Handwashing is encouraged year-round, but it’s especially important during cold and flu season, which typically runs from October through May. With new viruses appearing every year, it’s essential to take care to prevent the spread of germs and infection. Whether you’re using a public portable toilet or are in the privacy of your own home, these tips can help you stay healthy.

How to Properly Wash Your Hands 

1. Wash Your Hands Often

The Centers for Disease Control recommends people always wash their hands after using a toilet, but in many other instances, too. Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after eating, preparing food, changing diapers, cleaning a bathroom, and after touching garbage. Handwashing is also crucial after treating a wound, handling an animal or their waste, blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, and caring for someone who is sick.

2. Make Sure You Wash Long Enough

The most effective way to wash your hands is with soap and water, but even then, it isn’t as effective if you fail to follow these steps. Keep in mind that antibacterial soaps are no better than plain soap; it’s the scrubbing away of germs through friction that matters most. Start by wetting your hands with either cold or warm water. Apply soap and lather your hands all over, scrubbing in between your fingers and under your nails. Scrub slowly, making sure that you keep rubbing for no less than 20 seconds. Rinse your hands in clean water and dry using a clean towel. Use another paper towel to open and close the door afterward.

3. Use an Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer If Necessary

Hand sanitizer hasn’t been proven to be as effective at eliminating germs as handwashing, but using alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is better than not washing your hands at all. Many offices, shopping centers, and portable toilets come equipped with hand sanitizer for convenience. Spread a tablespoon’s worth of sanitizer into your palm and rub your hands together until the liquid has completely dried on your hands. Sanitizer should only be used if there is no visible dirt on your hands. If your hands are dirty, seek out soap and water instead.

Econ-O-Johns in Waterloo, IL, not only offers their clients portable toilets in a variety of designs, but they also provide handwashing stations, too. Flushing, handicap, and standard port-a-potties are available on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, and adding handwashing and shower stations is quick and convenient. Call (618) 939-3001 to book equipment for your next event or visit their website to learn more about their services.