Should You Use Antibacterial Soap?

Some products such as antibacterial hand sanitizers, toothbrushes and wipes are impregnated with Triclosan.  Easy-clean products with the ingredient "Microban" contain Triclosan.   Triclosan is a compound used to kill bacteria, but according to some scientists, it is also bad for the environment.
 
Triclosan ends up in lakes and streams by way of treated human waste water.  Up to 12% of the Triclosan converts into a dioxin;  the results may be disastrous for animals (and plants).  The reason is that the dioxins mimic the effects of natural hormones in animals, resulting in a disturbance in the animal's body formation.  This is an example of a harmless compound breaking down into harmful components over time.

In small quantities Triclosan isn't considered dangerous to humans but there is suspicion that it could potentially affect the human thyroid gland.  Scientists are also worried that antibacterial compounds may be acting like antibiotics, contributing to the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

According to experts, there in no need for antibacterial soap in the home and should only be used in hospitals.  In fact there is potential for more harm than good when used at home.  Triclosan requires at least two minutes to act on bacteria.  Most people don't apply soap on their hands for that length of time.

As a final note, never buy children's products containing Triclosan or Microban.