Cecille's Creativity

A review of 27 studies in Clinical Infectious Disease found that washing hands with either type of soap prevented routine childhood ailments, according to Jan Sheehan on her column in The Parents magazine, 2008, p.52. However, some experts are concerned that widespread use of triclosan, the active ingredient in antibacterial soaps, might lead germs to become resistant to antibiotics, she added. As a result, doctors advised to use liquid soap because germs can thrive on the icky residue that tends to collect on bar soap and in soap dishes. Regular washing of the hands with warm water for at least 20 seconds (the amount of time to sing the alphabet song) is also recommended.

On the other hand, hand sanitizers that contain alcohol are a good substitute in the absence of soap. So wherever you go, keep a bottle in your car and your purse.