Head-to-toe hygiene is a high priority for each one of us and these days, keeping your hands clean is essential to prevent the coronavirus from spreading. Whether you’re using a sanitizer or washing your hands with soap, you’re on the right track as this habit will help you keep micro germs and viruses away. But, the question is – hand sanitizer vs washing hands – which one is better?
Are Sanitizers Good Enough?
There is no doubt that sanitizers are now a staple in every purse, pocket or even keychain. These small bottles are a convenient way to clean your hands, are more portable and accessible on the go, which helps reduce the transmission of viruses. It is a perfect option when soap and water are not available. Unfortunately, hand sanitizers are not effective against all types of viruses such as the norovirus which may cause diarrhoea. So while they definitely serve a purpose, they’re not a perfect prophylactic. Some sanitizers also may leave residue on the hand which may feel slick or uncomfortable on the skin.
Why Should You Prefer Soap and Water?
Though we find big bottles of sanitizers at the doctor’s clinics, as per health experts, soap and water are a better choice anytime over the sanitizers. Soap and water are simply more thorough as washing hands kill the bacteria more effectively and sanitizers don’t remove the actual dirt and debris. Soap kills germs, binds them, and helps physically remove them with water, off your skin and down the drain. One can try using antibacterial soaps if one wants to go the extra mile for the best results but even normal soaps would kill the viruses.
So in the end, if we squeeze up, sanitizers are good as second alternatives only when soap and water are not available. Hand sanitizers are great in a pinch and are more convenient, but soap and water ultimately are better.
We hope this article helps you understand what works between a hand sanitizer vs washing hands. Do leave your thoughts in the comments below. For more safety and hygiene tips, do visit GOQii Play and watch LIVE videos by experts!
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