Global Handwashing Day: When Handwashing Matters Most for Your Family
Global Handwashing Day, on October 15, is a simple prompt to give one of our most everyday habits a little attention.
At Orleans Family Health Clinic, we know busy households do not always have time to think about it. A small, steady routine at home goes a long way.
The steps, in plain language
The Public Health Agency of Canada has a step-by-step handwashing guide you can print or share. In short:
- Wet your hands with water.
- Apply soap.
- Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds, including your palms, the backs of your hands, between your fingers, your thumbs and under your nails.
- Rinse well with clean water.
- Dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Use the cloth or paper towel to turn off the tap.
When there is no sink nearby
If soap and water are not available, a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is a good backup. Rub it over your hands for 20 seconds or until dry. If your hands are visibly dirty, remove as much of the dirt as you can first, with a wet wipe for example.
A reminder as flu season gets going
Handwashing is one of several everyday habits that help through the colder months, and staying up to date on vaccines is another. See our post on RSV and flu shots this season.
Helping kids build the habit
Children pick up habits by watching and doing. Make handwashing part of the routine around meals, wash alongside them, and turn 20 seconds into a game, such as singing a favourite song together. For more ideas on keeping kids healthy through the school year, see our back-to-school health tips for families.
Global Handwashing Day is organized by the Global Handwashing Partnership. A few seconds at the sink is one of the easiest ways to look after your family’s health.
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