Every season has its fair share of sneezes, coughs, and sniffles.  In such circumstances, we typically run straight to the bathroom to use the antibacterial hand soap.  On the contrary, experts are now saying that this could actually help aid us in catching germs.

Antibacterial products help ward off bacteria we may have been in contact with, but it does not work against viruses, which are what cause the flu and colds.  Experts are also seeing that, when used in abundance, antibacterial cleansers may make us more vulnerable to germs.  “Soaps and hand cleaners that contain triclosan or other antibacterial agents should be avoided, ” claims Dr. Christopher A. Ohl (associate professor of infectious diseases at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, NC), “These agents have been shown to pressure bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics and really are unnecessary.”

It is always very important to thoroughly wash your hands throughout the day.  However, you don’t have to break the bank by buying antibacterial soaps.  In order to kill most germs, scrub your hands with plain soap and hot water for 30 seconds.  “If soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand hygiene products are an alternative for adults and older children,” mentions Ohl.

If you want a really inexpensive and creative way to keep yourself free from germs, try making your own glycerin soap with our Melt and Pour Soap Bases and Soap Molds.  The Soap Making Video gives step by step instructions on how to make beautiful bars of soaps.  Or follow our Hand Sanitizer Recipe in our bog to make your own hand hygiene product.