95% of people wash their hands the wrong way when going to the toilet

After using the toilet, up to 95% of people do not wash their hands properly and long enough to kill harmful bacteria, according to a new study conducted in the US.

The research team from the University of Michigan trained more than 10 discreet students to observe and collect data on hand washing behavior in the restrooms in bars, restaurants and other local public places.

Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 15 seconds is an effective way to spread infectious diseases.(Photo: Chicago Tribune)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people wash their hands with soap and water for 15 - 20 seconds. However, the survey results show that, on average, those using the toilet only wash their hands for about 6 seconds. Only 5% of people wash their hands for 15 seconds or longer.

The team also found that only half of men use toilets using soap and up to 15% of men do not wash their hands. This figure for women is 78% and 7% respectively. This reinforces the long-held view that women seem cleaner than men in body hygiene.

Researchers also found that people will be less likely to wash their hands when faced with a dirty sink. Conversely, a clean sink will increase the time people clean their hands. People are also more likely to wash their hands earlier in the day and if there are signs that encourage them to do so. This discovery implies that such incentive signs may be particularly useful at men's toilets.

The CDC said that hand washing is one of the most effective ways to eliminate the spread of infectious diseases. Estimated dirty hands have contributed to 50% of outbreaks of food-related diseases over the past time.

Proper washing steps:

The process of hand washing should ensure the cleaning of fingers, backs of hands, fingers, palms.

Step 1: Wet your hands with clean water. Rub soap on palms. Rub your palms together.

Step 2: Use this finger and palm to roll and rotate each finger of the other hand and vice versa.

Step 3: Use this palm to rub the cross over the back of the other hand and vice versa.

Step 4: Use the fingertips of this hand to squeeze between the fingers of the other hand and vice versa.

Step 5: Pinch 5 fingers of this hand rubbing on the other hand by turning, turning.

Step 6: Drain the hands clean all soap under clean water. Dry hands with a clean towel or paper.