How Can Handwashing and Sanitizing Beat COVID-19?

It’s always important to wash your hands. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is even more critical. Businesses are beginning to reopen, and temporary rules are relaxing, but you shouldn’t let your guard down. You may find yourself out of the house more, so hand hygiene should be your priority in order to protect your health. Your dentist in Somerville shares why it’s necessary to wash your hands often and how to do it properly.

Handwashing During the Pandemic

Washing your hands is one of the best ways to prevent yourself from becoming ill. When something is spreading around, like COVID-19, regularly disinfecting your hands is a big step to take to avoid getting sick.

When Should I Wash My Hands?

You should always practice hand hygiene throughout the day, but especially in these situations:

• After using the restroom
• Before preparing food
• After sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose
• Before eating
• After shaking hands
• When you return from a public outing
• After caring for someone who is sick

How Do I Properly Wash My Hands?

1. Position your hands under clean, running water.

2. Apply a generous amount of soap to your hands and lather. Be sure to get the back, inside, and fingertips. Continue this for at least 20 seconds.

3. Rub your hands together and use your fingertips to scrub.

4. Place both hands under the running water to rinse away all of the soap.

5. Use an air dryer or a disposable paper towel to dry your hands. Cloth towels can hold onto more germs.

Using Hand Sanitizer During the Pandemic

Handwashing with soap and water is the best way to ensure that your hands are disinfected. When you are not in a situation where you are able to wash your hands, sanitizer is the next best thing.

What Do I Need to Know About Hand Sanitizer?

Be sure to keep these things in mind when you use a sanitizer:

• Don’t use hand sanitizer if your hands are greasy or dirty.

• The alcohol in sanitizers can dry out your skin. Use a moisturizer if this happens.

• Choose a hand sanitizer that is between 60-95% alcohol.

• Handwashing is the best option! Sanitizer should only be used if you do not have access to soap and water.

How Do I Effectively Use Hand Sanitizer?

1. Check the label of the sanitizer to determine how much to use. Apply that amount to the palm of your hand.

2. Rub it all over both hands. Don’t forget about the back and the fingertips.

3. Continue for about 20 seconds or until it dries.

Out of all the precautions that you are taking to stay healthy, regularly disinfecting your hands is amongst the most important. Whether you are handwashing or using a sanitizer, be sure you are using it correctly so you can keep yourself and others from getting sick.

About the Author

Dr. DawnMarie DiGrazia practices at Somerset Dental Arts in Somerville, NJ. She has well over 20 years of dental experience and is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the New Jersey Dental Association. She believes that regular handwashing is one of the best things you can do to prevent getting sick. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (908) 722-2999.