How long should hands be vigorously rubbed together when washing?

The guideline for how long to vigorously rub your hands together when washing them is based on the need to effectively remove dirt, germs, and potential harmful microorganisms. Rubbing hands together for 15-30 seconds ensures that you create enough friction and soap lather to thoroughly clean all surfaces of your hands, including areas that are often missed, such as between the fingers, under the nails, and around the thumbs.

During this timeframe, the soap works to break down oils and debris, while the physical act of rubbing helps lift these contaminants off the skin. This duration is supported by health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which emphasize that proper hand hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of infections. A duration less than 15 seconds may not provide sufficient cleaning, while exceeding 30 seconds may not add significant benefits but could lead to skin irritation if done too frequently. Thus, 15-30 seconds is optimal for effective hand hygiene practices.