How can you wash your hands without spreading germs when you touch the tap handle?
– Cecilia*
This is a great question: There you are, doing the right thing by washing your hands for 15 seconds or more with warm water and plenty of soap. Then you realize that, to turn off the tap, you have to touch the same handle you touched when your hands were dirty!
Experts recommend using a paper towel to turn the tap off after washing hands. Some people also use a paper towel to open the restroom door when they leave.
Of course, not all restrooms have paper towels. And some surfaces outside restrooms are bigger germ hangouts than those inside (desks, keyboards, and shopping cart handles, for example). So it's a good idea to carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to use before you eat, after you blow your nose, etc.
Studies prove that good hand washing habits keep infections at bay. So wash your hands well and often, but don't worry too much about hidden germs on taps, sinks, and other places. Most teens have strong immune systems that can cope with these.
For more information, read these articles:
Hand Washing
Why Should I Care About Germs?
Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date reviewed: October 2007
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Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area.
*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.
