Should hand washing be prioritized over hand sanitizer?

Hand washing should be prioritized over hand sanitizer primarily because it is more effective in removing certain types of contaminants. The mechanical action of scrubbing with soap and water helps to physically dislodge pathogens and dirt from the skin. This method is particularly effective against a variety of germs, including certain viruses, bacteria, and especially when dealing with visible dirt or organic material.

While hand sanitizer can be a convenient alternative when soap and water are not readily available, it is not as effective in situations involving heavily soiled hands or specific pathogens, such as the norovirus or Clostridium difficile, which are resilient to alcohol-based hand rubs. Therefore, promoting hand washing as the first line of defense, especially in healthcare and food preparation settings, underscores its superior efficacy compared to hand sanitizers in many scenarios.

Prioritizing hand washing aligns with public health guidelines, particularly in the context of infectious disease prevention. This understanding reinforces the critical role of proper hygiene practices.