What is the recommended handwashing duration?

• A. At least 20 seconds of thorough washing.
• B. 2 minutes.
• C. 30 seconds
• D. 5 seconds

Answer: (A)

The key point is using enough time to allow soap and friction to remove germs from all hand surfaces. The recommended minimum is at least 20 seconds of thorough washing. This duration is long enough to cover palms, backs of hands, between fingers, around fingernails, and thumbs, ensuring pathogens are loosened and rinsed away. Washing for only a few seconds won’t give soap and rubbing time to do their job, so five seconds is far too short. Thirty seconds exceeds the minimum and is acceptable, but the standard baseline typically taught is at least 20 seconds. Two minutes is longer than necessary for routine hand hygiene. After washing, dry thoroughly and, if possible, use a clean towel to turn off the faucet to avoid recontamination.