Frequent Hand Washing at Home: Essential or Excessive?

Is frequent hand washing really necessary when we are at home? Is it just a habit or an essential practice to prevent the spread of infections? With the ongoing spread of the corona virus, the debate over hand washing has intensified. In this article, we will explore the necessity and appropriate frequency of hand washing while at home.

The Reality of Daily Life

When you live in a house with multiple people, it's easy to underestimate the amount of contact you have with various surfaces and objects throughout the day. Consider this: if you live in a busy household, you might have more people coming and going every hour than you think.

For example, just a few days ago, my four housemates and I had a barbecue. We washed our hands before assembling our food, but we touched various surfaces and objects in between. After a while, we returned to the bathroom, where the soapy water from our hands was noticeably grey, even after we had washed them just 45 minutes earlier. This highlights the importance of regular hand washing, even in a seemingly low-risk environment.

Why Hand Washing is Crucial

Hand hygiene is essential, especially during the current pandemic. Not washing your hands regularly can put you and your loved ones at risk of contracting illnesses. Here are some key reasons to prioritize hand washing:

Protection from Viruses: People can bring viruses into your home through various means, such as shopping for groceries, meeting friends, or picking up mail. Even if you have no symptoms, you could be an asymptomatic carrier of the virus. Prevent Transmission: If you have symptoms, wearing a mask and frequent hand washing can help prevent the spread of the virus to others in your household. General Hygiene: Maintaining good hand hygiene is a fundamental aspect of general hygiene. It can help prevent the spread of common germs that cause colds, flu, and other illnesses. Community Health: By washing your hands frequently, you contribute to the overall health of your community. This is especially important as we rely on each other to maintain public health measures.

Does Excessive Hand Washing Cause Harm?

Some argue that hand washing too frequently can lead to skin irritation and other issues. While it's true that excessive hand washing can be harmful, the benefits of regular hand washing far outweigh the risks. However, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

Use Mild Soap: Using harsh soaps or scrubbing too aggressively can irritate your skin. Choose a gentle, moisturizing soap to minimize skin damage. Wash for at Least 20 Seconds: It's recommended to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, which is the length of two "Happy Birthday" songs. Dry Your Hands Properly: Proper drying is essential to prevent water from remaining on your hands, which can lead to skin irritation or the growth of bacteria. Avoid Over-Washing: While it's important to wash your hands regularly, avoid over-washing, especially before eating. This can lead to dry skin and other skin problems.

Conclusion

Regular hand washing is a vital component of maintaining hygiene, especially in the current climate of the corona virus. However, it's also important to maintain balance and not overdo it. Follow best practices and use common sense to ensure both hygiene and skin health.