As the weather warms up, everyone wants to spend more time outside enjoying all the offerings of the season, including trips to the beach, park, local fairs and festivals. Maybe even a night or two camping in the great outdoors.

While nothing is better than relaxing outdoors with friends and family, don’t be tempted by all the “leisure time” to skip proper handwashing.

Public beaches and parks may not have well stocked or clan bathrooms, and if they do, they always seem to be located far away from where you have set up your blanket and umbrella.

“Don’t worry,” says Nancy Bock, senior vice president, Consumer Education at the American Cleaning Institute. “It’s still easy to keep your family’s hand clean, even on the longest of summer outings, as long as you’ve packed the right stuff.”

Just follow these simple tips to keep clean:

• Stock your bag with a “clean kit” containing hand sanitizer, gel, or a package of hand wipes, and if you’re going to the beach, a small container of baby powder to help get the sand off fingers and toes.

• Keep one kit in the car and another in your carry-on bag if traveling by plane or train (Just remember:  If you are traveling by plane, you can only carry on containers of 3-ounces or less).

• Use the sanitizer and / or wipes before eating or drinking, even if you have just taken a dip in the lake or ocean.

• If kids are going to have a snack after spending time in the car, hand them a wipe first.

• Always remember to clean your hands first with the sanitizer or wipes before taking food out of the cooler.

• There are varieties of wipes on the market, so be sure to read the label and use products as directed.  Not only is it important to use these products frequently, but it’s also key to use them correctly.  The best way to use a hand sanitizer is to use one or two squirts of the product, and then rub your hands together vigorously, including the front and back, between fingers, and around, and under your nails until your hands are dry.  Do this for yourself, as well as for children not old enough to clean their own hands.

If using wipes, wipe all areas of your hands until they are visibly clean, using as many wipes as necessary.  Do this before eating even if hands do not appear dirty. Dispose of used wipes in an appropriate trash container, and let your hands air-dry. Then feel free to unpack your picnic or pick up that burger and enjoy!

If you’re lucky enough that your beach, park or favorite summer retreat has restrooms with running water and soap, be sure to wash hands frequently throughout the day – again, taking special care before eating.  To ensure a thorough handwashing, follow these simple steps:

1. Wet hands with clean, running water and apply soap

2. Rub hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds – if you hum “Happy Birthday to You” twice, that should do it.

3. Rinse hands under running water

4. Dry hands using a clean paper towel.

5. Turn off the water using the paper towel instead of bare hands

6. Use the paper towel to open the door and discard the towel in the trash.