How should hands be dried after washing?

Using a clean disposable towel or an air dryer is the best practice for drying hands after washing. This method ensures that any remaining pathogens present on the skin are effectively removed. Disposable towels help prevent cross-contamination, as they are used only once and discarded. Additionally, air dryers can also be effective if they maintain a high air velocity, reducing the potential for microbial spread.

Utilizing reusable cloth towels can lead to the transfer of bacteria between individuals, as these towels may become contaminated over time if not properly sanitized. Air drying is not as reliable in removing pathogens and may take longer than using a towel. Shaking hands vigorously can spread germs instead of effectively drying them, thus defeating the purpose of washing hands for infection control.