When to use antibacterial cleaners

Since the advent of antibacterial soap, millions of people have been using it faithfully and depending on it to kill germs and keep them healthy.From school children to sanitation workers to those in the food service industry, and the rest of us who just want to keep our kitchens and bathrooms clean, antibacterial soap pumps have become a permanent fixture next to our sinks and wash areas.We use them to wash our hands, clean dishes, and wipe down the surrounding areas.We've extended to using them in bathtubs, on the commode, and even in our laundry.

Yet recent studies are showing that more often than not, antibacterial soaps are unnecessary.Many of our illnesses and colds are due to viruses, not bacteria, so it's a matter of simply keeping our hands and utensils clean; it isn't the type of cleaner that matters.Vigorous scrubbing and rubbing with regular soap is sufficient.Studies suggest that too frequent use of antibacterials can actually create a germ-free environment, robbing young children of the chance to build up their immune systems, and breaking down the immune systems of those of us who are healthy.Plus, repeated use of antibacterial soap around sinks, in kitchens, and in bathrooms, may actually contribute to the manifestation of more resistant bacteria, and thus, heartier, tougher germs.Doctors have seen this in the use of antibiotics on illnesses.If used too frequently, the germs mutate and adapt, thus becoming even harder to kill.On a different level, antibacterial soaps are made with a mild pesticide.If not rinsed off immediately, they are irritating to the skin and eyes, and very harmful if ingested.

So when do we use antibacterial soaps?For regular cleaning around the house, they are unnecessary.To keep you and your home clean, and to prevent infections, regular soap is fine.Wash hands often and keep surfaces, appliances, and utensils clean and dry.If a member of the household is ill, then antibacterials might be used temporarily.In addition to washing hands often, an alcohol based hand-sanitizer can be helpful.Hospitals use antibacterial products regularly, and they may be required in the home for patients just released from the hospital.Also use antibacterials for someone with a urinary tract infection or diarrhea, or in the case of an auto immune deficiency.

Ultimately, cleanliness is key.Antibacterial soaps and cleaners are wonderful discoveries and necessary products in our world of fast-spreading diseases.But for a healthy individual who cleans regularly, soap and water will do just fine.