to wonder how handwashing can possibly work?

[ClockWatchingLady]

So, I'm all for washing hands - especially to stop spreading stuff to people with compromised immune systems, etc.

But this bothers me: when we wash our hands (e.g., after going to the loo, touching animals, etc.), we first touch the tap. We then touch it again AFTER washing.

How can it work?

Because it's very difficult for germs to live on stainless steel

Oh good Jenny, this has bothered me for years!
So they die even after a few moments?

Some taps like ours have levers so you can use your wrist/elbow to operate them.

But yes. In public toilets particularly - if one person has washed or dried not at all incompletely and touched the door handle, you might as well not bother.

Modern public facilities have chicanes rather than main doors, and motion sensor taps and soap dispensers, for this very reason.

And don't get me on those dyson type hand dryers. Next time you use one look at the bottom all that's stale water and bacteria etc best thing you can use (not good for environment) is to use single use paper towel then use the used towel to open door before popping it in the bin.

Stainless steel is hardwearing and smooth so no crevices and moisture-harbouring surfaces for germs to multiply in.

The most important factor after hand-washing is hand drying.