Alcohol vs Soap! (How to wash your hands properly)

In a pinch, hand sanitizer can disinfect if it’s at least 60% alcohol.

But hands down, soap and water is the most effective way to remove chemicals and all kinds of germs, including the novel coronavirus, infectious disease experts say.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends frequent handwashing for at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.

Why is soap and water better? For starters, there are limits to how well hand sanitizers disinfect. Soap combined with running water is by far the best way to eliminate germs from our hands. That's because soap molecules, themselves, are very effective at destroying the surface membranes of some bacteria and viruses, including the novel coronavirus.

In addition, the lathering of hands and scrubbing thoroughly creates friction that helps lift and wash away dirt, grease and microbes under running water.

Soap takes a little time to work — at least 20 seconds to disinfect your hands completely. That's about the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.

So hum or sing along as you follow the CDC’s recommended handwashing steps:

1.)Wet your hands with clean running water (warm or cold) and apply soap.
2.)Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. 
3.)Scrub all surfaces of your hands, including the palms, backs, fingers, the skin between your fingers and also under your nails.
4.)Rinse your hands under clean, running water that is not too hot to tolerate.
5.)Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
These steps can make all the difference in protecting you and your loved ones

STAY SAFE!!