Germs can get onto your hands and items you touch throughout the day. When your hands may be dirty, it's best to 

wash with soap and water to remeve.whatever germs and chemicate may be on hand.

Warm or Cold water?

Either is fine, as long as it's clean.

Does the soap have to beantibacterial to work?

No plain soap and water works just as well.

What if l don't have soap,but l have access to water?

Using soap to wash hands is more effective than using water alone, but if water is all you have, rub your hands together under it and wipe off with aclean towel or air dry.When hands are not visibly dirty you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that containsat least 60% alcohol.

How long do l need to scrub when washing my hands?

Scrubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds is most effective,

Do l have to clean under my fingernails?

Yes, germs like to hide under fingernails.Make sure to clean there, too.

Towel or air dry?

Either is fine, but if you're using a towel make sure it's clean.

Should l use a paper towel to turn off the faucet or open the door of a public bathroom?

There isn't much scientific evidence about this. If you are concerned about getting germs on your hands after you wash them, you can use a paper towel to turn on faucet or open door handles.

What if l don't have soap orwater to wash my hands?

lf soap and water are not available,use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.Alcohol-based hand sanitizers canquickly kill most types of germs on the hands but may not kill certainbacteria and viruses that cause diarrhea. You should wash your hands before eating or after using the restroom.

Protect yourself and others by washing your hands with soap and water.