What is the first step when washing your hands?

The first step in washing your hands is to wet your hands with running water. This initial action is crucial as it helps to loosen dirt, debris, and germs from the surfaces of your hands before soap is applied. Wetting the hands also prepares them to effectively lather when soap is introduced, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the handwashing process. Proper handwashing technique stresses the importance of starting with wet hands to ensure the soap can do its job effectively, leading to a more thorough cleaning.