Background:
Hand washing with soap and clean water is a key infection control method in schools, preventing the spread of communicable diseases. In Jordan, many students face a high risk of illness and educational disruption due to inadequate sanitation facilities in schools.

Purpose:
This study aimed to evaluate hand-washing practices and identify barriers among Jordanian students aged 9–15 in public and private schools in Amman governorate.

Methods:
A correlational cross-sectional design was used. Students aged 9–15 were selected via multistage stratified random sampling. Data were collected using WHO and UNICEF tools, a hand-washing barriers questionnaire, and the WHO checklist. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, t-tests, and hierarchical regression.

Results:
Among 288 students, hand-washing practices were moderate. Five barriers negatively correlated with hand-washing scores (p < .001). Gender, school type, household size, and parental education were significantly related to hand-washing behavior (p < .005 to < .001). A significant difference existed between public and private schools (p < .001). Regression analysis showed that lack of time, poor or absent facilities, gender, and school type were key predictors.

Conclusion:
Private school students practiced hand washing more effectively. Barriers and sociodemographic factors significantly influenced hand-washing behavior. Interventions should target improved facilities and education to enhance hygiene practices in schools.