What is the correct way to wash your hands?

Washing hands properly is essential to reduce the spread of pathogens and ensure food safety. Using warm water alongside soap enhances the effectiveness of cleaning by helping to dissolve grease and grime more effectively than cold water. Warm water is also more comfortable to use, which encourages thorough washing.

After washing with soap and warm water, it is important to dry hands using a single-use towel or an air-dryer. This step removes any remaining bacteria and contaminants that may have been loosened during the washing process. Using a single-use towel is particularly effective because it can be used to turn off the faucet and open doors, further minimizing the risk of re-contaminating clean hands.

In contrast, simply washing with cold water is less effective, as it may not adequately remove dirt and germs. Washing hands only when visibly dirty misses many instances of contamination that can occur without visible signs. Soaking hands in sanitizer solution doesn't replace the need for thorough hand washing, as sanitizers are less effective when hands are dirty or greasy. Proper handwashing is a vital practice in any food handling environment, ensuring safety and hygiene.