How many seconds should hands be rubbed together during handwashing?

• A. 20 seconds
• B. 15 seconds
• C. 25 seconds
• D. 30 seconds

Answer: (A)

20 seconds is the recommended minimum for handwashing. This duration gives enough time for soap and friction to lift and rinse away germs from all parts of the hands—palms and backs, between the fingers, under the nails, and at the wrists. Shorter times, like 15 seconds, often miss spots and don’t remove as many microbes. Longer times, such as 25 or 30 seconds, go beyond the minimum but aren’t required for effective cleaning. A common memory aid is to wash for about the length of singing “Happy Birthday” twice.