Routine skin cleansers

Handwashing is universally accepted as being the one of the simplest ways to prevent the spread of infection. The objective of a hand wash is to physically remove dirt and debris from the skin.  This action will also remove any loosely held bacteria on the skin - also referred to as transient flora.  Skin cleansers help to lift soil (dirt) and bacteria from the skin, in combination with the physical rubbing of the hands. 

Hand washing, also called a routine wash in healthcare should always be performed after exposure to bodily fluids, using the bathroom, going to the toilet, and before food preparation.  

To ensure an optimum hand wash, make sure hands are wet before applying an adequate amount of cleanser.  Gently rub all surfaces of the hands and in-between fingers and rinse hands thoroughly.