How long to wash your hands
The NHS advises washing your hands for around 20 seconds, about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
Hand washing, step by step
Based on the NHS technique:
- Wet your hands and apply enough soap to cover them.
- Rub your palms together.
- Rub the back of each hand with the other palm, cleaning between the fingers.
- Rub palm to palm with your fingers interlaced.
- Grip your fingers together and rub the backs of your fingers against your palms.
- Clean each thumb by rubbing it with your other hand.
- Rub your fingertips into the palm of your other hand, then swap.
- Rinse well with water.
- Dry your hands completely with a disposable towel, and use the towel to turn off the tap.
Our poster shows the same technique in 10 illustrated steps.
When to wash your hands
The NHS lists times such as after using the toilet, before eating or handling food, after handling raw food, after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing, before and after treating a wound, and after touching animals. In care settings, always follow your infection prevention and control policy, including hand hygiene before and after supporting someone with personal care.
Download and printPoster (PDF). Free to use in your service.
Download the PDFThis is a quick-reference resource. Always follow the person’s care plan, your organisation’s policies and procedures, and current national guidance.
Sources (checked 16 September 2026): NHS: How to wash your hands (reviewed 27 January 2023).
