What's The Cleanest Way To Dry Your Hands After Washing Them?

One tried-and-true method to help limit the spread of germs is, of course, washing your hands. But we need to talk about drying your hands.

At this point, we're likely all well aware that washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water is considered the gold standard. But the last step—drying your freshly washed hands—is all too often overlooked. And as it turns out, drying isn't a step you want to miss.

The importance of drying completely

That's because the transmission of bacteria, which clings to moisture, is more likely to happen between wet skin than dry2. Drying your hands takes care of the moisture, as well as some of that transference if you're using a paper towel, which will go in the trash.

Not only that, but over-washing (especially with hot water) can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing the skin to dry out and crack. This open skin is then at a greater risk of infection. But one study by Rutgers University from 2017 actually found hot water isn't any more effective in killing germs than cold.

What about air dryers?

Once your hands have been washed, there is a proper way to dry them.

According to the World Health Organization, hands should be dried thoroughly with either a paper towel or a warm air dryer3. But there are studies that suggest hand dryers actually blow germs around, which is why they may be best avoided, especially in settings like hospitals and clinics.

If they're your only option, it's better than nothing to get your hands dry. However, disposable paper towels would seem to be the best bet. (Cloth towels can hold on to germs.)