When cooking, keeping your hands clean is super important for food safety. It helps stop germs that can make us sick. Here’s how you can keep your hands clean while you cook!

1. Wash Your Hands Correctly

The first step to clean hands is washing them well. Follow these simple steps:

• Wet your hands: Use warm water to wet them.
• Apply soap: Use soap to lather up; it doesn’t have to be fancy, just effective.
• Scrub: Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Don’t forget the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails!
• Rinse: Rinse your hands under running water.
• Dry: Use a clean towel, paper towel, or let them air dry.

2. When to Wash Your Hands

It's really important to wash your hands at specific times, especially when you're cooking. Here are some times you should wash:

• Before handling food: Always wash your hands before you start cooking, even if your kitchen looks clean.
• After using the restroom: This is very important! Always wash your hands after going to the bathroom.
• After touching raw meat, poultry, or seafood: These can have harmful germs.
• After handling garbage: If you touch waste, wash your hands right away.
• After sneezing, coughing, or touching your face: Germs can spread easily this way.

3. Use Gloves When Needed

While washing your hands is key, there are times when wearing gloves is a good idea. Here’s when to use them:

• Handling raw meats: It’s safer to wear gloves when working with raw meat and poultry.
• Preparing foods that won’t be cooked: If you’re making salads or sandwiches that won’t be heated, gloves can help keep things clean.
• If you have cuts or wounds: Wear gloves to protect your wound and ensure the food stays clean.

4. How to Use Gloves Properly

If you decide to wear gloves, keep these tips in mind:

• Change gloves often: Just like with washing your hands, change gloves frequently, especially when working with different foods.
• Don’t wash and reuse gloves: Unlike hands, gloves shouldn’t be washed. Throw them away after using them once.
• Wash your hands after taking off gloves: Always wash your hands after removing gloves because they can still have germs on them.

5. Keep the Kitchen Clean

Remember, being clean isn’t just about your hands. Keep your cooking area and utensils clean to reduce the chance of germs. Clean surfaces with hot, soapy water before you start, and sanitize cutting boards and countertops after handling raw foods.

By following these simple hand-cleaning tips, you can make sure your meals are not just tasty but also safe. Happy cooking!