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