What is the correct method of drying hands after washing them?

Using a clean towel or paper towel, or air drying, is the correct method of drying hands after washing them because it effectively removes any remaining moisture and minimizes the risk of cross-contamination. Proper hand drying is essential in food safety as wet hands can spread bacteria and contaminants.

Clean towels and paper towels provide a reliable means to absorb water quickly and effectively, while air drying is also acceptable if it occurs in a clean environment. The use of clean drying methods ensures that hands are kept hygienic, which is crucial in a food handling context.

Other methods, such as wiping hands on a dishcloth or letting them air dry without assistance, can present risks. A dishcloth may harbor bacteria if not regularly cleaned, and leaving hands to air dry without any method may allow pathogens to transfer from surfaces back onto the hands. Waving hands until dry is inefficient and does not adequately remove moisture or contaminants, which could lead to food safety hazards.