When we are young, we are taught to watch our hands often and well. We make it a part of our daily routine because that is what we were taught in school and at home. Handwashing is very easy to do and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of many types of infection and illness. This week is National Handwashing Awareness Week, with a goal of decreasing the spread of infectious diseases by empowering individuals to educate and help protect their communities.
But with 85% of American homes finding themselves dealing with hard water, or water that is high in mineral content, many people are suffering from irritation due to washing their hands frequently with hard water. Although hard water is not dangerous for humans, we can actually be left with a layer of soap scum on our bodies. It can clog pores, cause dry skin, irritation and breakouts. The problem with hard water is that its high mineral content prevents it from properly reacting with soap and, instead of triggering a lather, it creates a soapy layer on the skin. This not only clogs pores, but also irritates the skin, making it itchy, flaky and dry.
There’s also a correlation between hard water and skin disorders, like eczema. In fact, according to Self Magazine, research at the University of Nottingham found that, out of over 7,500 school-age children, eczema was significantly more common for those living in hard water areas than those living in soft water areas.
A water softener can alleviate many of the burdens that hard water can cause your home, including irritated skin and hands. For example, you will protect your pipes and appliances, see brighter laundry, have shiny and more manageable hair, your dishes will sparkle, you will use up to 30% less energy and you may save up to 80% on soaps and detergents. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community, so washing your hands frequently is vital. A water softener is well worth it. Contact us today to see the many benefits a water softener can bring.
