How to Use Hand Sanitizer Correctly: A Guide to Staying Healthy

In today’s world, hand hygiene is more important than ever. With the rise of germs and illnesses, using hand sanitizer is a great way to keep yourself and others safe. However, not everyone uses hand sanitizer correctly. In this article, we’ll explore the proper way to use hand sanitizer to ensure you’re doing everything you can to stay healthy.

Why Hand Sanitizer is Important

Hand sanitizer is a crucial tool in preventing the spread of germs and illnesses. It’s especially important in high-traffic areas and when you’re in close contact with others, such as in hospitals, schools, and public transportation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hand sanitizer can kill 99.9% of germs on your hands, including the flu virus, norovirus, and strep throat bacteria.

The Right Way to Use Hand Sanitizer

Using hand sanitizer correctly is crucial to its effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using hand sanitizer correctly:

1. Choose the Right Hand Sanitizer: Look for hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol. This is the most effective percentage for killing germs.
2. Apply the Right Amount: Apply a small amount of hand sanitizer to your hands. A pea-sized amount is usually enough.
3. Rub it In: Rub the hand sanitizer all over your hands, including the backs of your hands, in between your fingers, and under your nails.
4. Rub for the Right Amount of Time: Rub the hand sanitizer on your hands for at least 15 seconds. You can hum the “Happy Birthday” song in your head to help keep track of time.
5. Pay Attention to Hard-to-Reach Areas: Don’t forget to rub the hand sanitizer on hard-to-reach areas, such as the tops of your wrists, between your fingers, and under your nails.
6. Let it Dry: Let your hands air dry completely before touching anything or putting on gloves. This is important because moisture can bring back germs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when using hand sanitizer:

• Not using enough hand sanitizer: If you don’t use enough hand sanitizer, you may not be killing enough germs.
• Not rubbing it in long enough: If you don’t rub the hand sanitizer on your hands for at least 15 seconds, you may not be killing all of the germs.
• Not paying attention to hard-to-reach areas: Failing to rub hand sanitizer on hard-to-reach areas can lead to missed germs.
• Touching something before your hands are dry: Touching something before your hands are dry can spread germs back onto your hands.

Using Hand Sanitizer in Special Situations

There are a few special situations where you may need to use hand sanitizer differently:

• Before and after caring for someone who is sick: Use hand sanitizer before and after caring for someone who is sick to prevent the spread of germs.
• Before and after preparing food: Use hand sanitizer before and after preparing food to prevent the spread of germs.
• After using the bathroom and before eating: Use hand sanitizer after using the bathroom and before eating to prevent the spread of germs.

Conclusion

Using hand sanitizer correctly is an important part of staying healthy. By choosing the right hand sanitizer, applying the right amount, rubbing it in for the right amount of time, and paying attention to hard-to-reach areas, you can keep yourself and others safe from germs and illnesses. Remember to avoid common mistakes and use hand sanitizer in special situations. By following these tips, you can keep yourself and others healthy and germ-free.