A composition can indicate whether hands have been washed for an approximate predetermined period of time. The composition includes a pH indicator and a delivery system. The delivery system contains a pH-altering compound. The delivery system is added to the pH indicator approximately when hand washing begins. A method of washing hands is also presented. The pH indicator is applied to the hands. The delivery system is applied to the hands approximately when hand washing begins. The pH indicator and delivery system are mixed. A system for washing hands is also presented. The system includes a pH indicator, a delivery system, and a dispenser that releases the pH indicator and delivery system to hands. The hands are washed until the pH indicator changes color.