Antibacterial hand soap may seem like the best choice for fighting off germs such as bacteria and viruses. However, numerous studies have shown that regular, non-antibacterial soap is just as effective in washing away these germs—without the added health concerns associated with antibacterial products. In fact, some research even suggests that antibacterial soaps might do more harm than good.
Are Non-Antibacterial Soaps Effective?
Yes. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), everyday hand soaps without antibacterial agents are effective in removing bacteria and viruses. Washing your hands with plain soap and water remains one of the most reliable methods to help prevent illness and reduce the spread of germs.
“Wash your hands with plain soap and water. That’s still one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and prevent spreading germs.”
— FDA
How To Use Non-Antibacterial Soaps Effectively
Scientific studies support that non-antibacterial soaps are highly effective at eliminating germs when used correctly [1]. The key factor in proper hand hygiene isn’t the antibacterial ingredients—it’s how you wash your hands.
Here’s the recommended method:
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Start by running your hands under warm water.
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Apply soap and lather thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
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Scrub all parts of your hands—palms, backs, between fingers, and under fingernails.
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Rinse well with warm water.
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Dry using a clean towel or let your hands air dry.
This technique allows the soap’s surfactants to break down and wash away germs effectively. According to the FDA, this is the most reliable way to protect yourself from harmful microbes [2].
Cozycache’s Foaming Hand Soaps
At cozycache, our hand soaps are formulated without any antibacterial or disinfecting agents. Instead, we rely on plant-based surfactants that lift and wash away bacteria and viruses naturally. What truly matters is not whether a soap is labelled ‘antibacterial’, but how well you use it.
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References:
[1] Burton, Maxine, et al. “The Effect of Handwashing with Water or Soap on Bacterial Contamination of Hands.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 8, no. 1, 2011, pp. 97–104. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph8010097
[2] FDA. “Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It, Use Plain Soap and Water.” May 1, 2020. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/antibacterial-soap-you-can-skip-it-use-plain-soap-and-water