Do you have to ritually wash your hands after using the bathroom?
Answer:
Hands must be washed after using the bathroom.
According to the strict halachah, there is no need for using a cup, or for washing three times, after entering and after using the bathroom. It is sufficient to clean one’s hands with water (Shulchan Aruch 165:1; Eliyah Rabbah 4:12; Rosh Kelal 4, no. 1; among others).
However, some authorities, such as the Chida, mention that it is good to wash three times after leaving the bathroom. Yet, even according to these authorities there is certainly no need to use a cup (see Minchas Yitzchak 5:96, who cites a number of sources on this question).
Best wishes.
In the sefer Living Halacha (R’ Gershon Meltzer), this halacha is discussed. It is a hiddur to wash three times with a kli. The Gra says whenever netila is mentioned, a kli is required.
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