How Soap Helps Wash Germs Away

Your hands touch many things each day. They can pick up germs from toys, doors, and other hands.

Germs are tiny things, such as some bacteria and viruses, that can make us sick. Most are too small to see.

Water alone can wash away some dirt. But soap helps lift dirt and germs off your skin.

Soap has tiny parts that stick to grease and dirt. Other parts stick to water. When you rinse, the water carries the soap, dirt, and germs down the drain.

Here is how to wash your hands well. First, wet them with clean, running water. Turn off the tap and add soap.

Rub your hands together to make bubbles. Rub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails, too.

Keep scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. You can hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice to help keep track of time.

Rinse your hands under clean, running water. Then dry them with a clean towel or let them air dry.

Wash before you eat and after you use the bathroom. It is also a good idea to wash after you cough or sneeze into your hands, or after you play outside.