Handwashing and hygiene tips for kids
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on August 25, 2026.
Kids are naturally tactile. They touch toys, playground equipment, classroom supplies, pets, food, and nearly everything in their environment. While exposure to germs is a normal part of childhood, teaching kids hygiene habits can help reduce the spread of illness.
Good hygiene does not have to be complicated. With simple routines and age-appropriate reminders, children can learn how to practice good hygiene habits at any age.
Why handwashing is one of the most important habits you can teach your child
Kids' natural exploration of their environment increases their exposure to germs. Effective handwashing is one of the simplest ways to help reduce the spread of illnesses and keep everyone healthy.
Teaching handwashing to children early helps make it feel like a normal part of the day instead of a chore. Kids should learn to wash their hands throughout the day, especially around meals, bathroom breaks, outdoor play, time with pets or animals, and after being in shared spaces like school or playgrounds.
Proper handwashing steps for kids
The best handwashing tips for kids are simple, repeatable, and easy to remember. Walk your child through these simple steps until they can do them on their own. Being consistent with hygiene habits is crucial for their health.
Wet hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), and apply soap
Adding soap is important because water alone may not remove all germs.
Lather hands by rubbing them together with soap, making sure to get the backs of the hands, between the fingers, under the nails, and around the thumb
Show them how to cover every part of their hands with soap, not just their palms.
Scrub for at least 20 seconds—about as long as it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice
The amount of time matters. A song, a countdown, or a silly rhyme can make the timing easier for younger children.
Rinse hands thoroughly under clean, running water
Teach kids how to rinse away all the soap, including between their fingers.
Dry hands using a clean towel or air dryer
Drying matters because germs can spread more easily from wet hands than from dry hands.
Pro tip: make handwashing fun
Need some motivation? Kids are more likely to wash their hands when it feels fun. Try using colorful soap, a sticker chart, or songs. For younger kids, visual reminders near the sink can help, or you can model the behavior by washing your hands with them.
Beyond handwashing: other hygiene habits that help keep kids healthy
Handwashing is important, but it is only one piece of staying healthy. These additional hygiene tips for kids can help support them no matter the time of year, whether they are going back to school, at camp, or on winter or summer break.
Teach them to cover their coughs and sneezes
Encourage kids to cough or sneeze into their elbow or a tissue, then wash their hands.
Encourage bathing and oral hygiene
Regular baths or showers help keep skin clean, while brushing teeth twice a day supports oral hygiene.
Keep their personal items clean
Teach kids not to share water bottles, utensils, or toothbrushes. Backpacks, lunchboxes, sports gear, and favorite toys should be cleaned regularly.
Keep your hands away from your face
Try to teach kids to keep their hands away from their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs can get on their hands when they touch things, and touching the face can give those germs an easy way into the body.
How to encourage consistent hygiene habits
Consistency is key when it comes to hygiene. Connect handwashing to daily routines, such as before meals or after bathroom breaks, so they are easier to remember. Praise your child when they remember on their own.
When to seek medical help
Even with good hygiene habits, kids can still get sick. Consider medical care if your child is ill, especially with a high fever, trouble breathing, or other symptoms that don’t improve.
At urgent care, the providers can help evaluate common childhood illnesses and recommend next steps. To get started, find a center near you and walk in or save your spot online.
FAQs about handwashing for children
Here are some frequently asked questions about teaching kids about hygiene.
How often should my child wash their hands?
Children should wash their hands throughout the day, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, after coughing or sneezing, after playing outside, after touching pets, and when coming home from shared spaces with friends.
What are some fun ways to get my kids excited about handwashing?
Use songs, sticker charts, colorful soap, timers, or a reward system to make it fun.
Can handwashing prevent the flu in kids?
Handwashing can help reduce the spread of germs, including some viruses that cause respiratory illness. It is not a guarantee, but it is an important habit.
At what age can kids start learning proper handwashing?
Toddlers can start learning hygiene habits, and as they get older, they can learn to do more independently.
What other hygiene tips should I teach my kids?
Teach kids to cover coughs and sneezes, avoid sharing personal items, brush their teeth, bathe regularly, and keep school and sports items clean.
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