# How do I teach my autistic child to wash their hands?

> A picture sequence by the sink, a song for timing, and sensory tweaks for water and soap.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/handwashing-visual-steps
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-28

**Short answer:** Put a picture sequence at eye level by the sink: water on, wet hands, soap, rub for 20 seconds, rinse, water off, dry. Sing a short song for the scrubbing so your child knows when to stop, use a step stool so they can reach, and choose soap and water temperatures they tolerate. Practise at calm times, and give only as much help as needed.

**Key takeaways**
- Put **picture steps** at eye level by the sink.
- Use a **20-second song** for scrubbing.
- Try **foam or unscented** soap.
- A **step stool** makes it easier to reach.

## What are the steps?

| Step | Picture |
| --- | --- |
| 1 | Water on |
| 2 | Wet hands |
| 3 | Soap |
| 4 | Scrub for 20 seconds |
| 5 | Rinse |
| 6 | Water off |
| 7 | Dry hands |

The CDC recommends scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.[1] A picture sequence helps many children follow multi-step routines.[2]

## How do I teach it?

1. **Do it together**, pointing to each picture.
2. **Sing a song** during scrubbing.
3. **Step back a little** each time.
4. **Praise** each finished step.

**Try:**
- Foam or unscented soap
- A step stool
- Warm, not hot, water

**Skip:**
- Very hot water
- Strong-smelling soap
- Hand dryers if the noise is scary

**Hand dryers in public.** Many autistic children find public hand dryers very loud. Carry paper towels or a small towel.

Free printable: [Free printable: 5-step morning schedule](https://theautismkit.com/printables/morning-schedule.pdf)

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Put picture steps by the sink
- [ ] Pick a 20-second song
- [ ] Try foam or unscented soap

## Common questions

### How long should my child scrub?

The CDC suggests at least 20 seconds, about two rounds of 'Happy Birthday'.

### My child hates the feel of soap. What can I do?

Try foam soap, unscented soap, or a pump your child controls.

### Where should the pictures go?

At your child's eye level, right next to the sink, where they can see each step.

## Sources

1. CDC: Clean hands, when and how to wash your hands. https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html
2. AFIRM (UNC Frank Porter Graham): Visual supports evidence-based practice brief. https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/Visual-Supports-Brief-Packet.pdf

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.