Handwashing and hand sanitising are both forms of hand hygiene, but they work differently. Handwashing removes contamination with soap, water and rinsing; alcohol-based hand sanitiser reduces many germs without a sink.
Handwashing removes material
Soap, water and rubbing loosen dirt, grease, organic matter and microorganisms so they can be rinsed away. This makes handwashing especially important when hands are visibly soiled.
Hand sanitising inactivates many germs
Alcohol-based hand sanitiser acts on microorganisms while the product is rubbed over the hands until dry. It does not physically rinse away dirt or all contaminants.
Healthcare often prefers alcohol-based hand rub
CDC recommends alcohol-based hand sanitizer for most routine clinical situations when hands are not visibly soiled because it is effective, convenient and supports adherence.
Soap and water has specific roles
CDC recommends soap and water when hands are visibly soiled, before eating, after using the restroom, and in certain outbreak situations involving organisms for which handwashing is preferred.
Community settings differ
For community use, CDC generally recommends soap and water when available. If soap and water are not readily available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can be an alternative when hands are not visibly dirty.
The methods are not automatically layered
Routine practice does not require using sanitizer immediately after every handwash. Follow the setting-specific hand-hygiene procedure rather than adding unnecessary steps.
Practical takeaway
Handwashing removes; alcohol-based sanitising inactivates. Choose the method according to the setting, the condition of the hands and the applicable hand-hygiene guidance.
