How long should you lather your hands with soap while washing?

The recommended duration for lathering your hands with soap while washing is at least 20 seconds. This amount of time is considered effective to ensure that soap can effectively remove dirt, grease, and pathogens from the skin. Washing for 20 seconds provides enough time for the friction created by rubbing your hands together to help dislodge any contaminants. The focus is also on making sure that all areas of the hands are cleaned, including the backs of the hands, between the fingers, and under the nails.

Shorter durations might not allow for adequate cleaning and can lead to the potential spread of germs and bacteria. Therefore, adhering to the 20-second guideline is vital for maintaining proper hygiene, especially in food-safe environments where the risk of contamination is significant.