Short Answer 
To maintain proper hygiene, follow the CDC’s five-step handwashing procedure: wet, lather, scrub, rinse, and dry your hands. It’s crucial to wash hands at key times, such as after using the bathroom and before eating. Additionally, keep your surroundings clean by using sanitized utensils, having hand sanitizers available, and considering disposable gloves during cleaning.
Step 1: Follow the CDC’s Five-Step Handwashing Procedure
Practicing correct personal hygiene begins with proper handwashing. To do this effectively, follow the CDC’s five-step procedure. This ensures that you wash away harmful pathogens and includes:
- Wet hands with warm, running water.
- Apply soap and lather well.
- Scrub all surfaces of your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water.
- Dry hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
Step 2: Know When to Wash Your Hands
It’s essential to wash your hands during critical times to prevent infections. Be aware of specific situations when handwashing is crucial, such as:
- After using the bathroom.
- Before and after handling raw meat.
- Before eating or touching your face.
- After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
Step 3: Maintain Surrounding Cleanliness
In addition to personal hand hygiene, maintaining the cleanliness of your surroundings is vital. This includes keeping kitchen surfaces and utensils clean to reduce the risk of pathogen spread. Employ these practices:
- Use clean utensils and surfaces when preparing food.
- Keep hand sanitizers accessible for situations where soap and water aren’t available.
- Consider wearing disposable gloves during cleaning, but remember they do not replace handwashing.