How Often Should You Wash Your Hands
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that we wash our hands after we use the bathroom or before we prepare food to prevent the spread of bacteria and other germs.
It is also a good idea for you to wash your hands immediately after gardening especially when dealing with soil.
Soil contains a lot of microorganisms that help to decompose dead organisms as well as provide food for plant roots. Besides these microorganisms, soil contains bacteria, fungi, and other organisms too small to be seen with the naked eye. No harm washing those things away!
Proper Way To Wash Your Hands
The best way to wash your hands after gardening is with soap and water. You should scrub the dirt off with soap, rinse, and then dry them with a clean towel. It is important to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Liquid Soap over Bar Soap
There are many options for soap bars and liquid soaps. Liquid soap is often more popular because it is easier to use. It is also less likely to drip and make a mess, which makes it more convenient for people who don’t want to clean up their bathroom each time they shower or wash their hands.
There are many benefits of using liquid soap over the traditional bar form. For one, it is easier to use, making it great for people with disabilities. Liquid soap does not drip like traditional bar soap does which makes it much less messy than the other option which can be a major concern for those who live in small spaces or don’t want to clean up after themselves each time they wash their hands.
As gardeners, liquid soaps have a greater benefit because you want to minimize any physical interactions when your hands are dirty. Using liquid soaps allows for automatic soap dispensing without the need for physical contact. This reduces the chances of germs spreading and keeps everything contained within the basin.
Touch-Free Rechargeable Sensor Liquid Soap Pump Dispenser; Amazon.com; $64.99
Popular Soaps For Gardeners
As a gardener, you will often come into greater contact with germs as compared to people who don’t work with plants. It is important to use soap that is proven to kill germs and keep you safe.
Generally speaking, any type of soap is fine but frequent washing can lead to dryness in the skin, which can make you feel uncomfortable and may even lead to cracking in your skin.
Here are some soaps that have been tested & shown to be effective in not only killing germs but also being gentle on your skin.
Everyone Liquid Hand Soap; Amazon.com; from $14.37
Their gentle formula features natural ingredients like essential oils and botanical extracts, without the use of sulfates, synthetic dyes, or phthalates. It also smells good and leaves your skin soft.
Softsoap Moisturizing Liquid; Amazon.com; from $5.88
The whipped formula is infused with milk protein and sweet honey to make sure your skin never gets dry. Reviewers with eczema & sensitive skin also found the formula didn’t cause any irritation nor did it worsen their condition. Plus, the price can’t be beaten!
Alaffia Everyday Shea Foaming Hand Soap; Amazon.com; $11.49
Coconut oil and shea butter are some of the most nourishing ingredients you can find. Having them in your soap will make it easier for your skin to absorb, locking in moisture and keeping skin looking fresh and healthy.
