The frequency of handwashing with hand soap depends on your activities and potential exposure to germs and contaminants. In general, it is recommended to wash your hands with hand soap at the following key times:

1. Before eating or preparing food: Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling food to prevent the transfer of germs from your hands to your food.

2. After using the restroom: After using the toilet, it's crucial to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any harmful bacteria and prevent the spread of infections.

3. After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose: If you cover your mouth or nose with your hands when you cough or sneeze, make sure to wash your hands immediately afterward to avoid spreading germs to others.

4. After touching high-contact surfaces: Wash your hands after touching surfaces that many people come into contact with, such as doorknobs, handrails, or shared electronic devices.

5. After being in public places: If you've been in crowded areas or public transportation, washing your hands upon returning home can help remove any potential germs you may have picked up.

6. After handling garbage: Discard garbage and wash your hands afterward to avoid contaminating your hands with harmful bacteria.

7. Whenever your hands are visibly dirty: If your hands are visibly soiled, it's essential to wash them with soap and water to remove dirt, grime, and germs effectively.

In addition to these key times, it's a good practice to wash your hands whenever you feel they may have come into contact with potentially contaminated surfaces or after activities that involve close interaction with others.

Proper handwashing with soap and water typically takes about 20 seconds, so try to follow this guideline for thorough cleaning. If soap and water are not readily available, you can use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol as a temporary alternative until you can wash your hands properly.