HANDWASHING SCIENCE

During the covid pandemic we all became even more tuned in to handwashing. We've probably all heard to wash our hands for 20 seconds, as long as it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice, etc. My husband was hospitalized several times during that period and one of the doctors told me using a good bubbly soap was important. I think most of us just decided, "Okay, whatever, just wash your hands."

During all the hoopla someone decided to give us the science behind handwashing. A study was done and published in Physics of Fluids. It was found that the surfaces of our hands operate as potential wells in which dirt and particles, such as viruses and bacteria, can get stuck. You can get rid of them by using fast-paced movement that loosens them and carries them out of your hands. This takes about 20 seconds of vigorous movement with soapy water to really get the job done. So, remember to use running water, bubble producing soap, and vigorous movement to wash those viruses, etc down the drain.