Hand Sanitizer vs Handwashing: Which is better?

Every time you touch an object or shake someone’s hand, you are picking up bacteria and potential viruses too. It has been estimated that around 1500 bacteria are living on each square centimeter of skin on our hands. Areas such as underneath the fingernails and between the fingers often harbor even more. It is very easy for these germs and viruses to make their way to your moth, nose and eyes and make you sick.

Hand Sanitizer

These are available in various forms. It is important that the type you choose contains a minimum of 60% alcohol. While being effective they don’t kill all the germs. They do however remove them from your hands. To use effectively apply to the palm of the hand then rub it all over your hands until they are dry covering all parts of your hands and nails.

Handwashing

Proper handwashing is the “gold standard” to removing and killing germs on our hands. Any soap that lathers works in killing and removing germs. When washing your hands use warm water as it removes germs better than cold water. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, as it’s the rubbing of your hands together that removes the germs. Additionally remember to dry your hands completely. If your hands are still wet you will pick up and transmit germs very easily.