During handwashing, what is the main purpose of friction?

The main purpose of friction during handwashing is to remove dirt and pathogens from the skin. When hands are rubbed together vigorously, the mechanical action of friction helps to dislodge particles, oils, and microorganisms that may be present on the skin’s surface. This action is crucial in breaking down biofilms and other contaminants that may not be washed away just by running water alone. The effectiveness of handwashing in preventing the spread of infections heavily relies on this physical process, making it a vital component of proper hygiene practice.

While making hands feel clean, speeding up the process, and assisting water flow are all outcomes of proper handwashing techniques, the primary mechanism that ensures the removal of harmful entities is indeed the friction created through rubbing the hands together. This highlights the importance of technique in effective handwashing as part of infection prevention strategies.