clean Your Phone?
Your phone is a breeding ground for germs, especially if you share it with others or touch your face after using it. The CDC recommends cleaning your phone:
- At least once a day
- After using the phone in public
- After touching your face or mouth
You can use a disinfectant wipe or a 70% alcohol solution to clean your phone. Avoid spraying any liquids directly onto your phone’s screen or charging port.
How Often Should You Clean Your Keys and Wallet?
Your keys and wallet can also harbor germs, especially if you touch your face or mouth after handling them. The CDC recommends cleaning them:
- At least once a week
- After using the bathroom
- After coughing or sneezing
You can use a disinfectant wipe to clean your keys and wallet. Make sure to remove any loose dirt or debris before cleaning them.
Conclusion
Practicing good hygiene in public is crucial in preventing the spread of germs and viruses. By washing your hands frequently, using hand sanitizer, cleaning your phone regularly, and cleaning your keys and wallet regularly, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting sick. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health, so make sure to practice good hygiene in public as often as possible.
