Top Handwashing Errors That Can Lead to Increased Germs and Viruses

Handwashing is a simple yet vital practice that has the potential to save millions of lives annually. Nonetheless, many individuals unknowingly fail to wash their hands properly, often due to persistent myths about the practice. Experts highlight that proper handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is essential in minimizing the transmission of infectious diseases.

Insights from the NFID 2025 State of Handwashing Report

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases has released the 2025 State of Handwashing Report. This report examines Americans’ habits surrounding handwashing, revealing key mistakes and misconceptions. The survey analyzed responses from 3,587 U.S. adults, gathered between November and December 2024 and March 2025.

Understanding Inadequate Handwashing Techniques

Dr. Robert Hopkins Jr., medical director of NFID in Maryland, expressed concerns about common errors related to handwashing. He emphasized that many infections are not effectively prevented by hand sanitizers. For instance, norovirus, a highly contagious stomach virus often linked to cruise ships, can spread year-round and cannot be eradicated using hand sanitizers.

Instead, soap and water can easily eliminate the virus. Hopkins stated, “Norovirus is easily destroyed with soap and water, making it crucial to wash hands thoroughly to combat this infectious disease.”

The Effectiveness of Soap and Water

According to Hopkins, certain viruses can be labeled as encapsulated or unencapsulated. Encapsulated viruses, which include the flu, can be effectively neutralized by either soap and water or hand sanitizers. Conversely, unencapsulated viruses maintain an outer coat that resists breakdown from alcohol-based products. Thus, soap and water remain a superior method for killing germs.

Moreover, when a person coughs or sneezes into their sleeve, germs can still be transmitted afterward. Hopkins noted, “If you cough into your sleeve, you should wash your hands with soap and water afterward to ensure thorough cleanliness.”

The Importance of Regular Handwashing

People often touch their faces, which raises the risk of transferring bacteria and viruses into their mucous membranes, as noted by the physician. Hopkins said, “We frequently bring our hands close to our face and touch our nose, glasses, and other facial areas. This behavior can introduce pathogens into our system, leading to potential infections.”

The NFID report indicated that 25 percent of adults reported washing their hands more frequently during the fall and winter months. This seasonal spike is understandable given the prevalence of respiratory diseases such as the flu and respiratory syncytial virus during these times.

Year-Round Vigilance is Necessary

Despite the seasonal trends, the report emphasizes that other infectious agents, including those causing the common cold and norovirus, can transmit throughout the entire year. Maintaining proper hand hygiene is essential not only during peak seasons but all year round to remain healthy.

Survey Findings on Handwashing Habits

According to the NFID report, most adults reported washing their hands after specific activities. Sixty-nine percent washed their hands after using the bathroom, 48 percent after preparing food, and 39 percent after handling human or animal waste. However, alarmingly, only 30 percent of respondents stated they are likely to wash their hands after coughing or sneezing.

Additionally, nearly half of the individuals surveyed admitted to sometimes forgetting or consciously opting not to wash their hands after visiting high-traffic locations such as grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. Hopkins highlighted the necessity to reinforce the significance of diligent handwashing practices.

Public Health Campaigns and Education

In recent years, public health campaigns focused primarily on healthcare settings, leaving many individuals uninformed about hand hygiene in daily life. “We need to integrate handwashing back into everyday public health discourse, ensuring everyone is educated about its importance,” Hopkins advised.

Through consistent handwashing practices, experts believe that society could potentially save a substantial number of lives each year. “If everyone washed their hands more consistently, we could likely save around a million lives annually,” stated Hopkins.

Final Thoughts on Handwashing

As the understanding of hand hygiene evolves, every individual holds the responsibility to commit to proper handwashing techniques. Ensuring thorough hand hygiene can significantly mitigate the spread of infectious diseases and promote public health.

Embracing proper hand hygiene habits is not just a seasonal affair but a continuous commitment to personal and community health.