Washing your hands with plain soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of germs on them. (Antibacterial soaps don’t kill all the bacteria; they just slow its growth, which may lead to resistant bacteria.) If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands in some situations, but sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs. Remember: hand sanitizers are not effective when hands are visibly dirty.
How should you use hand sanitizer?
■ Apply the product to the palm of one hand.
■ Rub your hands together.
■ Rub the product over all surfaces of your hands and fingers until your hands are dry.
— Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention