What is the recommended time for washing hands during the hand washing process?

The recommended time for washing hands is actually 20 seconds. This duration is emphasized by health organizations to ensure that all surfaces of the hands—between fingers, under nails, and the backs of hands—are effectively cleaned. The 20-second guideline is based on research showing that this amount of time is significantly more effective than shorter washing times at removing pathogens, dirt, and debris. This practice is particularly important in food safety, as properly washed hands can prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses and protect public health.

While shorter durations may seem sufficient, they do not provide enough time for thorough cleaning, which is essential, especially in food preparation settings where hygiene is critical.