I think how much you wash yourself should be dependent on how old you are, where you live, and whether you really need it or not. When we were little kids we only took baths once a week on Saturday nights, or for special events. I know someone who says she only takes showers every other day in the winter, and every day in the summer. If you don't bathe, just make sure to wash your face anyway, especially in the summer.
That being said, I do think cleanliness is important...but I don't think it's the end of the world if the person next to me smells like himself instead of cologne or tons of soap or perfume or such. What do you think happens if you work like a horse all day long? You might smell a little different than Old Spice. That's just the way it is. Of course, if you are a dentist, doctor, or have another job where you will work around people in close quarters, it would be rather advisable to bathe at least once a day.
Handwashing is preferable of course for making meals, petting animals, etc. That could possibly include dogs and cats too...the stuff they eat sometimes (or roll in) is just....
I feel more comfortable petting my chickens and Tommy M'Lad the Narragansett Turkey Tom. They are birds and cleaner.
A time you DON'T need to wash your hands before eating might be when eating out of your garden. Just pick a beautifully ripe cherry tomato, brush off some of the dirt, and pop into your mouth. A little dirt? Sure. But hey, a little dose of germs is good for you. (I'm not referring to public restrooms here...they are just reservoirs of filth waiting to break loose....)
I'm sorry, I just can't share food or utencil's with anything that has to use it's tongue to clean it's own butt!
