How long should you wash your hands after handling allergenic product?

Washing your hands for 20 seconds after handling allergenic products is the recommended practice because it allows sufficient time to effectively remove any allergens that may be present on your hands. Handwashing involves not only rinsing with water but also thoroughly scrubbing all surfaces of your hands, including between your fingers and under your nails. This duration is supported by health guidelines, as it is proven to significantly reduce the presence of harmful substances, including allergens, which is critical in preventing allergic reactions.

Shorter washing times, such as 10 or 15 seconds, may not adequately cleanse your hands, potentially leaving residual allergens that could lead to cross-contamination. On the other hand, while 30 seconds allows for an even more thorough wash, it is generally longer than necessary and could lead to less compliance in handwashing practices. Therefore, 20 seconds strikes the right balance between thoroughness and practicality.