American Cleaning Institute Participates in Global Handwashing Day with Survey

Each year on October 15, Global Handwashing Day highlights the importance of handwashing with soap and water, especially during key times throughout the day. 
 
The theme for this year is: Unite for Hand Hygiene. 
 
In a survey conducted earlier this year, the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) found that 93% of respondents found handwashing important in preventing the spread of illness at home.
 
“Over the past two years, we have had stark reminders about the importance, impact and necessity of essential hand hygiene practices,” said Melissa Hockstad, ACI president & CEO. “Washing your hands with soap and water remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious disease. Having a hand sanitizer handy is a great ‘go-to’ if you’re not near soap and water.”
 
She continued, “Stopping the spread of disease starts with each of us, in our homes, schools, communities and workplaces”.

Five Steps for Proper Handwashing Etiquette  

The ACI recommends the following steps for proper handwashing practices:
 

• Wet hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap;
• Lather hands by rubbing them together with soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between fingers, and under nails;
• Scrub hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice;
• Rinse hands well under clean, running water;
• Dry hands using a clean towel or air dry them;
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

 
Additionally, it’s important to take note of the following key times to wash hands:
 
Before, during and after preparing food;
Before and after caring for someone who is sick;
After blowing the nose, coughing or sneezing, handling garbage and directly handling dirty laundry.

For more information about Global Handwashing Day and ways to integrate proper handwashing as a long-lasting habit, go here.