Does Dawn Antibacterial Soap Really Kill Germs?

Does it really live up to its promise?

Does Dawn Antibacterial Soap Really Kill Germs?
Photo by CDC / Unsplash

As the Ebola virus continues to spread, concerns about personal hygiene and the effectiveness of cleaning products have risen. One popular brand, Dawn Antibacterial Soap, claims to kill germs and bacteria on contact. But does it really live up to its promise?

How Does Antibacterial Soap Work?

Antibacterial soaps contain active ingredients, such as triclosan or triclocarban, that are designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. When used correctly, these soaps can reduce the amount of bacteria on the skin and prevent the spread of infection.

The Effectiveness of Dawn Antibacterial Soap

While Dawn Antibacterial Soap does contain active ingredients that can kill germs, it is important to note that it is not effective against all types of bacteria. In fact, some studies have shown that triclosan, the active ingredient in Dawn, is not effective against certain types of bacteria, including the Ebola virus.

Additionally, the effectiveness of any antibacterial soap depends on how it is used. In order to properly kill germs and bacteria, the soap must be used for at least 20 seconds and rinsed off thoroughly. If not used properly, the soap may not be effective at reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin.

The Risks of Antibacterial Soap

In addition to potentially not being effective against certain bacteria, there are also concerns about the long-term use of antibacterial soaps. Some studies have suggested that the overuse of these products can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making it more difficult to treat infections in the future.

Alternative Cleaning Methods

While antibacterial soaps can be effective at reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin, there are other cleaning methods that may be more effective against the Ebola virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using a disinfectant solution, such as a bleach solution, to clean surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with the Ebola virus.

Conclusion

While Dawn Antibacterial Soap may be effective at reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin, it is important to remember that it is not effective against all types of bacteria, including the Ebola virus. For the best protection against the Ebola virus, the CDC recommends using a disinfectant solution and practicing proper hand hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and water.

For more information on the Ebola virus, visit ebola-cases.com and blog.ebola-cases.com. Follow us on Twitter @ebola_cases for the latest updates and information.