How long should you wash your hands with soap to ensure cleanliness?

Washing hands with soap for 20 seconds is widely recommended as it effectively removes pathogens and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses. This duration allows sufficient time for the soap to break down oils and lift dirt and germs from the skin. Public health guidelines, including those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), advocate for this length of time to ensure thorough cleaning.

Studies have shown that washing hands for less than 20 seconds may not effectively eliminate infectious microorganisms. Therefore, the recommended time helps ensure that all areas of the hands, including between fingers and under nails, are adequately cleaned. This practice is particularly critical in food safety, as proper hand hygiene is one of the fundamental measures to prevent contamination and maintain public health.