The Science of Soap

Most viruses have an outer layer made up of lipids, more commonly known as fat. Water alone tends to wick off the fat, but soap will dissolve it. Soap and alcohol are great for dissolving that fatty outer layer. Think of them as the superheroes of the germ world.

Germs: The Struggle is Real

It comes down to how soap molecules are formed. One end bonds with water, and the tail end rejects it, seeking out oil and fatty-like tissue. Like a magnet, the tail tries to push away from the water and attaches itself to the fatty outer layer of the virus, trying to pry itself into it like a spearhead. Once the virus is broken open, it spills into the soapy water and dies.

Now, who knew there was so much drama involved in washing your hands?

The Science of Scrubbing

Water and scrubbing are important because they cause the sudsy bubbles to form, which is what causes the bacteria, viruses and other germs to attach themselves to the suds. Warm water bubbles and foams quicker than cold. While you can use cold water, you’ll need to wash for about 15 more seconds.

Washing for 20 seconds (with warm water, 30-35 seconds with cold) allows for this germ-obliteration to take place. Building up bubbles and washing every surface of your hands, trapping all germs in the soap molecules. Then as you rinse, the foam, along with bacteria and viruses, are washed away down the drain.

Now that you have the science behind hand washing down pat, you can understand how important it can be to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Be mindful of what you touch and wash your hands often. It’s a tried-and-true way to stop the spread of this horrific virus.

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