The pre-procedure steps of handwashing include removing jewelry and rolling up sleeves. However, many organizations allow staff to wear wedding rings.

The hand washing procedure itself includes the following steps. First, cover cuts, if any, on hands with a waterproof dressing. Cuts and abrasions can become contaminated with bacteria hindering the ability to clean the area thoroughly. In addition, repeated hand washing can worsen an injury. The nails must be short and clean, without nail paint or artificial nails. Long and false nails and imperfections in nail polish harbor dirt and microorganisms that are not entirely removed by hand washing.

Next, turn on the taps and direct the water flow away from the drain. Run the water at a flow rate that prevents splashing. Drain openings are often contaminated with microorganisms that could be transferred to the environment or the user if splashing occurs.

Wet hands, and use enough soap to cover all surfaces. Soap applied directly onto dry hands may damage the skin.