Hand Hygiene: Is a Mixture of Water and 70 Alcohol a Good Substitute for Hand Sanitizer?

With the ongoing global health concerns, maintaining proper hand hygiene has become more critical than ever. While the use of hand sanitizers has gained widespread acceptance, the question arises: is a mixture of water and 70% alcohol a viable alternative? In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of this mixture and provide tips for proper hand washing.

Understanding the Role of Alcohol in Hand Hygiene

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, typically containing 60-70% ethyl or isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), have been widely recommended by health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as an effective way to reduce the spread of germs when soap and water are not readily available.

Why is 70% alcohol the best choice? Isopropyl alcohol, used in many over-the-counter hand sanitizers, is highly effective at disinfecting because it can denature proteins and disrupt the virus's structure. However, a mixture of water and 70% alcohol is not recommended as a substitute. Here's why:

Why a Mixture of Water and 70 Alcohol is Not Recommended

A mixture of water and 70% alcohol lacks the purity and alcohol content necessary to effectively kill most germs. The presence of water can dilute the alcohol, reducing its ability to denature proteins and disrupt viral structures. Moreover, alcohol is very drying to the skin, which can cause irritation and even damage over time.

Proper Hand Washing Techniques

For optimal hand hygiene, it is essential to follow the recommended techniques:

Using soap and water: Thoroughly wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cool), then apply soap. Lather your hands by rubbing them together (the back of the hands, between the fingers, and under the nails). Continue to lather for at least 20 seconds, which is roughly the time it takes to sing the 'Happy Birthday' song twice. Ensure that you cover all surfaces of your hands, including palms, the backs of your hands, and between your fingers. Rubbing nails: Rub your fingernails against your palms to remove any remaining germs from under your nails. Thorough rinsing: Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water. Drying: Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dryer.

After washing, it is crucial to apply a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected. Proper hand washing can significantly reduce the spread of germs and protect you from illnesses and infections.

Additional Tips for Safe Hand Hygiene

Avoid the bathroom faucet: The bathroom faucet is often one of the most contaminated surfaces. Turn off the faucet with a paper towel to avoid recontaminating your hands. Similarly, use a paper towel to open the door handle after exiting the restroom. Be vigilant in public washrooms: Some people might pretend to wash their hands by simply applying soap and rinsing it off without actually scrubbing their hands for the recommended time. Make sure to observe proper hand washing techniques, even if you are the only one in the restroom. Stay cautious: Always prioritize safety by following recommended practices to avoid coming into contact with harmful pathogens.

Conclusion

While isopropyl alcohol at 70% is the ideal concentration for an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, a mixture of water and 70% alcohol is not advised as a substitute. For optimal hand hygiene, it is essential to use soap and water, follow proper hand washing techniques, and apply a moisturizer to keep your skin healthy. By doing so, you can effectively reduce the spread of germs and protect yourself and your community from infectious diseases.