What the research shows, in fact, is that Triclosan could let some germs survive - but trying to eradicate all the bacteria we encounter in daily life is neither possible nor desirable. Dr. John Carsley, head of the infectious disease unit at the Montreal regional public health department, takes a common-sense approach. We've seen the emergence of new bacteria, especially resistant bacteria, and the play this has got in the media has made people anxious about germs. There's no evidence that antibacterial products will protect you better from germs. In a household setting, says Carsley, regular, vigorous washing with soap and hot water is the best way to fight infection.
Soap dissolves the grease that lets bacteria stay on the hands.
If you need to disinfect further, the best agent is a diluted bleach solution, but we would only recommend this in a situation where you were doing something risky, like cutting up raw chicken for a party of 200 people. Liquid soap is more convenient, so it may be used more often, says Carsley, but bar soap is cheaper. You could use paper towels or single-use towels if you want. The level of risk in a family setting is minimal. Buy plain soap and use it frequently, says Carsley.