Keeping cuts and scrapes clean and covered may help them heal better and keep them from getting infected.

Be sure to wash your hands before you apply or change a bandage.

This may help prevent infection too.

Wash the injured area twice a day with soap and water.

But don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, because they can slow healing.

Pat the area dry with a clean cloth.

Then, use a nonstick bandage if you have one.

Anytime your bandage gets wet or dirty, take it off, clean the wound again, and put on a new bandage.

If your bandage sticks to the wound, try soaking it in a little warm water before you take it off.

And call your doctor if you see any signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness near the wound.

Call if you have red streaks leading from the wound, pus draining from the wound, or a fever.

With good care, your injury should get better soon.