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Antibacterial Soaps
 The Issue
Triclosan is the most common chemical in antibacterial soaps and related products such as toothpaste, laundry detergents, and all-purpose cleaners. A registered pesticide and endocrine disrupter, it can become toxic to fish in South San Francisco Bay. As triclosan enters our environment it can contribute to the growing problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics.
According to the Center for Disease control and the American Medical Association, there is no demonstrated benefit of antibacterial soaps over plain soap in protecting people from germs.
What You Can Do
Use plain soap and warm water, with vigorous scrubbing for 15-20 seconds, to fight germs on the hands.
Read the label! Use alternative products such as:
- Pure glycerin, castile, or vegetable-based soap.
- Hand-sanitizing gels with at least 60% alcohol or peroxide base
- Less toxic products without synthetic perfumes, dyes, or synthetic petroleum compounds.
Resources
To learn more and to find alternative products, visit:
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