Washing your hands is one of the most effective methods to prevent the spread of viruses. However, using an electric hand dryer in the toilet can be counterproductive. Are you wondering why?
Tl;dr
- Hand washing is crucial to preventing the spread of viruses.
- Electric hand dryers can suck in and release bacteria.
- Paper towels are recommended for drying hands.
Importance of hand washing
Handwashing is not only a fundamental act of cleanliness, but also an effective way to prevent the spread of viruses, as we have all learned during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, it should be noted that drying your hands is equally crucial, as wet hands increase the risk of bacteria transmission.
Electric hand dryers: illusory security?
Faced with the importance of drying hands, professionals have widely adopted the use of electric hand dryers in public places such as supermarkets, airports and cinemas. However, are these devices really effective in guaranteeing our protection against microbes and viruses? Research has found that these hand dryers could suck bacteria from the surrounding air and release it onto our freshly washed hands.
-Alarming studies
A 2021 study by the University of Cambridge showed that hand dryer users ended up with more bacteria on their hands than expected. Similarly, another research carried out in the United States at the University of Connecticut found that hot air from hand dryers promoted the proliferation of bacterial colonies.
What alternative for drying your hands?
Faced with these findings, it is recommended to favor traditional hand drying methods. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Drying your hands with paper towels not only dries them faster, but the friction also dislodges bacteria to leave them cleaner”. However, it is best to avoid cloth napkin dispensers which, due to their reuse, promote the transmission of germs.
