What is the recommended duration for handwashing?

The recommended duration for handwashing is 20 seconds, as this time frame is sufficient to ensure that soap effectively removes dirt, grease, and pathogens from the hands. Research and guidelines from health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), indicate that washing hands for at least 20 seconds helps to reduce the number of germs and the risk of foodborne illness.

During this 20-second period, it is important to thoroughly scrub all parts of the hands, including the back of the hands, between the fingers, and under the nails, to achieve maximum effectiveness in eliminating harmful microorganisms. Shorter durations, such as 10 or 15 seconds, may not allow enough time for the soap to work effectively, leading to inadequate cleaning. While 30 seconds may not harm the effectiveness, it goes beyond the recommended time and may not be necessary for achieving proper hand hygiene.