Spread Awareness Instead of Germs with Global Handwashing Day

Handwashing seems like a relevant topic…well always. We do it daily, multiple times a day. It helps us maintain hand hygiene. It helps us prevent our germs from transferring to other hands, doorknobs, and other shared objects.

In honor of Global Handwashing Day—which is Oct. 15 (put it in your mobile calendar)—we’re going through the tips you may miss every time you lather your mitts.

Now, you’re probably thinking: Okay, I’m an adult; I know how to wash my hands. Well, would you believe us if we told you only five percent of adults wash their hands properly after using the restroom? Michigan State University proves it’s true. Let us explain.

Most of us know the magic number, recommended by the CDC, is at least 20 seconds to wash your hands. But did you know not drying your hands completely can also spread germs? Yeah, like 1000X more germs. Woof. Did you also know you should wet your hands before you use soap and start to wash?  

Wash This Way

If you’re among the 95 percent of people who aren’t washing their hands properly—it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 below. We can all have a hand in protecting our health and each other’s.

1. 1. Wet your hands with water (warm or cold) and apply soap.
2. 2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Don’t forget your thumbs!
3. 3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Here are 20 songs for 20 seconds, because the birthday song can get old (get the joke?).
4. 4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
5. 5. Dry completely your hands using a clean towel, paper towel or hand dryer.

Finally, make a point to wash your hands every time you sit down to eat, grab a snack or use the restroom. It’s an easy habit to form and a way to do your part.

Support This Way

If you want to do more than properly wash your hands, you can spread awareness (instead of germs), get involved in causes, like Global Handwashing Partnership, or upgrade to a touchless restroom.

Visit globalhandwashing.org to find ways you can promote hand hygiene or give to the cause through virtual events and more. You can also share their material or follow us on LinkedIn to repost their message while saving a step or two.

You can install Touchless Solutions within your facility’s restrooms too. From flush to wash to dry, make the entire experience hands-free and worry-free for your staff and guests. Our fixtures and hand dryers activate using sensor technology detecting the user without delay or wasting water.

Finally, if you know of a healthcare facility in need of touchless sensor flush valves or faucets, you can direct them to our donation page to see if they qualify.

As always, air five for your efforts!