Hand Washing Frequency: A Compulsive Yet Essential Habit

Hand washing is a blissful necessity that most of us perform without giving it much thought. The frequency of our hand washing habits can vary greatly, from a generous 20-second routine to the occasional wet wipe on the steering wheel. This article delves into the myriad times hands are washed and highlights the importance of maintaining proper hygiene practices.

The Full 20 Seconds

“Really” once before I take my nap, and whenever I lie down to watch TV, I apply a dab of generic Vaseline to my hands because ‘really’ washing my hands can dry out my skin. However, the “really” mentioned here refers to a more rigorous 20-second hand wash with soap and water, which is more than just a quick rinse.

Washing my hands after every use of the restroom is a non-negotiable. A quick wet wipe on the steering wheel can also help gauge whether I need to wash even more frequently.

A Compulsive Routine

My relationship with hand washing is deeply rooted in compulsion. For example, even before the 2009-2010 H1N1 flu pandemic, I washed my hands thoroughly every time I went outside the house, after every bathroom break, and virtually all the time. My boys are no different; any dirt, food, or mucosal contact on their hands was cause for immediate hand washing.

Proper hand washing has always been a part of my daily routine, and recent global events have only amplified its importance. However, an exact number of hand washing times is difficult to pin down. I have been known to wash my hands so frequently that I develop contact dermatitis, a painful rash that worsens with repeated exposure to water.

Hand Washing in Public and Private

Hand washing is a regular part of my life, especially after entering my apartment, after removing outside shoes, and before and after performing tasks such as cooking, eating, and applying makeup. When in public, I ensure I wash my hands before using the restroom, after, and before eating, among other activities.

Even before the covid-19 outbreak, hand washing before using anything in the kitchen was a standard practice. Now, it's even more essential to wash hands as frequently as possible.

According to personal estimation, I wash my hands around 10 times a day. This routine, although crucial, sometimes leads to adverse skin reactions. Nonetheless, the benefits of maintaining hand hygiene far outweigh the discomfort.

In conclusion, the frequency of hand washing, whether it’s 10 times a day, once every bathroom use, or a thorough 20-second wash, can vary among individuals but is vital for public health and personal well-being.