Vox: How soap absolutely annihilates the coronavirus

While it is common knowledge that handwashing is important, especially during a time like this, most people are unaware of why, and how, handwashing gets rid of dirt, germs, and viruses. A virus’s outer layer is made up of oil and fat. When soap is applied, it has ends that are attracted to water and fat. These molecules attach themselves to the virus, ripping apart the layers of fat and dissolving it in the water once rinsed. 20 seconds is the proper time it takes for the molecules to successfully destroy these germs. While water temperature or type of soap is unimportant, it is important to remember to scrub your hands too – by doing so you are physically removing those germs from your hands and wrist. Read the full article here.