Washing your hands properly removes dirt, viruses and bacteria to stop them spreading to other people and objects, which can spread illnesses such as flu, diarrhoea and food poisoning. It can help stop people from picking up infections and spreading them to others.

It’s also really important for children to learn how and when to keep their hands clean too, as it stops germs from spreading and helps prevent your child and those around them from getting an infection.

How to wash hands

Use warm water and soap and make up a lather on both sides of the hands, wrists, between the fingers and around the nails. (It's a good idea to remove jewellery if possible, before washing your hands.)

You should wash your hands for the amount of time it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" time (around 40 seconds in total)

When to wash hands

  • Before eating or touching food
  • After using the toilet
  • After blowing your nose or coughing
  • After having contact with pets or other animals
  • After playing outside
  • Before and after visiting a sick friend or relative
  • When hands are dirty