which hand hygiene procedure has superior microbicidal activity

"Which Hand Hygiene Method Kills Germs Best?"

By Mark KingDecember 6, 2025

Hand hygiene is a cornerstone of infection prevention, and the choice of hand hygiene procedure can significantly impact its microbicidal activity. This article explores the superiority of different hand hygiene procedures, focusing on alcohol-based hand sanitizers and traditional soap and water washing.

Understanding Microbicidal Activity

Microbicidal activity refers to the ability of a substance to kill microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In the context of hand hygiene, a superior microbicidal activity means the procedure effectively inactivates or removes a broader spectrum of pathogens in a shorter time.

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers: The Gold Standard

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHS) containing at least 60% alcohol are recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the preferred method for hand hygiene in healthcare settings. Their superiority lies in their rapid microbicidal activity and broad-spectrum efficacy.

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Rapid Action: ABHS can inactivate pathogens within 15-30 seconds, making them ideal for situations where soap and water are not readily available.
Broad Spectrum Efficacy: ABHS are effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They are particularly effective against norovirus, which is resistant to many other disinfectants.
User-Friendly: ABHS are easy to use and require no water or towels, making them convenient for use in various settings.

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers vs. Soap and Water

While ABHS offer numerous advantages, soap and water washing remain an essential component of hand hygiene, particularly when hands are visibly soiled or contaminated with bodily fluids. However, several studies have shown that ABHS have superior microbicidal activity compared to soap and water.

Hand Hygiene Procedure	Time to Microbial Reduction	Effectiveness Against Norovirus
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (60% alcohol)	15-30 seconds	Yes
Soap and water washing (with proper technique)	40-60 seconds	No

Foam Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers: A Novel Approach

Foam alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a newer formulation that offers some advantages over traditional gel or liquid sanitizers. Foam sanitizers can be applied quickly and evenly, reducing the risk of missing areas of the hand. They also dry faster, reducing the risk of contamination from wet hands. However, more research is needed to determine if foam sanitizers have superior microbicidal activity compared to traditional ABHS.

Florence Nightingale and a hand hygiene activity

an image of a hand with different types of germs on it

Proper Technique: The Key to Effective Hand Hygiene

Regardless of the hand hygiene procedure chosen, proper technique is crucial for maximizing microbicidal activity. This includes using the correct amount of product, covering all surfaces of the hands, and rubbing hands together for the recommended duration. Healthcare providers and other personnel should receive regular training on proper hand hygiene technique to ensure consistent and effective hand hygiene practices.

In conclusion, while both alcohol-based hand sanitizers and soap and water washing play crucial roles in hand hygiene, alcohol-based hand sanitizers demonstrate superior microbicidal activity, particularly against norovirus and in situations where soap and water are not readily available. However, the choice of hand hygiene procedure should be guided by the specific situation, the level of hand contamination, and local policies and guidelines.