How long should the total hand washing process take?

The recommendation for the total hand washing process to take at least 20 seconds is based on research that shows this duration is effective in effectively removing pathogens from the hands. This timeframe allows for thorough coverage of all surfaces of the hands, including the backs, between the fingers, and under the nails. The 20-second guideline aligns with public health recommendations, such as those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which emphasize the importance of lengthening the time spent washing hands to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and other infections.

During this duration, it's important to use soap and water, as the soap plays a crucial role in breaking down oils and dirt that may harbor germs, while the friction from rubbing the hands together helps to physically remove them. The length of time is key, as too short an interval may not adequately achieve thorough cleaning, leaving harmful microorganisms behind.