According to hand hygiene guidelines, how many seconds should you use friction when washing your hands?

Using friction while washing your hands for at least 20 seconds is based on guidelines established by health organizations, like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This duration is effective because it allows enough time to generate friction, which is crucial for removing dirt, germs, and pathogens from the surfaces of your hands.

The process includes scrubbing all parts of the hands—front and back, between the fingers, and under the nails. This thorough washing is vital for ensuring optimal hand hygiene, particularly in preventing the spread of infections and diseases. By adequately following this guideline, individuals can significantly enhance the effectiveness of handwashing in maintaining their health and the health of others around them.