Handwashing at any time of the day can help get rid of germs, but there are key times when it’s most important to wash your hands.
Before, during, and after preparing food
Before eating food • Before and after caring for someone who is sick
Before and after treating a cut or wound
After using the bathroom, changing diapers, or cleaning up a child who has used the bathroom
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
After touching an animal, animal food or treats, animal cages, or animal feces (poop)
After touching garbage
If your hands are visibly dirty or greasy